How Classic Action Movies Were Initially Written as Character Studies

Many of the classic action movies we know today started as deeply character-driven narratives. These films were initially written with a focus on exploring the psychological and emotional aspects of their protagonists, only to evolve into the action-packed thrillers that audiences have come to expect. Two notable examples are First Blood and Die Hard.

First Blood: From Dark Portrayal to Action Hero

The original First Blood movie was intended as a much darker portrayal of the sense of despair and isolation that Vietnam veterans felt upon their return to the United States. David Morrell's book, which the film was based on, is a slightly darker tale where Rambo ultimately dies at the end, mortally wounded earlier in the story.

When the studio acquired the film rights, they initially intended to cast an older actor to reflect the weariness and agelessness of war. Legendary figures like Robert De Niro, Clint Eastwood, and Al Pacino were considered, but they all withdrew due to finding the script too dark. Instead, the studio turned to Sylvester Stallone, a younger actor who could embody the weary yet resilient character of Rambo.

However, as the film evolved, the emphasis shifted towards action. They even shot an ending with Rambo's suicide, but discarded it after test screenings. The final product put more focus on the action sequences rather than the original message about the impact of war on soldiers.

Die Hard: From Detective Story to Action Thriller

The character of John McClane in the iconic Die Hard film was initially very different. The original novel had a protagonist named Joe Leland, an aging detective visiting his daughter in a high-rise building when terrorists take over the building. However, Jeb Stuart, the writer of the original screenplay, decided to change the main character to a younger and more relatable hero named John McClane, a New York City cop.

Steven E. de Souza later reworked Stuart's script, adding several new elements that gave the film a more action-packed tone. Notable additions include the ticking time bomb scenario, which became a defining feature of the film. Despite these changes, many of the character-driven elements of Stuart's original script remain, particularly the relationship between McClane and his estranged wife, Holly.

These examples illustrate how the intentions behind classic action movies can shift significantly during the filmmaking process. What began as a character study often evolved into intense, action-focused narratives that have become beloved by audiences worldwide. The enduring appeal of these films lies in the balance between their characters and the action, showcasing the evolution from initial drafts to the final product.