Russo Brothers and AGBO On Board Major New “Rambo” Prequel
The action‑franchise landscape is shifting. A new origin‑story film titled John Rambo is now in development, with AGBO, the studio helmed by Anthony Russo and Joe Russo, joining forces with Lionsgate and Millennium Media. The Russos will serve as executive producers on the project.
What We Know So Far
The film is described as a prequel, exploring the early years of the iconic action character John Rambo (originally portrayed by Sylvester Stallone) during the Vietnam War era.
Production is slated to begin in early 2026, with filming expected in Thailand.
The director attached to the project is Finnish filmmaker Jalmari Helander, best known for the action film “Sisu”. The screenplay is by Rory Haines and Sohrab Noshirvani.
Rising actor Noah Centineo is currently in final talks to star as John Rambo.
Lionsgate has secured global distribution rights and is partnering with Millennium for worldwide sales and future derivative works based on the franchise.
Comments from the Studios
“AGBO’s entire team, led by Anthony and Joe, are creative innovators who are delivering the most emotionally satisfying and inventive action‑led storytelling in theaters around the world today,” said Charlotte Koh, Executive Vice President of Acquisitions & Co‑Productions at Lionsgate.
Angela Russo‑Otstot, Chief Creative Officer of AGBO, added:
“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… We’re thrilled to introduce a new generation to Rambo.”
Why It Matters
This film signals a bold renewal of one of action cinema’s most enduring characters. By positioning the story as a prequel, the producers aim to explore themes of identity, trauma and transformation rather than simply re‑tread past material. The involvement of the Russo brothers, known for their large‑scale blockbuster work, also suggests Lionsgate and Millennium are aiming for a high‑profile, global event.
For fans of the franchise and action movie enthusiasts, key points to watch include:
How the film balances origins‑story emotional stakes with the visceral action heritage of the “Rambo” brand.
The visual and production design choices, especially given the Vietnam War setting and Thailand location.
Whether Noah Centineo can convincingly carry the legacy of John Rambo for both longtime fans and newcomers.
The potential for this film to launch further derivative works (TV series, spinoffs) under the Lionsgate‑Millennium deal.
In Brief
Title: John Rambo (prequel)
Producers/Partners: AGBO (Anthony & Joe Russo), Lionsgate, Millennium Media
Director: Jalmari Helander
Screenwriters: Rory Haines & Sohrab Noshirvani
Star: Noah Centineo (in final talks)
Setting: Vietnam War era, filming in Thailand
Production begins: Early 2026
Distribution: Global via Lionsgate