Prepare to make a body count in an action film again. An upcoming movie John Rambo is set to be a prequel to the 1982 action classic “First Blood”, exploring the origins of one of cinema’s most iconic action heroes, is said to be in the works. According to Deadline, the project is being developed by Millennium Media, a studio known for franchises such as “The Expendables” and “Has Fallen”. The film is currently being introduced at the Cannes market, where it is seeking distribution and funding.

Finnish director Jalmari Helander, known for “Rare Exports,” “Big Game,” and “Sisu,” has been chosen to helm the project. The screenplay is being written by Rory Haines and Sohrab Noshirvani, who previously worked on “Black Adam” and “The Mauritanian.” The film aims to provide a fresh perspective on John Rambo’s early years, particularly his experiences during the Vietnam War.

While the plot details remain undisclosed, the film is expected to delve into Rambo’s transformation from a young soldier into the hardened warrior seen in “First Blood.” The casting process is currently in its early stages, with producers searching for an actor to portray the younger version of Rambo. Sylvester Stallone, who originally brought the character to life, is aware of the project but is not currently involved.

The Rambo franchise, based on David Morrell’s novel First Blood, has been a significant part of action cinema for decades. The original film depicted Rambo as a troubled Vietnam War veteran facing hostility from law enforcement, leading to an intense survival battle. Over the years, the franchise has expanded with multiple sequels, generating over $800 million worldwide.

The most recent instalment, “Rambo: Last Blood” (2019), was produced by Millennium Media and Stallone’s Balboa Productions. It grossed $92 million at the box office but received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. The upcoming prequel aims to reinvigorate the franchise by exploring Rambo’s formative years and providing a deeper understanding of his character.

Helander has expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating that he has been a fan of Rambo since childhood. He views the opportunity to direct John Rambo as a surreal experience and is eager to bring the character back to the big screen. Millennium Media President Jonathan Yunger has also emphasized the film’s potential to appeal to both longtime fans and new audiences.

Filming is scheduled to begin in October in Thailand, a location that aligns with the film’s Vietnam War setting. The production team includes Kevin King-Templeton, Les Weldon, Jonathan Yunger, and Avi Lerner, with executive producers Trevor Short, Dallas Sonnier, and Amanda Presmyk. The involvement of experienced producers suggests a strong commitment to delivering a high-quality action film.

The decision to create a prequel rather than another sequel reflects a shift in focus for the franchise. By exploring Rambo’s past, the film has the potential to provide a fresh narrative while maintaining the intense action and emotional depth that fans expect. The success of John Rambo will likely depend on its ability to balance nostalgia with innovation.

As the project moves forward, further details regarding casting, plot, and production will emerge. Fans of the Rambo series will be watching closely to see how this new chapter unfolds and whether it successfully expands the legacy of John Rambo (and the body count).