Lionsgate is moving forward with a John Rambo prequel, currently in production and slated for release on January 30, 2026. Teh film stars Noah Centineo as the iconic character in a story exploring Rambo’s early years.
Noah Centineo Takes on the Role of a Young John Rambo
Production began in January 2024, filming across various locations in Thailand, including Bangkok, Krabi, Phang Nga, and Kanchanaburi . The prequel, directed by Jalmari Helander (known for Sisu and Big Game), will delve into Rambo’s experiences before the events of First Blood, focusing on his time during the Vietnam War.
Helander expressed a deep personal connection to the Rambo franchise,stating,”When I was 11,I saw First Blood for the first time,and it changed my life. Rambo wasn’t just a film to me – it stayed with me growing up and was a defining influence on why I wanted to become a filmmaker.” He describes the prequel as “Rambo stripped down, raw, and real – a survival story about endurance, persistence, and lost innocence.”
Exploring Rambo’s Origins
the official logline for the film states it will take audiences “back, years before the events of First Blood, diving deep into the roots and experiences that forged one of the big screen’s most enduring and complex characters.”
Joining Centineo in the cast are Yao (sinners), Jason Tobin (A Thousand Blows), Quincy Isaiah (Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers dynasty), Jefferson White (Yellowstone), and Tayme Thapthimthong (The White Lotus). While Sylvester Stallone, who originated the role of John Rambo in 1982’s First Blood, is not currently involved in the project, producers have indicated they are keeping the possibility open for his future participation .
The Rambo film series comprises five installments, concluding with Rambo: Last Blood in 2019. This prequel represents a new direction for the franchise, aiming to present an untold chapter in Rambo’s life.
Key Takeaways
- Noah Centineo will star as a young John Rambo in a prequel exploring his origins.
- The film is directed by Jalmari Helander and is currently filming in Thailand.
- The story is set during rambo’s time in the Vietnam War, before the events of First Blood.
- Sylvester Stallone is not currently involved, but producers haven’t ruled out his potential appearance.
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