Al Pacino famously turned down the iconic role of John Rambo.
The Story Behind the Decision
When Al Pacino was considered for the lead role in First Blood, the inaugural film of the Rambo series, he ultimately declined the part. His decision stemmed from a significant creative difference regarding the character's portrayal. Pacino's vision for John Rambo was that the character should be depicted as more of a "madman." This specific request, however, was rejected by the filmmakers, leading Pacino to pass on what would become one of cinema's most recognizable action roles.
Interesting Facts About Rambo's Production
While the film is set against the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest, First Blood was primarily filmed in the scenic landscapes of British Columbia, Canada. One of the memorable locations featured in the movie was an iconic bridge, which has since been torn down due to environmental concerns and ecological issues.