This Crime Drama from 'Logan' Director Almost Ruined Sylvester Stallone's Career: "I Was Fired"

Sylvester Stallone will forever be remembered by audiences as the iconic 80s action hero – the invincible Rocky and Rambo.

However, his attempt to break away from this image by playing a dramatic role nearly ended his Hollywood career.

Sylvester Stallone Revealed James Mangold's 'Cop Land' Almost Left Him Jobless

Despite critical acclaim, the 1997 film Cop Land, directed by James Mangold, left Stallone virtually unemployed for a decade.

The paradox of Cop Land is that it was both a triumph of Stallone's acting and a severe blow to his reputation in the industry. In an interview with AARP, the actor spoke about the harsh consequences of this role:

“Nobody wanted me after Cop Land. Even my agents. I was fired from CAA (Agency). My personal manager at the time let me go. He said, 'I can't do anything for you. Nobody really wants you anymore.'

And I go, 'How'd this happen?’… I was told these studios feel as though you're not what you were. Time has passed. Your genre is over. For almost a decade, I couldn't find work.”

Stallone struggled to find decent work for almost ten years, getting by with roles in failed projects until he returned to his roots with Rocky.

What Is 'Cop Land' About?

The small town of Garrison has become a police enclave of sorts, with many law enforcement officers flocking there to live. Although it seems like a peaceful, safe haven, it's actually run by a gang of corrupt cops.

Sheriff Freddy, who is deaf in one ear and disillusioned with life, is content to be a figurehead.

Everything changes when Lieutenant Moe begins an investigation, forcing Freddy to choose between his duty and his false sense of camaraderie with the corrupt cops who have turned the town into their criminal den.

Freddy in 'Cop Land' Is One of the Strongest and Most Atypical Roles in Stallone's Career

Contrary to expectations, Stallone isn't a superhero in this movie. Instead, he plays a depressed, soft, and deeply traumatized man.

Disillusioned with life after an unhappy love affair in his youth, his character spends his evenings at the bar, trying to drown his feelings in alcohol. However, when his conscience is at stake, this broken man awakens to an unexpected strength and determination to fight for justice.

This subtle, restrained performance, built on inner emotion rather than outward physical prowess, is still one of Stallone's most masterful and unexpected transformations.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Cop Land'?

• Cop Land has 75% from critics and 67% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.

• On IMDb, the movie has a score of 7.0/10.

• On Letterboxd, Cop Land scored 3.6/5.0.

Where to Watch 'Cop Land'?

Cop Land is available to stream on Paramount+ and Pluto TV.