The iconic Rambo action franchise, immortalized by Sylvester Stallone, will gain a new chapter with a surprising casting change. Noah Centineo, known for romantic roles in Netflix films like To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before, has been chosen to portray a young John Rambo in a prequel exploring the character’s origins during the Vietnam War. Directed by Finnish filmmaker Jalmari Helander, the film is set to begin shooting in 2026 in Thailand, under Millennium Media’s production. Stallone, who starred in five films in the series between 1982 and 2019, will not participate in the project, though he is aware of its development. Centineo’s casting marks a bold shift, bringing a fresh face to one of action cinema’s greatest symbols. The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among fans, who are eager to see how the actor will fare in such an iconic role.
Centineo’s selection, a 29-year-old actor tied to romantic comedies, surprised both audiences and critics. The new film, tentatively titled John Rambo, promises to delve into the experiences that shaped the war veteran, focusing on his youth and traumas in the Vietnam War. The production aims to attract both longtime fans and a new generation of viewers.
- New lead: Noah Centineo replaces Sylvester Stallone in the starring role.
- Director: Jalmari Helander, known for the action film Sisu, helms the project.
- Setting: Filming will take place in Thailand, depicting the Vietnam of the 1960s and 1970s.
Surprising choice of Noah Centineo
Noah Centineo’s casting as John Rambo caught many by surprise, given his association with lighthearted roles in films like The Perfect Date and Sierra Burgess Is a Loser. Recently, he has ventured into more serious roles, such as in War Time (2024), where he played a soldier in the Iraq War, directed by Alex Garland. This shift may have been a key factor in his casting, signaling his readiness for more intense roles.
The choice contrasts sharply with Sylvester Stallone’s profile, whose physical presence and dramatic intensity defined Rambo as an action icon. Centineo, with his youthful heartthrob image, faces the challenge of reinterpreting the character without losing the essence of the battle-scarred soldier. The production is banking on his popularity among younger audiences to refresh the franchise.
- Centineo’s career: Actor rose to fame in Netflix romantic comedies.
- New challenge: Rambo role demands a more physical and dramatic approach.
- Expectations: Fans question whether Centineo can honor Stallone’s legacy.
- Prior experience: Role in War Time showcases actor’s versatility.
Direction and production of the new Rambo
The film will be directed by Jalmari Helander, a Finnish filmmaker recognized for the action thriller Sisu (2022), which impressed with its stylized violence and engaging narrative. Helander brings a unique vision to the project, promising an approach that blends visceral action with emotional depth. The screenplay, written by Rory Haines and Sohrab Noshirvani, known for Black Adam (2022), will focus on Rambo’s formation as a soldier, exploring his Vietnam War experiences.
Millennium Media, the production company behind hits like The Expendables, is leading the project. Jonathan Yunger, the company’s president, emphasized the intent to honor the franchise while introducing it to new audiences. Filming, set to begin in October 2026, will use Thailand as the primary location, recreating the war setting.
Sylvester Stallone, now 79, has chosen to step away from the project. However, producers have indicated openness to including him in a supporting role if a suitable opportunity arises.
Sylvester Stallone’s legacy in the franchise
Sylvester Stallone turned John Rambo into a cultural symbol across five films: First Blood (1982), Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985), Rambo III (1988), Rambo (2008), and Rambo: Last Blood (2019). The franchise grossed over $800 million at the global box office, cementing Rambo as one of cinema’s greatest action heroes.
Stallone not only starred but also directed and wrote some of the films, shaping the character’s narrative. In First Blood, audiences met a war veteran grappling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), while later films embraced a more explosive, action-driven tone. Despite mixed reviews for the final film, Rambo: Last Blood, the franchise retains a loyal fanbase.
- First appearance: First Blood premiered in 1982.
- Biggest success: Rambo: First Blood Part II was the series’ highest-grossing film.
- Final chapter: Rambo: Last Blood (2019) marked Stallone’s farewell.
- Cultural impact: Rambo inspired games, comics, and pop culture references.
Fan reactions and expectations
The news of Noah Centineo’s casting has generated a mix of curiosity and skepticism among fans. Many expressed surprise at the choice of an actor tied to romantic roles for such an intense character. On social media, some fans argue the new approach could revitalize the franchise, while others fear Rambo’s essence may be lost without Stallone.
The decision to focus on Rambo’s youth has also divided opinions. Some see the origin story as a chance to explore the character’s formative traumas, while others would prefer a direct continuation. Helander’s direction, known for its intensity, is viewed as a positive, with potential to deliver memorable action sequences.
- Positive reactions: Younger fans see Centineo as a fresh choice.
- Criticism: Some fans question Centineo’s lack of action experience.
- Action expectations: Helander’s direction promises intense, realistic scenes.
Connection to the Vietnam War
The new film will be set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, a conflict that shaped Rambo’s story in the original films. The narrative will explore how the young soldier faced the horrors of war, shaping his reserved personality and combat skills. Choosing Thailand as a filming location reinforces the commitment to an authentic recreation of the period.
The Vietnam War, spanning 1955 to 1975, was a pivotal historical event that deeply influenced American culture, particularly in cinema. Films like Platoon and Apocalypse Now addressed the psychological and social impacts of the conflict, and the new Rambo is expected to follow suit, offering a more intimate view of the character.
- Historical context: Vietnam War lasted from 1955 to 1975.
- Core themes: Trauma, survival, and the shaping of Rambo’s character.
- Location: Thailand will recreate the war setting.
- Approach: Film will blend action with psychological drama.
Future of the franchise
Noah Centineo’s casting and Stallone’s absence signal a new direction for the franchise. Lionsgate, likely to distribute the film, is betting on a reboot that appeals to younger audiences while respecting Rambo’s legacy. Helander’s direction, known for blending action and storytelling, suggests the film will balance spectacle with depth.
Although a release date has not been confirmed, production is set to move quickly after filming begins in 2026. The film is expected to hit theaters in 2027, depending on post-production. The project’s success could determine the franchise’s future, with potential for new sequels or spin-offs.
- Distribution: Lionsgate is the frontrunner to release the film.
- Timeline: Filming starts in 2026, with a projected 2027 release.
- Potential: Success could lead to more films with Centineo as Rambo.
- Renewal: Project aims to attract a new generation of fans.