What is Sylvester Stallone's interpretation of John Rambo's character?

Sylvester Stallone believes the character John Rambo, particularly in "First Blood," may have been on the autism spectrum, citing his difficulties in coping and expressing emotions due to war trauma.

How did Sylvester Stallone change the "First Blood" script?

Stallone rewrote the original script, transforming John Rambo from a homicidal maniac into a character who actively tries to avoid violence, only reacting when provoked.

Why does Stallone consider "First Blood" his best action movie?

Stallone views "First Blood" as his best action movie because he defines 'action' by acting technique and physical performance, rather than solely by combat and explosions.

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Stallone: First Blood's Rambo was autistic

25 Jan

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Summary

Sylvester Stallone believes Rambo's character traits suggest autism.
He controversially rewrote First Blood's script, avoiding a violent depiction.
Stallone considers First Blood his best action movie due to acting technique.

Stallone: First Blood's Rambo was autistic

Sylvester Stallone recently shared his perspective on the character John Rambo, portraying him as potentially on the autism spectrum. Stallone believes Rambo's difficulties in coping and expressing emotions stemmed from this, especially following his traumatic Vietnam War experiences.

Stallone revealed he significantly altered the initial "First Blood" script. The original draft depicted Rambo as a homicidal maniac; Stallone rewrote it to present Rambo as someone who attempts to avoid violence, only resorting to it when provoked by the town's sheriff.

He considers the 1982 film "First Blood" his best action movie, defining "action" by acting technique rather than just fight sequences. Stallone’s subdued performance conveyed Rambo’s trauma through physicality and expression, a stark contrast to the character's later more explosive portrayals.