The Rambo franchise is heading back to the battlefield—this time to explore the early years of its legendary hero. Millennium Media has confirmed John Rambo, a Vietnam War–era prequel starring The Recruit and To All the Boys actor Noah Centineo in the title role.
The new film will chart Rambo’s transformation from small-town athlete to decorated Green Beret, setting the stage for the events of 1982’s First Blood.
Jalmari Helander, the Finnish filmmaker behind the cult action hit Sisu, will direct from a script by Black Adam scribes Rory Haines and Sohrab Noshirvani. Production is expected to kick off in early 2026 in Thailand.
Franchise creator and original star Sylvester Stallone—who has played the battle-hardened soldier across five films—is not involved in the prequel but is said to be aware of the project.
“This is an opportunity to show audiences the making of John Rambo,” Millennium Media said in a statement. “The man before the myth.”
The move marks a significant tonal shift for Centineo, best known for his work in rom-coms and streaming thrillers, as he steps into one of cinema’s most iconic action roles. With Helander at the helm and a Vietnam War backdrop, John Rambo is aiming to bring a grittier, boots-on-the-ground realism to the franchise—while introducing Rambo to a whole new generation of moviegoers.
SOURCE: Deadline
