Rambo: First Blood Part II Blu-ray Review

'Rambo: First Blood Part II' on Blu-ray presents a noteworthy 1080p/VC-1 transfer in a 2.35:1 aspect ratio, marking a significant visual upgrade over previous releases. While not flawless, this transfer offers rich and natural color reproduction, with the vibrant hues of the Vietnamese (actually filmed in Mexico) jungle standing out particularly well. Skin tones are rendered accurately, and the explosions exhibit a remarkable orange bloom. Details are markedly improved—viewers can now discern the smallest features in the foliage, the minuscule bubbles in the mud, and even the fine scars on Rambo's arm that maintain continuity with the first movie's wounds.

However, some shortcomings are apparent. The image occasionally lacks depth, with several scenes appearing soft or surrounded by a light haze. Notable technical issues include sporadic blue lines appearing at 31:30, 52:00, and 55:20, though they are brief and minimally intrusive. Black levels remain solid, as evidenced by a particular nighttime plane-boarding scene in chapter three, which stands out for its contrast and delineation.

In summary, while the transfer occasionally falters with softness, crushed shadows, and hazy edges, it is devoid of unwelcome edge enhancement or digital noise reduction techniques. Despite these inconsistencies, the film has never looked better on home video. This Blu-ray edition delivers a surprisingly robust picture quality that will undoubtedly please fans of the film.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 sound mix for “Rambo: First Blood Part II” can be described as largely adequate but ultimately underwhelming for an action film. Positioned mainly in the front channels, the audio lacks the immersive quality typical of modern surround setups. Rear channels are rarely engaged, except for occasional usage in scenes like the rain sequence in chapter 12, which stands out as the best application of ambient sound. However, other crucial sequences, such as a jet take-off and heavy machine gun fire in chapter seven, fail to deliver the expected auditory impact, often sounding flat or dull. Dialogues are conveyed with clarity, an integral part given the narrative’s reliance on political and strategic conversations.

Notably, the sound's treble tones are often tinny and lack depth, causing dialogue to sometimes be lost amid action-packed sequences. The LFE channel, which should deliver robust bass to complement onscreen explosions and gunfire, instead provides a less aggressive output, making these sequences feel less powerful. While the audio does outperform previous DVD iterations by presenting cleaner dialogue and introducing some rear-channel ambience that attempts to create a jungle environment, these improvements are marginal.

In summary, this DTS-HD MA 5.1 track represents a passable but uninspired effort. It retains a semblance of clarity and occasionally attempts three-dimensionality with limited success. Given the nature of “Rambo: First Blood Part II” as an action-packed spectacle, the lack of dynamic range and booming authority in its audio mix is a noticeable shortcoming. Lowering expectations beforehand will help mitigate some disappointment with this otherwise serviceable yet non-revolutionary audio presentation.

The Blu-ray extras for "Rambo: First Blood Part II" may lack quantity but are rich in quality. Director George P. Cosmatos' commentary track is thorough, covering set design, filming locations, production challenges, and filming techniques, albeit sometimes hindered by his thick accent. The documentary "We Get to Win This Time" offers a comprehensive look at the movie's script evolution and casting choices, featuring insightful interviews with cast and crew. The "Out of the Blu Trivia Track" adds additional layers of interest with its engaging pop-up facts. Despite some more superficial elements being omitted from previous releases, this Blu-ray provides a rewarding deep dive into the making of a classic 80s action film.

Extras included in this disc:

Audio Commentary: An in-depth commentary track by director George P. Cosmatos discussing various aspects of the film's production.

We Get to Win This Time: A documentary examining the origins of the script and the film’s production.

Out of the Blu Trivia Track: Pop-up trivia that provides interesting nuggets of information during the film.

"Rambo: First Blood Part II" is a quintessential 1980s action film that epitomizes the era's archetypal one-man army narrative. The movie follows Vietnam veteran John Rambo (Sylvester Stallone) who, after being incarcerated due to events in the first film, is pulled from prison by Colonel Trautman (Richard Crenna) for a mission back in Vietnam. Tasked with verifying the presence of American POWs, Rambo's mission becomes one of survival and rescue as he uncovers collaborations between Vietnamese forces and the Soviet military. Partnered with Vietnamese ally Co Bao (Julia Nickson-Soul), Rambo employs an arsenal of weapons to fight overwhelming enemy forces.

The film is renowned for its over-the-top action sequences, which include explosive-tipped arrows and the iconic survival knife. Director George P. Cosmatos orchestrates scenes with relentless action, displaying Stallone’s Rambo in chaotic combats and running dialogues interrupted by relentless violence. These spectacles are executed with grandiosity, lighting up scenes with spectacular explosions but overshadowing quieter moments of character development.

While "First Blood Part II" delivers extravagant, fast-paced entertainment, it diverges significantly from the dramatic and tension-filled oeuvre of its predecessor, "First Blood." The tonal shift to an invulnerable, near-mythical protagonist reduces the film’s believability, with every scene punctuated by visceral carnage. For fans of 1980s action cinema, this sequel remains a nostalgic trip defined by its unapologetic sensationalism. However, for those who revere the original for its depth, the sequel may feel superficial and disconnected from what made the character of Rambo compelling. Despite these criticisms, the indelible impact of Stallone's portrayal ensures its place in the pantheon of iconic '80s films.

The "Rambo: First Blood Part II" Blu-ray is a quintessential piece of '80s American action filmmaking, embodying the era's bold and brash style. Pivotal for its hero John Rambo, who defined a generation with his strength, cunning, and indomitable heart, this film may not surpass the original "First Blood" in terms of narrative depth but remains the most widely recognized entry of the series. Lionsgate's presentation offers an impressive video transfer that will undoubtedly please enthusiasts, though the overall experience is tempered by lackluster audio quality and mediocre supplemental materials.

While the high-definition video quality is commendable, ensuring that iconic action sequences and vivid landscapes are rendered crisply, the lossless audio track falls short. The expected immersive soundscape central to action films appears subdued, detracting from the otherwise dynamic visual presentation. Supplementary materials are present but lack depth, offering fans a modest collection without substantial allure. These factors may be minor deterrents for prospective buyers, particularly those seeking a more comprehensive package.

In conclusion, "Rambo: First Blood Part II" endures as a celebrated action classic due to its iconic protagonist rather than cinematic excellence. This Blu-ray iteration represents solid value primarily for devoted fans and collectors, bolstered by attractive pricing for individual films or box sets. While not an outstanding home media release, it remains a recommended purchase for those looking to relive the heroics of one of action cinema’s enduring figures.