Episode 52: The Rambo Franchise Part I with Dr. Ted Preston

Apr 18, 2025

 

On this month's episode of The Sociologist's Dojo Podcast, return guest Dr. Ted Preston, Professor of Philosophy at Rio Hondo College and the host begin their two part discussion of John Rambo and The Rambo franchise.

Here in Part 1, we first get an update on Dr. Preston's research before diving into the films. This first half focuses on their discussion of the basics of the films, franchise trivia and the first bit of historical relevance for the character and the series. The episode asks the question about what makes an 80's action film, how Rambo fits that criteria, and provides the opening discussion of the politics of Rambo on screen.

Enjoy!

Production Notes:

Intro: 0:00-310

• An Episode in Two Parts 

Update on Dr. Preston's Research 3:11-6:21

• Cato and Neurodivergence

Basics of the Franchise 6:22-28:49

• Second Disclaimer and References Used
• Structure of the Episode 

Basics:

• Inception (David Morrel's original book)
• Calarco Pictures Rights and Adaptation 

Synopsis of the Series:

• Changes from the Text 
• Trajectory of the films and Popularity of the Series 
• Trivia 

Historical Context 28:50-82:51 

• Dr. Preston and the Host's experiences with the character and the franchise.
• 80's Toy Tie-ins
• What makes an 80's action film?
• Stallone and Schwarzenegger Feud 
• Rambo and Cultural Lag 
• The Politics of The Rambo Franchise (Part 1)

Links

• The Last Action Heroes by Nick de Semlyen 
• Regan and Rambo article LA Times (1985) 
• Rambo Politics from Regan to Trump by Bonnie Honig 
• First Blood by David Morrel 
• How Slyvester Stalone's Rrambo became a symbol for Right Wing Politics- Esquire 

All Clips were used under fair Use