Rambo III (1988)

Once again, Rambo is brought out of peaceful retirement to fight for Col. Trautman. Many of the conventions established in First Blood Part II are reintroduced here, including especially the emphasis on Rambo/Stallone's body (particularly the graphic tending of his own wounds, which goes back to First Blood). He once again is aided by an indigenous friend who is familiar with the terrain and conflict of the new setting.

Some differences, though, are the addition of more buddy-movie-like banter during the action, usually relegated to Trautman's battles on the home front. Of course, one could argue that Trautman (who is captured and rescued by Rambo, and fights alongside him) is simply taking that aspect of the franchise with him into the field, but much of the gravity of their relationship seems to be gone in this film. Perhaps it is no coincidence that Die Hard is released the same year, taking the established action hero framework and infusing it with self-deprecating wisecracks? Indeed, Rambo is much less tortured by his past in this film (especially considering the angry, disillusioned ending of First Blood Part II, and is even granted a happy ending of sorts - a significant departure from the formula.

One convention that seems, without fail, to return in every Rambo film is Col. Troutman warning the antagonist incredibly dramatically about Rambo's abilities. To wit:

First Blood

Teasle: Are you telling me that 200 of our men against your boy is a no-win situation for us?
Trautman: You send that many, don't forget one thing.
Teasle: What?
Trautman: A good supply of body bags.

Rambo: First Blood Part II

Murdock: And if I were you... I'd never make the mistake of bringing this subject up again.
Trautman: Oh, you're the one who's making the mistake.
Murdock: Yeah? What mistake?
Trautman: Rambo.

Rambo III

Zaysen: Are you insane? One man against trained commandos... Who do you think this man is? God?
Colonel Trautman: No. God would have mercy. He won't.


I'll miss those hilarious moments in the newest film - Trautman apparently isn't in it.