Sylvester Stallone is a name synonymous with action cinema, having defined the genre with iconic roles like Rocky Balboa and John Rambo. But even legends have their off days, and Stallone's recent foray into direct-to-streaming thrillers has been a mixed bag. One such film, Armor, which holds a rare 0% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, has unexpectedly become a hit on the free streaming platform Tubi, proving that sometimes audiences are more forgiving than critics.
Armor, released last year, pairs Stallone with Jeff Chase and Josh Wiggins in a heist-gone-wrong narrative that failed to impress critics or audiences during its brief theatrical run, grossing less than $1 million worldwide. Yet, in a twist worthy of a Hollywood script, the film has found a second life on Tubi, where it has surged into the platform's top 10 in the United States and even cracked the top 10 on Starz in several international markets. This unexpected resurgence highlights the unpredictable nature of streaming, where titles can find new audiences long after their initial release.
Stallone's recent track record outside of his television work has been rocky, to say the least. Last year, he starred in Alarum alongside Scott Eastwood and Mike Colter, another action thriller that also earned a 0% from critics. Despite these critical duds, Stallone remains a beloved figure in Hollywood, and his fans are eager to see him in any role, even if the material isn't up to par with his earlier classics.
While Armor may not be the kind of film that will be remembered for its cinematic brilliance, its success on Tubi is a testament to the enduring appeal of Stallone's star power. It also speaks to the growing trend of viewers turning to free, ad-supported streaming services for their entertainment fix, a shift that has breathed new life into many overlooked films.
In the meantime, Stallone is keeping busy with his hit Paramount+ series Tulsa King, created by Taylor Sheridan, which has already aired three seasons and is gearing up for a fourth. The show has been a critical and commercial success, and Stallone recently shared a first look at the upcoming season on his Instagram, though no official release date has been announced yet. Fans are eagerly anticipating the return of the mobster drama, which has become a staple of the streaming service.
Stallone is also set to appear in the upcoming Expendables sequel, where he'll reprise his role as Barney alongside other action heavyweights like Jason Statham. While the franchise has had its ups and downs, it remains a fan favorite for those who enjoy over-the-top, star-studded action flicks.
For those who haven't seen Armor, it's now available to stream for free on Tubi in the U.S., offering a chance to see Stallone in a different kind of role, even if it's not his best work. And if you're in the mood for more suspenseful thrillers, check out our list of the most suspenseful thrillers ever made for some truly gripping viewing.
Stallone's ability to bounce back from critical failures and continue to entertain audiences is a testament to his resilience and enduring appeal. Whether he's playing a washed-up boxer or a gritty action hero, he always brings a certain charisma that keeps viewers coming back for more. As Armor proves, sometimes a film's legacy is written not by critics, but by the audiences who discover it long after its initial release.
