Review by Jon Donnis
Road House, helmed by director Doug Liman, revives the spirit of the cult classic with a modern twist, weaving a tale of redemption, camaraderie, and pulse-pounding action. Anchored by Jake Gyllenhaal's compelling portrayal of Elwood Dalton, a former UFC fighter turned reluctant hero, the film plunges viewers into the tumultuous world of the Florida Keys.
Dalton's journey unfolds against the backdrop of "The Road House," a gritty establishment teeming with colorful characters and simmering tensions. Initially hesitant to accept a job as head bouncer, Dalton's decision is catalyzed by a near-fatal encounter with a freight train, marking the first step in his path toward redemption.
As Dalton settles into his new role, he forms an unlikely bond with Charlie, a spirited teen, and Ellie, a compassionate doctor. However, his newfound peace is shattered when he clashes with the ruthless Ben Brandt and his mafia cohorts, setting the stage for a showdown of epic proportions.
The film's strength lies in its unabashed embrace of campiness, delivering a rollercoaster ride of adrenaline-fueled spectacle and genuine emotion. Jake Gyllenhaal's decent performance anchors the narrative, Gyllenhaal is always fun to watch. Word of warning though, Conor McGregor is in the film and if you struggle with understanding strong Irish Accents, then you will struggle to understand him. Oh and he walks around like he has shat his pants, which is always funny.
Yet, the film is not without its flaws. The excessive use of visual effects and CGI in fight scenes occasionally detracts from the gritty realism the film strives to convey. Additionally, while the cast delivers solid performances, this remake will struggle to surpass the legacy of its predecessor for most if not all viewers.
Nevertheless, "Road House" captivates audiences with its charismatic cast, thrilling action sequences, and heartfelt camaraderie. While it may not reach the heights of the original, it offers a nostalgic and entertaining escape into the world of cheesy action cinema.
Overall, "Road House" (2024) earns a fair rating of 6.5 out of 10. It's a commendable effort at reviving the spirit of the cult classic, but falls short of fully capturing its magic. Nonetheless, for viewers seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure filled with action and heart, "Road House" delivers an enjoyable ride.
Out Now on Digital at
Apple TV - https://apple.co/3TKZZlI
Amazon - https://amzn.to/3Pzktvn
