Noah Centineo has been cast as a young John Rambo in an upcoming prequel film, tentatively titled "John Rambo." The movie will delve into the character's formative experiences during the Vietnam War, setting the stage for his introduction in the 1982 film "First Blood." Finnish director Jalmari Helander, recognized for his work on "Sisu" and "Rare Exports," will direct the project, with Rory Haines and Sohrab Noshirvani, who collaborated on "Black Adam," writing the screenplay. Filming is slated to begin in early 2026 in Thailand, which will stand in for Vietnam. Lionsgate is reportedly in negotiations for distribution rights, continuing their involvement with the franchise, which has grossed over $800 million worldwide across its five previous films. Sylvester Stallone, the original Rambo, is aware of the project but not involved in its production.
Centineo's casting, following his recent roles in Netflix's "The Recruit" and the film "Warfare," has generated interest, with his recent work suggesting a capacity for more intense performances. The prequel aims to explore the psychological and physical journey that shaped Rambo into the tormented veteran audiences first encountered. Helander's directorial style, known for visceral action and unique storytelling, is expected to offer a fresh perspective on the character's origins, emphasizing the resilience and adaptability that defined his survivalist nature. The film's focus on the Vietnam War era promises a gritty and authentic backdrop, examining the complexities faced by soldiers during that tumultuous period and the challenges of reintegration into civilian life.