A Road House Review: 2024 Most Absurd Film? You Decide
In Doug Liman’s remake of the 1989 Patrick Swayze classic, “Road House,” Jake Gyllenhaal takes centre stage as Dalton—a character who’s part bouncer, part martial artist, and all-around enigma. Buckle up for a wild ride through a Florida roadhouse where alligators roam; the sheriff goes by the name “Big Dick,” and sanity takes a vacation.
The new “Road House” remake’s cast gathered at the Paramount Theater in Austin for a lively Q&A to kick off the 2024 SXSW Film & TV Festival. They thanked director Doug Liman, who remained seated among the enthusiastic crowd. Liman, known for “Edge of Tomorrow,” had initially protested the film’s premiere and had considered skipping the event altogether due to a dispute with Amazon MGM Studios, who decided to release the movie on their streaming platform against his wishes.
Despite Liman’s absence, the atmosphere was electric, with thunderous applause filling the room as the rowdy South by Southwest crowd seemed to revel in the spirit of the new “Road House.” This reimagining of the 1989 Patrick Swayze feature promises a fresh take on the original, which starred Swayze as Dalton, a Missouri bar bouncer facing off against corrupt forces.
Upon revisiting the original film, some viewers found its depiction of bar antics and character behaviours to be outdated and problematic. From scenes involving inappropriate dares to questionable wardrobe choices, the film’s 1980s sensibilities may not align with modern audiences’ expectations. Director Doug Liman’s adaptation addresses these concerns while retaining the essence of the original story.
Jake Gyllenhaal steps into the role of Dalton, now reimagined as a former UFC middleweight fighter defending the Florida Keys. His character finds himself embroiled in a battle against a criminal element operating within the bar, led by the wealthy and smarmy Ben Brandt, played by Billy Magnussen. As Dalton faces off against Brandt’s goons, he encounters a formidable opponent in Knox, portrayed by UFC champion Conor McGregor.
The new “Road House” boasts an ensemble cast, including Jessica Williams as Frankie, the owner of The Road House, and Daniela Melchior as a mysterious doctor with secrets of her own. Together, they navigate a world of violence, corruption, and unexpected twists.
Despite its flaws, the film embraces its over-the-top nature, with extreme violence and quick cuts adding to the adrenaline-fueled action. Gyllenhaal shines as the conflicted hero, while McGregor delivers a memorable performance as the unhinged antagonist Knox.
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While “Road House” may not be a perfect film, it succeeds in delivering an entertaining and action-packed experience. The ensemble cast brings energy and charisma to their roles, elevating the film beyond its shortcomings.
Ultimately, “Road House” is a wild ride that embraces its absurdity. Liman’s direction keeps the audience engaged, even as the plot ventures into unexpected territory. Despite its unconventional release, the film will find an audience eager to experience its blend of action, humour, and larger-than-life characters.
A Road House Review
Here’s the lowdown on this delightfully absurd film:
Setting the Scene:
Frankie (played by Jessica Williams) inherits a Florida roadhouse from her late uncle. His quirky sense of humour led him to name the establishment “The Road House” and his houseboat “The Boat.”
Unfortunately, Frankie’s dreams of running a peaceful oasis are shattered by nightly bar fights, vandalism, and general chaos caused by local troublemakers.
Enter Dalton, the most demanding guy on the streets (naturally portrayed by Post Malone). Frankie recruits him as her head of security, hoping he’ll restore order.
Dalton’s Unusual Skill Set:
Dalton is so muscular that even full-on stabbings can’t hurt him (only his guilt about being too much of an alpha male). He’s a former UFC fighter, ready to clean up the roadhouse mess.
But wait, there’s more: Conor McGregor plays a criminal who inexplicably strolls down the street fully naked in his first scene.
Sheriff “Big Dick” and Crocodile Shenanigans:
Yes, you read that right. The sheriff introduces himself as “Big Dick.” Dalton’s partnership with a crocodile adds an unexpected twist. Meanwhile, the Florida Keys became a modern-day version of 1800s Australia, where unhinged criminals ran wild.
No Rational Moments Allowed:
This film teeters on the edge of insanity, and that’s precisely its charm. A grain of sanity would short-circuit the story like a speck of sand in a microchip. Fortunately, the filmmakers spare us from rationality, allowing us to revel in the asininity of this mildly entertaining hangout movie.
In summary, “Road House” is a wild ride where logic takes a backseat, and absurdity reigns supreme. Jake Gyllenhaal’s performance, alongside crocodiles and a sheriff named “Big Dick,” ensures that this film is a contender for 2024’s silliest—and most entertaining—flick.
