Noah Centineo in Talks for Rambo Prequel

John Rambo is returning – and it seems the lead actor has now been chosen. According to industry magazine Deadline, Netflix star Noah Centineo is being considered for the title role in the upcoming "John Rambo" prequel.

Centineo gained recognition through Netflix hits such as "To All the Boys I've Loved Before" and "The Recruit", for example. Finnish director Jalmari Helander, who recently attracted attention with the hard-hitting action film "Sisu", is set to direct. The screenplay comes from Rory Haines and Sohrab Noshirvani, the writing duo behind "The Mauritanian".

Based on insider information, filming is expected to begin in Thailand in early 2026. Although the project has not been officially signed with a studio yet, industry insiders view Lionsgate as the clear frontrunner. In addition to releasing the last two Rambo films, the studio has previously collaborated with director Helander. Details about the plot are being kept tightly under wraps. The only certainty is that the prequel will explore the origin story of the young John Rambo during the Vietnam War. A release date has yet to be announced.

The Greatest Heroes of Action Cinema: Legends Who Made History

Action cinema has been an integral part of the film world for decades. Explosions, spectacular stunts, legendary one-liners, and unshakable main characters – all of this defines a genre that continues to produce new icons. Some of these heroes are so deeply embedded in pop culture that they have influenced generations of viewers. Here is a look at some of the greatest action heroes of all time and why they remain unforgettable to this day:

John McClane: The Tough Cop Next Door

When "Die Hard" (1988) hit theaters, Bruce Willis was still far from having the image of a muscle-bound action star. But that's exactly what made John McClane so special: He was not an invincible superhero, but an ordinary cop who just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time – and still managed to rise above the situation. His dry humor, improvisational skills, and humanity made him a relatable figure. McClane is proof that action heroes do not just win through strength, but also through cleverness and perseverance.

Ellen Ripley: The Unexpected Warrior

When Sigourney Weaver appeared as Ellen Ripley in "Alien" (1979), no one expected her to become an action icon. Ripley was not initially designed as a classic heroine, but she quickly evolved into a brave leader who fought not only terrifying Xenomorphs but also power-hungry corporate figures. Especially in "Aliens" (1986), Ripley proved that women in action cinema can be just as uncompromising, capable, and charismatic as their male counterparts. She paved the way for many more female action heroes to follow.

John Rambo: The Lone Warrior

Originally intended as a critical anti-war film, "First Blood" (1982) with Sylvester Stallone evolved into the blueprint for the 1980s action hero. The traumatized Vietnam veteran John Rambo fought less against personal demons in the sequels and more against entire armies – and won. With his headband, bare chest, and endless belt of ammunition, Rambo became a symbol of survival instinct and unstoppable determination. His combination of physical strength and tragic backstory made him a legend.

Indiana Jones: The Adventurer with Whip and Hat

Harrison Ford created a character in Indiana Jones that perfectly combines a thirst for adventure with action. The archaeologist who takes on Nazis, cults, and treasure hunters is far from a flawless hero – he stumbles, makes mistakes, and is afraid of snakes – and that is exactly what makes him so likable. The "Indiana Jones" film series (since 1981) not only delivered iconic action sequences but also left a lasting impact on the adventure film as a subgenre. Indy is proof that charm and cleverness are just as important as fists.

The Terminator: The Machine with Cult Status

When "The Terminator" hit theaters in 1984, it revolutionized sci-fi action cinema. Arnold Schwarzenegger portrayed an almost unstoppable killing machine from the future – cold, precise, and terrifying. With just a few words and an impressive physique, the Terminator became an icon, whose most famous line, "I'll be back," has long since entered everyday language. In the sequels, the character transformed from antagonist to protector, adding extra depth. "The Terminator" still stands for uncompromising action, groundbreaking special effects, and a blend of menace and fascination that few film characters achieve.

James Bond: The Gentleman Agent

For over 60 years, James Bond has been the epitome of the cool secret agent. Whether portrayed by Sean Connery, Roger Moore, Pierce Brosnan, or Daniel Craig – 007 combines elegant appearances, deadly efficiency, and high-tech gadgets like no other. Bond has repeatedly redefined action cinema by blending realistic espionage elements with exaggerated stunts and exotic locations. He is the enduring icon among action heroes.

Lara Croft: The Digital Icon on the Big Screen

Originally created as a video game heroine, Lara Croft made her way to the big screen with "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider" (2001). Whether portrayed by Angelina Jolie or Alicia Vikander, Lara is a mix of intelligence, courage, and physical strength – and proves that female characters in action cinema don't have to be just sidekicks. Her status as a pop culture phenomenon shows that female action heroes have long earned a permanent place alongside their male counterparts.

Dominic Toretto: Family Above All

With the "Fast & Furious" franchise, Vin Diesel has established a new kind of action hero: Dominic Toretto is less the classic lone fighter and more the leader of a "family" that battles ever greater threats with fast cars and daring stunts. The character is a symbol of loyalty, unity – and the larger-than-life spectacle that modern action cinema often delivers.

Conclusion: Heroes with Many Faces

Action cinema lives through its characters – whether they are tough lone fighters, clever adventurers, or unshakable team players. From John McClane to Dominic Toretto, from Ellen Ripley to James Bond: these heroes embody courage, determination, and the willingness to risk everything. They are more than just characters on the screen – they are archetypes that have shaped our idea of heroism. And as long as there are stories to tell, there will be new action heroes to follow in their footsteps.