The recent remake of ‘Road House’ has been making waves, not just for its action-packed scenes but for the strong current of nostalgia it carries.
The original ‘Road House’ has long been a cult classic, a guilty pleasure for many, known for its over-the-top action and memorable lines delivered by Patrick Swayze. Now, 35 years later, the remake attempts to capture that same spirit with a modern twist.
Starring Jake Gyllenhaal in the role made famous by Swayze, the new ‘Road House’ brings a contemporary edge to the tale of a bouncer with a philosophy degree. This time, the setting shifts to the Florida Keys, where Gyllenhaal’s character, a former mixed-martial-arts fighter, is recruited to clean up a bar known as The Road House.
The film, directed by Doug Liman, known for ‘The Bourne Identity’, showcases kinetic fight sequences that are both fast and brutal. Gyllenhaal’s performance adds a layer of smart-alecky charm to the character, though the plot surrounding his dark secret and desire to shackle his vengeful side is seen as somewhat trite.
Despite the changes, the remake stays true to some elements from the original, including the attractive emergency-room doctor who tends to the injuries Dalton inflicts, and the villainous businessman determined to take over the property. UFC champion Conor McGregor makes an appearance as well, bringing a physical swagger to the screen, though his acting chops may still be a work in progress.
Critics suggest that while the remake mirrors the appeal of the original, it doesn’t quite match it. However, the nostalgia factor combined with the updated elements could have given it a fighting chance to punch above its weight class at the box office.
Whether it clears the bar set by its predecessor is up for debate, but one thing is certain: ‘Road House’ continues to bounce along on a wave of nostalgia, updating a guilty pleasure for a new generation of viewers.
