In a recent interview, actor Sylvester Stallone revealed his ambitious idea to use artificial intelligence to portray a young version of his iconic character, John Rambo. Stallone, now 79, pitched the concept to film studios, aiming to explore Rambo’s early years during the Vietnam War. He believes that AI could effectively create a digital representation of his 18-year-old self, similar to techniques seen in recent films featuring de-aging technology.
Stallone explained his vision on The Playlist’s Bingeworthy podcast, stating, “AI is sophisticated enough to go through Saigon to see him at 18 years old and basically use the same image.” He suggested that this approach could provide a fresh narrative, delving into Rambo’s backstory as depicted in the 1981 film First Blood. Despite the potential for a compelling story, Stallone faced skepticism from studio executives, who dismissed the idea as outlandish.
Hollywood’s Reluctance to Embrace Innovation
Despite the success of other films that have utilized similar technology, such as Robert De Niro in The Irishman and Harrison Ford in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, Hollywood’s reluctance to embrace Stallone’s vision raises questions about the industry’s willingness to innovate. He lamented that the studios missed an opportunity to invest in a project that could have garnered significant box office returns. “Why so afraid?” he asked, referencing his own experiences in the industry.
Stallone’s notion of revisiting a younger Rambo has merit, particularly considering the character’s evolution from a complex war veteran to a symbol of violence in later sequels. Critics have pointed out that recent portrayals, especially in Rambo: Last Blood, have diluted the character’s original depth. While some argue against the necessity of a digitally de-aged prequel, Stallone remains optimistic about the creative possibilities.
New Direction for the Rambo Franchise
Instead of pursuing Stallone’s AI-driven vision, Millennium Media has opted for a different approach. They are moving forward with a new Rambo prequel film directed by Jalmari Helander, starring Noah Centineo as the younger action legend. Stallone expressed his support for Centineo, acknowledging the challenges he will face in taking on such an iconic role. “It’s very, very hard,” Stallone said, reflecting on the legacy of the character. “Everyone loves the original, and then you’re always fighting that prejudice.”
While Stallone’s vision of digitally embodying his younger self may not materialize, the conversation surrounding AI in filmmaking continues to evolve. As technology advances, filmmakers may find new avenues to explore narratives that resonate with audiences and breathe fresh life into beloved characters. For now, fans of the franchise will have to wait and see how the new direction unfolds.