Russo Brothers Back 'John Rambo' Prequel; Lionsgate Secures 'Expendables' Future

Get ready for a new chapter in the Rambo universe with some heavy-hitting producers, plus Lionsgate is bringing back The Expendables with ambitious plans for its future.

TL;DR: Key Takeaways on Rambo and Expendables' Futures

• Lionsgate has made a significant deal with Millennium Films, acquiring global distribution rights for the upcoming John Rambo prequel and securing full development rights for The Expendables franchise across various media.
• Joe and Anthony Russo, the visionary filmmakers behind massive action hits like the Avengers saga, are set to executive produce John Rambo, which will star Noah Centineo and be directed by Sisu filmmaker Jalmari Helander.
• Production for the Vietnam War-set John Rambo is slated for early 2026 in Thailand, while The Expendables franchise is poised for expansion into new films, TV series, video games, and even "immersive experiences."

Imagine a young soldier, barely out of his teens, navigating the brutal, chaotic landscape of the Vietnam War, grappling with trauma and a developing moral code. This is the John Rambo we're about to meet. In a significant shake-up for action movie fans, Hollywood's landscape is buzzing with major news surrounding two iconic franchises: Rambo and The Expendables. Lionsgate has just sealed a pivotal deal with Millennium Films, acquiring extensive rights that promise to breathe new life into both beloved, albeit sometimes embattled, action sagas.

Lionsgate's Strategic Play for Enduring Action Franchises

The deal sees Lionsgate taking a commanding position in the future of these franchises. For the upcoming John Rambo prequel, Lionsgate now holds worldwide distribution rights, along with opportunities to participate in future Rambo films and lead production on Rambo TV projects. More broadly, the studio has acquired the rights to develop and produce all derivative works related to The Expendables, which includes future films, television productions, video games, and even immersive experiences. This signals a clear intent to expand these universes far beyond the silver screen.

This wide-ranging agreement isn't entirely new territory for Lionsgate. The studio already distributes all existing The Expendables films in key markets like the U.S., Canada, and the UK. Their historical involvement with the Rambo films is also extensive, handling U.S. and Canada distribution for Rambo (IV) and Rambo: Last Blood (V), plus UK rights for Last Blood. They also distribute the original trilogy (First Blood, Rambo: First Blood Part II, and Rambo III) across Latin America and Southeast Asia. This new deal solidifies their control and broadens their creative scope significantly. Source: [Deadline, Lionsgate Makes Deal With Millennium Films For ‘Rambo’ Prequel And ‘The Expendables’ Rights, November 3, 2025].

A New Chapter for John Rambo: Centineo Steps In, Helander Directs

The most immediate and talked-about development is the John Rambo prequel. Stepping into the formidable boots once worn by Sylvester Stallone is Noah Centineo, reportedly in final negotiations for the title role. This marks a significant shift, introducing a younger face to the character famously known for his intense physicality and silent, brooding demeanor. Centineo has been expanding his range beyond romantic comedies, notably in action roles for The Recruit and Black Adam, and is set to appear in the upcoming Street Fighter movie. This prequel, set during the Vietnam War, aims to explore the formative experiences that shaped John Rambo into the iconic, yet troubled, action hero audiences know.

Guiding this origin story is Finnish filmmaker Jalmari Helander, whose previous work, Sisu, has garnered critical acclaim for its visceral, no-holds-barred action. If you haven't seen Sisu, imagine a relentless, almost mythic, one-man army facing impossible odds with brutal efficiency. Helander’s proven ability to deliver raw, engaging action with a unique stylistic flair makes him an inspired choice to delve into Rambo's intense origins. Production is slated to begin in Thailand in early 2026, with Lionsgate kicking off international sales at the upcoming American Film Market. The screenplay is penned by Rory Haines and Sohrab Noshirvani, known for their work on the critically lauded legal thriller The Mauritanian and the blockbuster Black Adam, suggesting a blend of thoughtful narrative and high-octane action for the prequel.

The Russo Brothers Lend Their Blockbuster Touch

Adding even more weight to the John Rambo project are Joe and Anthony Russo, who, through their AGBO banner, are on board as executive producers. Known for directing some of the biggest blockbusters in cinematic history, including multiple Marvel Avengers films, their involvement suggests a commitment to both scale and sophisticated action storytelling. AGBO's track record includes hits like The Gray Man and the Extraction Movies for Netflix, showcasing their expertise in crafting compelling, action-packed narratives that resonate with global audiences. Their influence could elevate John Rambo beyond a typical prequel, aiming for an "event film" status.

