Sylvester Stallone’s little-known first movie returns to theaters after more than 50 years

Robert “Rocky” Balboa. John J. Rambo. Ranger Gabriel “Gabe” Walker. Judge Joseph Dredd. Depending on your age, the earliest memory you have of Sylvester Stallone starring in a movie may have been one of those classic character names. But returning to theaters this month is a movie involving the A-list Hollywood star as the much-lesser known Jerry Savage. Any ideas?

What Stallone movie is being rereleased?

For decades, Stallone’s early film career has been framed by two highlights: the soft‑core cult classic The Party at Kitty & Stud’s and the Oscar‑winning powerhouse Rocky. But in between, there’s a nearly forgotten oddity that few remember as his first major on‑screen role… until now.

Back in 1973, Stallone starred in No Place to Hide, later retitled Rebel. He plays the aforementioned Savage, an anti‑war radical in 1969 New York. The plot follows his journey from urban unrest to rural romance, all while FBI pressure mounts. You could say it’s a curious mix of political thriller and love story.

The film was micro‑budgeted and self‑funded by Robert Schnitzer. Premiering at the Atlanta Film Festival in 1973, it barely made a ripple. Schnitzer briefly re‑edited and retitled the work Rebel after Rocky exploded in 1976, followed by an ill‑fated makeover as a comedy in 1990 called A Man Called… Rainbo. Neither cashed in.

Rebel: Director’s Cut – remastered Stallone

If you’re wondering why the revival is happening now, decades later, then you’re not alone. Schnitzer reclaimed the rights around 2000 and undertook a complete restoration. Now titled Rebel: Director’s Cut, the film arrives in a crisp 4K remaster with upgraded stereo audio, enhanced visuals, and subtle tweaks Schnitzer always wanted. This version hit select arthouse cinemas, and went on‑demand, on June 6, 2025.

As reported by IndieWire, the tour got going at Brain Dead Studios in Los Angeles. with Schnitzer in attendance and taking questions. For Stallone enthusiasts, film buffs, or simply curious viewers, it’s a chance to see a different side of Sly: contemplative, vulnerable, caught in history, and miles away from the Rocky and Rambo that he was to be defined by in the years that followed.

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