(Image Source: Orion Pictures)
The "First Blood" franchise announced earlier this year that a prequel film, "John Rambo," is in the works. Last month, Noah Centineo was cast to portray a younger version of Rambo. However, long before "John Rambo" was greenlit, "original Rambo" Sylvester Stallone had his own plans to star in a prequel.
Stallone, currently promoting his newly released memoir "The Steps," recently discussed his alternative prequel concept in interviews with The Playlist and Screen Rant.
(Image Source: Orion Pictures)
Stallone revealed that several years ago, he pitched an idea to use AI technology to de-age himself to 18, allowing him to personally play Rambo during his young days in the Vietnam War. "Everyone thought I was crazy at the time," Stallone stated. "But AI is now advanced enough to go through Saigon and show Rambo at 18, essentially using the same imagery, so it wouldn't be too difficult."
Audiences generally consider Stallone and Rambo to be inextricably linked, making it potentially difficult for a new actor to take over the role. Stallone himself agrees with this sentiment. "It's really tough," he acknowledged. "He might do a great job, but there are still challenges to overcome, as I experienced with 'Get Carter' [a remake of the British gangster film starring Michael Caine]. Everyone loves the original, and you always have to fight against that prejudice." Stallone likened the challenge to playing "the son of Tarzan" or "the son of King Kong."
(Image Source: MGM)
Stallone also shared his original prequel storyline, admitting that it would conflict with Rambo's previously established background, and he wanted to rewrite it. "I wanted Rambo to be the kindest guy in school, the valedictorian, the prom king, that kind of character," he explained. "When he went to Vietnam, he thought it was just a simple three-week assignment, but then you'd see him tortured, captured, witness his friends being killed. His life in Saigon was one disaster after another, and that's how Rambo became who he is now. But initially, Rambo was just a fun-loving guy. I wanted to say, 'We can use AI to film this.' But we waited too long, and eventually, they took over. And I hope... you know... I wish them good luck."
Beyond "First Blood," the behind-the-scenes story of Stallone's other iconic work, "Rocky," is also being adapted into a film. This project also features a younger actor portraying Stallone in his youth, a development Stallone expressed surprise about, emphasizing his complete lack of involvement in the production.
via： The Playlist Screen Rant