“Rambo is one of the most enduring and iconic figures in action cinema and exploring the origins of that mythology is an incredibly exciting opportunity. Everyone knows John Rambo is a relentless force of nature, but what truly distinguishes him are his principles, his code, his unerring sense of what’s right, and his willingness to risk everything to defend it. Jalmari brings the raw action and emotional depth needed to pay homage to this legendary character. We’re thrilled to collaborate with our partners at Lionsgate and Millennium to support his vision and introduce a new generation to Rambo.” — Angela Russo-Otstot, Chief Creative Officer, AGBO

This statement from Angela Russo-Otstot highlights AGBO's intention to explore the deeper character elements of Rambo, not just the action. While the visceral combat is a given, their focus on his "principles" and "code" suggests a more nuanced portrayal that could resonate with both long-time fans and a new audience. The Russo brothers' ability to balance large-scale spectacle with character development is a promising sign for the prequel.

The Expendables: From Box Office Bomb to Streaming Sensation?

While John Rambo is generating buzz with new talent, The Expendables franchise presents a different kind of challenge and opportunity for Lionsgate. The series, which has collectively grossed nearly $700 million globally, hit a rough patch with its most recent installment, Expend4bles. Despite a star-studded cast, the film struggled significantly at the theatrical box office, pulling in only $37.9 million against a reported $100 million budget. Critics were largely unimpressed, with the film scoring a franchise-worst 14% on Rotten Tomatoes. Source: [MovieWeb, Jason Statham and Sylvester Stallone's Blockbuster Action Franchise May Actually Still Be Alive, November 3, 2025].

However, there's a fascinating twist to this story. Despite its theatrical woes, Expend4bles found an unexpected resurgence on streaming. In June 2025, nearly two years after its initial theatrical release, the film topped streaming charts on Starz, proving that audience interest in the franchise remains strong, albeit on different platforms. This unexpected success likely played a significant role in Lionsgate's decision to acquire full development rights. The shift from theatrical struggles to streaming triumphs shows a clear pathway for the franchise to continue, potentially prioritizing a direct-to-streaming model or a hybrid release strategy for future installments. This dynamic illustrates the evolving nature of content consumption and how studios are adapting to new market realities.

The Value Proposition of Established Cinematic Universes

Why would Lionsgate invest so heavily in these franchises, especially after Expend4bles' theatrical underperformance? The answer lies in the enduring value of established intellectual property (IP). In today's crowded entertainment landscape, recognized brands like Rambo and The Expendables offer instant recognition and a built-in fanbase, reducing the risk associated with entirely new ventures. These franchises have a history, a legacy, and a global reach that can be leveraged across various media. Source: [The Hollywood Reporter, Joe and Anthony Russo Have Jumped on Board the ‘John Rambo’ Prequel Movie, November 5, 2025].

For Lionsgate, this deal isn't just about movies; it's about building comprehensive cinematic universes. The ability to develop TV series, video games, and even "immersive experiences" for both Rambo and Expendables means diversifying revenue streams and engaging fans on multiple fronts. For example, a successful Expendables video game or a Rambo-themed escape room could tap into different market segments and extend the life of the brands well beyond traditional film releases. This comprehensive approach is key to maximizing the value of these long-standing action properties in the modern media landscape.

Counterpoints and Creative Trade-offs for the Future

While the news is exciting for fans, it's not without its potential pitfalls and creative trade-offs. For The Expendables, the lukewarm critical reception of its most recent theatrical outing, combined with its high production cost, raises questions about its viability as a major blockbuster franchise. Will a pivot to streaming-focused projects dilute the brand's theatrical impact, or is it a necessary evolution? There's a risk that a constant stream of derivative works, while financially appealing, could also lead to franchise fatigue if not executed with care and originality. The challenge will be to find a balance between quantity and quality, ensuring that new content adds genuine value rather than merely existing to fill a quota.

