i think there’s a universe out there where Rocky and First Blood establish Stalone as being the contemplative action movie guy. both those movies had interesting things to say about grief, loss, disappointment, and carrying on with the traumas of what pursuit of the american dream actually mean
There’s a strong argument that he’s American film’s Norman Rockwell. Not perfect, but he helped shape the identity of a culture in a way that resonated.
i think there’s a universe out there where Rocky and First Blood establish Stalone as being the contemplative action movie guy. both those movies had interesting things to say about grief, loss, disappointment, and carrying on with the traumas of what pursuit of the american dream actually mean
I took First Blood as commentary on the poor treatment and mental health services provided to Viet Nam veterans. First Blood is an excellent film IMO.
and you’d be right! it’s honestly very thoughtful and contemplative
It’s also about the social conflict between Vietnam and Korea veterans. Something largely forgotten today.
There’s a strong argument that he’s American film’s Norman Rockwell. Not perfect, but he helped shape the identity of a culture in a way that resonated.
Rocky stayed pretty true to that throughout the sequels. The speech he gives his son in Rocky V is outstanding.