Sylvester Stallone's 1993 film Cliffhanger is still considered his biggest risk 33 years later. Directed by Renny Harlin, this action classic presents an exhilarating story set in a mountainous region. The film stands out with its stunning landscapes, avalanche scenes, and a plane hijacking involving an international heist plot. Although Cliffhanger is often referred to as "Die Hard in the Mountains," Harlin ensured that both the setting and Stallone's performance were utilized to their fullest potential.

Stallone's action films from the 1980s transformed him into an almost invincible cartoon character. With his broad muscles, perfect hairstyle, and a character who seemed unlikely to lose on screen, Stallone's biggest rival at the time was Arnold Schwarzenegger. While films like Rocky and First Blood contained emotional elements, over time these traits evolved into power fantasies that appealed more to younger audiences. However, Cliffhanger offered a more stylish approach to Stallone's character, making it a production where the script also underwent his traditional rewriting process.

Despite being recognized as an action star, Stallone's background in writing and directing is quite strong. Achieving a major breakthrough with Rocky in 1976, Stallone took all creative aspects of filmmaking seriously. His writing credits in films like Rhinestone, Cobra, and Over the Top during the 1980s demonstrate his competence in this area. As his career experienced ups and downs in the early 1990s, the Cliffhanger project began to take shape gradually. Harlin and Carolco had been working for years on Gale Force, envisioning Stallone as a character protecting a coastal town.