FIRST BLOOD opens. Directed by Ted Kotcheff. Adapted by Michael Kozell, William Sackheim and Sylvester Stallone from David Morrell’s same-titled novel. In what is destined to become his signature role (along with Rocky), Stallone is John Rambo, a decorated Vietnam special ops veteran whose fateful encounter with the belligerent, redneck sheriff of a small town in the Pacific Northwest quickly escalates into an explosive conflict that puts his specialised combat and survival skills to the ultimate test. An exemplary, high octane action vehicle girded by a tactile emotional undertow. Co-starring Brian Dennehy as the recalcitrant cop and Richard Crenna as Rambo’s former commanding officer.