Sylvester Stallone & Jason Momoa Deliver an Unjustly Overlooked Thriller

Article Summary

Sylvester Stallone's performance in Bullet to the Head showcases a vulnerable and nonverbal version of the actor, reminiscent of his role in Copland.

Directed by Walter Hill, this film is a raw and merciless crime thriller showcasing the dark side of the criminal world in New Orleans. Despite lacking the physical prowess of his younger counterparts, Stallone's character, Jimmy Bobo, defies expectations by blazing a trail for new action heroes and paving the way for the next generation, evident in his gripping fight scenes with Jason Momoa.

It’s easy to underestimate Sylvester Stallone as just an action star, even though his most iconic roles began modestly. It’s easy to overlook the fact that both Rocky and First Blood are simple character-driven dramas that relied on Stallone's emotionally nuanced performances; they just happened to spawn massive action franchises. Stallone's recent work may not have been as exhilarating as before, opting for roles that didn't challenge him as much as an actor. However, Stallone reminded everyone of his exceptional talent with the criminally underrated 2013 thriller Bullet to the Head. While his return to familiar franchises with Rambo: Last Blood and Creed has been thrilling, Bullet to the Head proved that Stallone is still capable of creating new action heroes.

Image via Warner Bros.Bullet To The Head

After watching their respective partners die, a New Orleans hitman and a Washington, D.C. detective form an alliance in order to bring down their common enemy.

‘Bullet to the Head’ Is a Darker Sylvester Stallone Movie

Bullet to the Head takes a departure from Sylvester Stallone's typical New York setting and instead immerses the audience in the gritty and crime-infested streets of New Orleans during its opening sequence. Unlike many of Stallone's characters, Jimmy Bobo, played by Stallone himself, lacks advanced training or combat skills that set him apart from other law enforcement officers. Moreover, Bobo lacks the moral altruism that defined so many of Stallone's previous roles. The opening moments of the film shed light on Bobo's willingness to engage in "dirty work" that rookies or idealists would typically shy away from, further emphasizing his distinct character. While Bobo has dedicated his entire career to his job, not all of his actions can be deemed strictly "heroic."

What sets these opening moments apart is how radically different they are from the majority of Stallone's previous work. Stallone rose to become an iconic action star in the 1980s and 1990s largely due to his portrayal of morally altruistic characters. His larger-than-life heroes were always on the right side of the law, even when resorting to extreme violence, which was seemingly justified within the context of the films. On the other hand, Bobo's motivations are entirely different. He simply strives to survive in a harsh and unforgiving world.

Sylvester Stallone Is Vulnerable in ‘Bullet to the Head'

In Bullet to the Head, Stallone presents a vulnerable side that hasn't been seen since his role in James Mangold's underrated crime thriller Copland. Unlike his performances in films like The Expendables and Get Carter, where he was burdened with cheap and silly one-liners that didn't suit his sensitivity as an actor, Stallone's character in Bullet to the Head, Bobo, is distinctively different but shares a similar quiet sensitivity with Rocky and Rambo. Due to the pervasive corruption within the Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia, Bobo finds it difficult to trust those around him. It's understandable why he chooses not to form personal relationships within the organization.

Walter Hill, a master of crime movies, directs Bullet to the Head. Known for his past classics like The Driver, The Warriors, and the odd sequel Another 48 Hrs, Hill excels at creating gritty, intense fight scenes that capture the film's seedy atmosphere. Bullet to the Head doesn't romanticize its content, instead focusing on the dark and realistic aspects behind closed doors. This film was the perfect fit for Stallone at this stage in his career, recalling his classic crime roles in films like F.I.S.T. and Nighthawks, even while he revisited franchises like Rocky and Rambo.

Stallone's advancing age requires his ego to be kept in check in Bullet to the Head. Although the film maintains the energy of a modern action movie, it reflects that Bobo, Stallone's character, does not possess the physical abilities of a young man. His career in the service has left him with extensive damage to his body, despite providing him with valuable experience. Throughout the film, Bobo often finds himself on the losing side of fights, and even when he emerges victorious, he is left with severe scars. This is a complete departure from Stallone's previous role in The Expendables, where he essentially played a superhero. Bullet to the Head allows him to showcase vulnerability once again.

Sylvester Stallone Passes the Torch to Jason Momoa in 'Bullet to the Head'

Sylvester Stallone, despite feeling vulnerable, has imparted valuable lessons to the next generation of action stars. In the film "Bullet to the Head," he engages in brutal fight sequences with Jason Momoa, known for his role as Aquaman. Momoa plays Keegan, a mercenary hired by crime lord Robert Nkomo Morel to kill Bobo. Bobo seeks vengeance for the death of his partner, Blanchard, as their long-standing partnership generated a sense of loyalty. Determined to hold Keegan accountable, Bobo feels a responsibility towards Blanchard.

The battle between Bobo and Keegan is undoubtedly the highlight of the film. Momoa's performance resembles that of Stallone during the peak of his career. Both characters possess a wickedness and strive to inflict maximum pain on each other. While reminiscent of Stallone's earlier work, Momoa's portrayal allows for a darker interpretation than his previous roles in the DC franchise. It feels like a significant moment, symbolizing the passing of the torch from one action giant to another.

Sylvester Stallone, known as a movie star, receives a considerable amount of recognition. However, his talent as an actor is still undervalued. "Bullet to the Head" demonstrated that the "Italian Stallion" was capable of delivering emotive and compelling performances, showcasing his ability to portray complex and intense characters. Additionally, the fact that he also gets to take down villains is merely an added bonus! You can stream "Bullet to the Head" on Max in the U.S.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I have a few thoughts on the article. First, I think it's great that Sylvester Stallone is still making action movies at his age. He's an icon of the genre, and it's always fun to see him in a new role. I also think it's interesting that he's playing a more vulnerable character in this film. It's a departure from his usual tough-guy persona, and it's refreshing to see him show some different sides of his acting range.

Overall, I think Bullet to the Head is a solid action movie. It's not the best film ever made, but it's definitely worth a watch if you're a fan of Stallone or action movies in general. I'm glad that the article highlighted Stallone's performance in the film, because I think he does a great job. He's still got it, even at his age.