Stephen King Hails Netflix’s Rebel Ridge as a Thoughtful Rambo

Stephen King endorses Netflix's *Rebel Ridge*, likening it to a more thoughtful *Rambo* and praising it as one of the platform's standout films, potentially boosting its viewership and popularity.
SummaryStephen King has endorsed Netflix’s film Rebel Ridge, which tells the story of a Marine battling a corrupt police department. King compared the film to Rambo, praising it as a more thoughtful and one of Netflix’s best productions. Known for supporting various movies, especially in the horror genre, King’s endorsement carries weight and could draw significant attention to the film, already receiving positive reviews. His comparison to Rambo might intrigue viewers, potentially boosting the film’s popularity and viewership.

Stephen King Endorses Netflix’s Rebel Ridge

Acclaimed author Stephen King has given his seal of approval to Netflix’s film Rebel Ridge. The movie tells the gripping tale of a Marine who stands up against a corrupt police department after officers steal his cousin’s bail money. Aaron Pierre stars as Terry Richmond, who finds himself embroiled in a violent battle against both the law and the controversial practice of civil asset forfeiture. While Rebel Ridge draws inspiration from real-life events, it takes creative liberties in its storytelling approach.

In a recent post on his X/Twitter account, Stephen King likened the film to Rambo, albeit with a more profound narrative. Despite his respect for Rambo‘s author, David Morrell, King believes that Rebel Ridge offers deeper insights and is one of Netflix’s standout productions. He expressed unreserved admiration for the film, offering no caveats to potential viewers. King’s full statement reads:

“REBEL RIDGE: If this is a Netflix original, it’s one of the best. A thinking man’s RAMBO. No diss to David Morrell.”

What Stephen King’s Rebel Ridge Endorsement Means

Stephen King’s Praise Is A Great Sign

Stephen King is well-known for his enthusiastic support of diverse pop culture offerings, frequently sharing his thoughts on social media. Among past endorsements are Strange Darling (2023), Malignant (2021), Evil Dead Rise (2023), and Late Night With the Devil (2023), primarily within the horror genre—a natural fit for the mind behind It, The Shining, and Pet Sematary. Occasionally, however, King ventures into thriller territory, as demonstrated by his commendation of Rebel Ridge.

The film is already garnering favorable reviews from critics, boasting a 95% score on Rotten Tomatoes. While King’s endorsement might not drastically shift public opinion, his recommendation could attract significant attention to the release. With a formidable following of 7.1 million on X/Twitter, King’s words could spark a powerful wave of word-of-mouth promotion, potentially drawing in a whole new audience.

Our Take On Stephen King’s Rebel Ridge Endorsement

King Helps To Provide Legitimacy

The significance of King’s endorsement lies not only in his influential status but also in his specific comparison to Rambo. This comparison could be a compelling draw for audiences, given the franchise’s success, spanning five films and earning $819 million at the box office. By suggesting that Rebel Ridge offers a more thoughtful take akin to Rambo, King may entice viewers eager for a fresh take on such action-packed narratives. His endorsement could indeed usher a new wave of interest to Netflix’s latest offering.

Rebel Ridge Ending Explained

Source: Stephen King (X/Twitter)

Rebel Ridge

  • PG-R
  • Action
  • Crime
  • Drama

Former Marine Terry Richmond travels to Shelby Springs to post bail for his cousin, only to find his savings unjustly seized by a corrupt local police force. With the help of court clerk Summer McBride, Terry uncovers a deep-seated conspiracy and vows to bring justice to the town.

Director
Jeremy Saulnier
Release Date
September 6, 2024
Writers
Jeremy Saulnier
Cast
Aaron Pierre, Don Johnson, AnnaSophia Robb, David Denman, Emory Cohen, Oscar Gale, Reid Williams, Steve Zissis
Character(s)
Terry Richmond, Chief Sandy Burnne, Summer McBride, Officer Evan Marston, Officer Steve Lann, Skinny Guard, Defendant, Elliot
Runtime
131 Minutes
Main Genre
Crime
Kai Nakamura
Kai Nakamura

Kai Nakamura, a striking 30-year-old journalist with a distinctive head of white hair, is a captivating presence in the world of movie journalism. Known for his eloquent prose and deep understanding of film, Kai has established himself as a trusted voice among movie enthusiasts and industry insiders alike.

Hailing from the vibrant city of San Francisco, Kai's passion for cinema was nurtured by his multicultural upbringing and frequent visits to the diverse array of film festivals held in the city. He pursued his love for storytelling at the University of California, Berkeley, where he graduated with a degree in Media Studies, sharpening his analytical skills and fostering a critical eye.

Kai’s work is revered for its thoughtful exploration of film as both art and cultural commentary. His blog, "Celluloid Reflections," offers readers an immersive experience, featuring everything from in-depth reviews of the latest releases to insightful essays on film history and its societal impacts. His unique perspective bridges the gap between mainstream and arthouse cinema, attracting a wide audience.

Outside of his writing, Kai is deeply connected to his cultural roots, frequently engaging in community projects that highlight Asian cinema and promote cross-cultural dialogue. An avid photographer, he captures the world through his lens, often drawing inspiration from the visual storytelling of the movies he loves.

Kai's personal life is as colorful as his professional one. He is an enthusiastic cook, often experimenting with fusion cuisines that reflect his heritage, and he enjoys hosting dinner parties where lively discussions about film abound. An advocate for mental health awareness, he volunteers with organizations dedicated to supporting creatives in overcoming industry pressures.

With his distinctive style and profound insight into the cinematic world, Kai Nakamura continues to enrich the film journalism landscape, inspiring others to see movies not just as entertainment, but as a lens into the human experience.

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