Similarly, for John Rambo, the choice of an origin story, starring a younger actor like Noah Centineo, carries inherent risks. Some long-time fans might be wary of a Rambo without Sylvester Stallone, especially if the new interpretation deviates too far from the established character. David Morrell, the author of First Blood, famously criticized Rambo: Last Blood, calling the film "a mess" and stating he was "embarrassed to have my name associated with it." This sentiment highlights the deep connection many have to the character's original portrayal and themes. The creative team will need to navigate this legacy carefully, honoring the spirit of Rambo while forging a new path that feels authentic and compelling for a new generation. The trade-off is between honoring the past and reinventing for the future, a delicate balance for any beloved character.

A Fan's Hope for the Next Chapter

Imagine Sarah, a long-time Rambo fan, scrolling through her feed with a mix of excitement and skepticism. "Wait, Noah Centineo as Rambo? And the Russo Brothers? This could either be an amazing, gritty origin story or a total misfire if they don't capture the essence of what made Rambo, Rambo!" she muses. Her friend Mark, a big fan of Helander's Sisu, chimes in, "If Helander brings even half that raw energy and practical stunt work, it's a must-see for me. I just hope they keep the raw, emotional grit that defined Rambo, even if it's a younger, less scarred take. And for The Expendables? Honestly, if it means more over-the-top action that finds its audience on streaming, I'm all for it. Sometimes you just want some brainless fun!" This casual exchange perfectly encapsulates the blend of hope and cautious optimism that surrounds these major announcements.

What This Means for You, the Viewer

For fans of explosive action and enduring characters, these developments mean a lot to look forward to. Here are some practical takeaways:

• A Fresh Take on Rambo: Expect a prequel that dives deep into John Rambo's early years, providing an origin story that aims for both emotional depth and Helander's signature intense action.
• Big Names Behind the Scenes: The Russo Brothers' involvement suggests a high-quality production with a focus on compelling storytelling and impressive action sequences for John Rambo.
• More Expendables Content is Coming: Despite recent box office struggles, Lionsgate's full control of The Expendables means more films, TV shows, and other interactive experiences are on the horizon, likely leveraging streaming platforms.
• A Diversified Future for Franchises: Look for these beloved action brands to expand beyond traditional movies, offering new ways to engage with the characters and worlds across different media.

Frequently Asked Questions About These Action Franchises

Here are some common questions about the upcoming Rambo prequel and the future of The Expendables.

Q: Who is playing John Rambo in the upcoming prequel? A: Noah Centineo is in final negotiations to take on the titular role of John Rambo in the upcoming sixth installment and prequel to the iconic series.

Q: What is the title of the next Rambo film? A: The upcoming sixth installment and prequel is titled John Rambo.

Q: Who will direct the John Rambo prequel? A: Finnish filmmaker Jalmari Helander, who previously directed the acclaimed action feature Sisu, will direct the John Rambo prequel.

Q: When is production expected to begin for John Rambo? A: Production for John Rambo is slated to begin in early 2026 in Thailand.

Sources

• Kroll, Justin. "Lionsgate Makes Deal With Millennium Films For ‘Rambo’ Prequel And ‘The Expendables’ Rights." Deadline, November 3, 2025. [URL not provided in input, but cited as "Deadline first reported..."]
• Vlessing, Etan. "Joe and Anthony Russo Have Jumped on Board the ‘John Rambo’ Prequel Movie as Executive Producers Through Their AGBO Banner." The Hollywood Reporter, November 5, 2025. [URL not provided in input, but cited as "THR Newsletters"]
• Milakovic, Hrvoje. "Russo Brothers Join ‘Rambo’ Prequel as Executive Producers, Noah Centineo in Final Talks to Play Young Rambo." Comic Basics, November 6, 2025. [URL not provided in input]
• Vasudevan, Aishwarya. "Noah Centineo in final talks to play young John Rambo in prequel film." OTTplay, November 4, 2025. [URL not provided in input]
• Northrup, Ryan. "Sylvester Stallone’s Expendables Franchise Fate Revealed After $51M Bomb." ScreenRant, November 3, 2025. [URL not provided in input]
• MovieWeb. "Jason Statham and Sylvester Stallone's Blockbuster Action Franchise May Actually Still Be Alive." MovieWeb, November 3, 2025. [URL not provided in input]
• Film Stories. "The Expendables | Rights change hands to action franchise." Film Stories, November 4, 2025. [URL not provided in input]