Rambo 6: New Blood (2025) marks the return of the iconic soldier, John Rambo (played by Sylvester Stallone), in an action-packed and emotional chapter of the beloved franchise. Picking up after the events of Rambo: Last Blood (2019), this film explores the next phase of Rambo‘s journey—one where his brutal past comes to a head, and he must face a new generation of warriors who threaten the peace he’s tried to build.

In Rambo 6: New Blood, John Rambo is now in his late 70s, living a quieter, more isolated life on his ranch in the American Southwest. His past, filled with combat and violence, still haunts him, but for the first time, Rambo is trying to put his demons behind him. However, peace is fleeting for the seasoned warrior. When a new wave of violence sweeps through the region, threatening his loved ones and the people he’s vowed to protect, Rambo is once again pulled into a brutal fight that requires him to go beyond his limits.

The film introduces a fresh dynamic to the Rambo saga, as the threat comes not just from criminal cartels or foreign enemies, but from a new generation of mercenaries and militants who use modern warfare tactics that Rambo must confront. Leading this new wave is Travis Kane (played by Tom Hardy), a ruthless and calculating mercenary with ties to the global black market. Kane has a personal vendetta against Rambo, believing that the legendary soldier’s past has caused the downfall of his empire. The stakes are personal for both men, with Rambo forced to confront the consequences of his actions while facing a foe who mirrors his brutal past.

The emotional core of the story lies in Rambo’s relationship with his estranged daughter, Gabrielle (played by Sofia Boutella). After years of silence and distance, they are brought back together when Gabrielle becomes a target in Kane’s ruthless campaign. Rambo must now balance his need for vengeance with his desire to protect the only family he has left. As he trains Gabrielle to survive in a violent world, the father-daughter dynamic adds depth and emotion to the story, showing that Rambo’s legacy isn’t just one of bloodshed, but of the family bonds he’s fought so hard to protect.

The film’s action sequences are as intense as ever, with Rambo’s combat skills put to the test in new, high-tech environments. From brutal hand-to-hand combat to high-speed chases and explosive shootouts, the film never lets up on the thrills. Stallone returns to deliver his signature performance, bringing a deeper, more reflective side to Rambo while still showing that the warrior within is far from gone. The film blends classic Rambo action with modern-day military tactics, resulting in a fast-paced, heart-pounding ride.

One of the most compelling aspects of Rambo 6: New Blood is the way it explores the consequences of violence. Rambo has always been a symbol of strength and resilience, but in this chapter, he is forced to reckon with the toll that war and combat have taken on him—physically, mentally, and emotionally. The film delves deeper into the emotional scars left by his past battles, not just for him, but for the world around him. His struggle to reconcile his violent instincts with his desire for peace is a central theme, giving the film a layer of introspection that adds depth to the high-octane action.

The supporting cast also brings a new level of intensity to the film. Tom Hardy’s portrayal of Travis Kane is chilling, making him a formidable adversary who challenges Rambo not only physically but psychologically. Gabrielle, portrayed by Sofia Boutella, is no longer the helpless figure she once was in the Rambo universe. She is strong, determined, and willing to fight for her survival—and her father. Together, they create a compelling family drama that enhances the action and gives the audience a reason to invest in Rambo’s final fight.

The cinematography in Rambo 6: New Blood beautifully captures the vast, rugged landscapes of the Southwest, giving the film a sense of scale and isolation. The use of natural light in the desert and rural environments enhances the feeling of solitude, while the tense, close-quarters action sequences amplify the danger that Rambo faces. The visual style is raw and gritty, reflecting the harsh realities of the world Rambo lives in. Whether it’s the quiet moments of reflection or the explosive moments of combat, the film’s cinematography ensures that the stakes feel real.

The film’s score, composed by Brian Tyler, is a mix of orchestral grandeur and heart-pounding percussion, enhancing the emotional intensity of Rambo’s journey. The music swells during moments of action, adding an epic quality to the battle sequences, while more somber melodies accompany the quieter, reflective scenes between Rambo and his daughter. The score complements the tone of the film, striking the right balance between action and emotion.

As the film builds toward its climax, Rambo is pushed to his physical and emotional limits. The final showdown is a brutal and cathartic conclusion to the film, where Rambo faces off against Kane in a high-stakes, deadly battle that brings both men’s pasts into sharp focus. The action is visceral and intense, and the film’s resolution provides a satisfying conclusion to Rambo’s journey, even as it leaves open the possibility of future stories.

In conclusion, Rambo 6: New Blood (2025) is a worthy continuation of the iconic Rambo franchise, blending intense action with emotional depth. Sylvester Stallone delivers a powerful performance as Rambo, exploring the psychological and emotional toll of his violent past while delivering the action fans expect. With Tom Hardy as a compelling new antagonist, Sofia Boutella as a fierce ally, and a high-stakes, thrilling plot, Rambo 6 is a powerful, action-packed film that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (9/10) – A brutal, emotional, and action-packed return for the legendary soldier.