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Jason versus Rambo: First Blood Part II

It's almost impossible not to think of this film when thinking about the 80s. With one movie, Sylvester Stallone and director George P. Cosmatos tapped into a post-Vietnam war consciousness, Cold War fears of Russia and gave birth to the cinematic one-man army. Impressive, no? But how does it stand up almost 30 years later? Stick with me.

John Rambo is released from prison by the government for a top-secret covert mission in the last place on Earth he'd want to return -- the jungles of Vietnam.

This is an iconic action movie, but what shocks me is all the iconic stuff happens during the last 36 minutes. Up until then, we get a pretty straight forward and serious continuation of the First Blood story. Then BAM -- shit gets awesome.

Watching Rambo single handedly take on the entire Russian and VC army is a thing of beauty. I don't care if it's 100-per-cent bullshit, it's awesome bullshit. Rambo's now legendary knife is there, as are the explosive arrows and big-ass gun. Remember the helicopter-versus-helicopter conclusion? Well, it's there too.

A lot of people forget this was co-written by James Cameron. I'm willing to bet all the cool shit is his handiwork. Don't get me wrong, there's not  a weak moment in Rambo: First Blood Part II, but the last act is such a thrill ride, I'm pretty sure Cameron is responsible.

Sure, this movie is dated. It's an 80s movie through and through. But what a glorious 80s movie it is. And it's an action classic. A Good. For real.
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