*”They drew first blood, not him.”*

*First Blood* is the explosive beginning of the legendary Rambo franchise, blending intense action with a thought-provoking story about survival, trauma, and the mistreatment of veterans. Directed by Ted Kotcheff and starring Sylvester Stallone in his career-defining role as John Rambo, this film is a gripping exploration of a man pushed to his limits.

The story follows Rambo, a Vietnam War veteran, who drifts into a small town in search of an old comrade. When he’s mistreated and provoked by the local sheriff (Brian Dennehy), Rambo’s survival instincts kick in, leading to a one-man war against an entire police force. As the situation escalates, the film sheds light on Rambo’s inner turmoil and the scars of war he carries.

The film’s pacing is relentless, with Stallone delivering a nuanced performance that combines raw physicality with emotional depth. The action sequences, set against the rugged wilderness, are expertly crafted, making every moment tense and visceral. At its core, *First Blood* isn’t just an action movie—it’s a story about alienation, resilience, and the struggles of reintegration faced by those who’ve seen war.

*Why watch?* *First Blood* is an action classic that delivers thrills while offering a poignant commentary on the human cost of war.