Rambo Trilogy

Rating:
Summary: One great collection!!
Review: Wow, it's been a while, but rewatching these classic '80s action movies on DVD has been a real trip! "First Blood" was a gripping novel that inspired an excellent movie, and to date it remains my favorite of the three because it has the most unconventional take on the "action hero"... who's just another poor, damaged, and misunderstood soul left over from the wake of Vietnam; his actions may be questionable, but we sympathize with his plight because the writing coupled with Stallone's perfect performance allow us to believe that he truly has been wronged. "Rambo: First Blood Part II" is the quintessential action movie of the '80s; its character arcs aren't as compelling as in "First Blood," but it's an entertaining movie through-and-through and manages to retain some depth by exploring the issue of forgotten MIA vets still in Vietnam. "Rambo III" has a very clever take on the real-life US intervention in Afghanistan against the Soviets during the Regan era, but has the least depth of the three movies because ultimately it's more about Rambo rescuing his friend and mentor (a well-portrayed-as-always-by-Richard Crenna), Sam Trautman, as an excuse to create 2 hours' worth of nonetheless exhilarating action scenes. All of this is wholeheartedly complimented by Jerry Goldsmith's wonderful score; his Rambo theme transitions wonderfully from hard-driving action to passionate ballad and resonates in your mind after each film is over! Stallone is a smart screenwriter and actor, and he knows what makes these movies work, which I think is well-evidenced by their enduring popularity now in 2002. This excellent DVD package has it all, and is definitely the perfect experience for anyone wishing to relive the fun and excitement that made the action movies of the '80s so great! Particularly these action movies, which have a true and recognizable main character (not just an actor blowing things up), which I think truly sets them apart from the pack. Watch and enjoy!!