Sylvester Stallone’s iconic 80s motion sequel airs on ITV4 tonight and followers can not help however examine it to the primary traditional movie within the collection
Film fans will be delighted to catch this American masterpiece gracing their screens this evening as they look back fondly on the Hollywood legend’s earlier cinematic ventures.
ITV is broadcasting the follow-up film, Rambo: First Blood Part II, which served as the second chapter in the iconic 80s Rambo franchise, featuring none other than Sylvester Stallone in the lead role.
It remains a defining series of that decade, transforming the Vietnam War veteran protagonist into a cultural phenomenon, complete with distinctive flair and memorable catchphrases that epitomise 80s nostalgia.
Indeed, one Rotten Tomatoes critic described it as an “entertaining guilty pleasure”. They added: “Not nearly as good as the original, but arguably more iconic. This is arguably what most people think of when they hear the name Rambo (myself included when I was a kid).”
Arriving three years following the debut film, this sequel elevates the narrative to fresh peaks. Whilst Rambo languishes behind bars, he receives an irresistible proposition from his former commander Col. Trautman, portrayed by Richard Crenna, promising to wipe his slate clean upon completion.
The mission requires him to venture into Vietnam in pursuit of American prisoners of war – certainly no straightforward task. He commits to avoiding confrontation and executing the assignment with minimal fuss, yet those pulling the strings appear to harbour different intentions.
When he learns that someone dear to him has been slaughtered by American troops, that vow is swiftly abandoned. Before long, Rambo is wreaking havoc and reverting to his brutal methods, as he decides to settle scores personally.
The movie hit cinemas in the same year as Rocky IV and showcased Stallone at his peak, dominating these massive action blockbusters. Countless admirers of the flick remember his performance as ‘incredible’ as they persist in lauding his work in this picture decades on.
One review said: “Rambo II shows a seemingly basic history, but it evolves well, and with the special touch of action, just like Rambo fans like. It’s a movie for the fans not only because of Rambo, but also because of Sylvester Stallone’s incredible acting.”
Another review adds: “With some spectacular action sequences, some of the best onscreen explosions ever, some pretty enjoyable characters, a great jungle setting, and a lot of cheesy entertainment value to be had, Rambo: First Blood Part II is a classic 80s action movie.”
One film fan said: “This film was fantastic and emotionally moving and kept you on the edge of your seat. In the same manner as First Blood Part I, it built perfectly on the role of John Rambo, who he was and what he could do.”
You can watch this guilty pleasure action flick on your telly tonight, as it’s scheduled to broadcast on ITV4 at 9pm. Otherwise, the film is ready to stream on both ITVX and Amazon Prime.
