I watched Road House and I liked it. 3.5/5
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“Road House,” directed by Rowdy Herrington and released in 1989, is an action-packed film that embraces its over-the-top premise with unabashed enthusiasm. Starring Patrick Swayze as the enigmatic bouncer Dalton, this cult classic revels in its campy charm and macho bravado. While not a cinematic masterpiece by any stretch, “Road House” delivers an entertaining ride full of bar brawls, cheesy dialogue, and memorable one-liners, earning a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars.
The film centers on Dalton, a legendary “cooler” (head bouncer) who is hired to clean up the Double Deuce, a rowdy bar in the small town of Jasper, Missouri. Dalton’s reputation precedes him, and he quickly finds himself embroiled in a battle against the corrupt local businessman Brad Wesley (Ben Gazzara), who has a stranglehold on the town. With his stoic demeanor and martial arts skills, Dalton becomes the unlikely hero standing up against Wesley’s reign of terror.
Patrick Swayze’s performance as Dalton is the heart and soul of “Road House.” Swayze brings a unique blend of stoicism and vulnerability to the role, making Dalton a compelling and somewhat enigmatic character. His cool, Zen-like approach to the chaos around him, combined with his undeniable physical presence, makes for an iconic performance that elevates the film beyond its B-movie roots. Swayze’s charisma shines through, and his ability to deliver both action and quieter, introspective moments adds depth to an otherwise straightforward character.
The supporting cast is a mixed bag, but there are standout performances that add to the film’s appeal. Sam Elliott, as Dalton’s mentor and friend Wade Garrett, is effortlessly cool and provides a grounding presence amidst the mayhem. His chemistry with Swayze is palpable, and their camaraderie adds a layer of authenticity to the film. Ben Gazzara’s portrayal of the villainous Brad Wesley is delightfully hammy, with a performance that is both menacing and cartoonish, perfectly fitting the film’s tone.
Visually, “Road House” is a product of its time, with its neon-lit bar scenes and a heavy dose of 80s aesthetic. The fight choreography is well-executed, with Swayze’s background in dance and martial arts lending a fluidity to the action sequences. The film’s climactic showdown is a highlight, showcasing Dalton’s skills in a satisfying and brutal final confrontation.
However, “Road House” is not without its flaws. The plot is formulaic and predictable, with a simplistic good-versus-evil narrative that lacks subtlety. The film’s pacing can be uneven, with some scenes dragging on while others rush through key moments. The dialogue, while often memorable, is laden with clichés and lacks the sophistication of more polished scripts.
The film’s treatment of its female characters is also problematic by today’s standards. Kelly Lynch’s role as Dr. Elizabeth Clay, Dalton’s love interest, is underdeveloped and relegated to the sidelines for much of the film. Her character serves primarily as a plot device to motivate Dalton, rather than as a fully realized individual. This is indicative of a broader issue with the film’s handling of gender dynamics, which can feel dated and out of step with contemporary sensibilities.
Despite these shortcomings, “Road House” succeeds in what it sets out to do: provide an entertaining, action-packed romp with a charismatic lead and a healthy dose of 80s nostalgia. The film’s unapologetic embrace of its own absurdity is part of its charm, and its iconic moments have cemented its place in pop culture history. From Dalton’s philosophical musings on fighting to the infamous line, “I want you to be nice until it’s time to not be nice,” “Road House” is a film that knows exactly what it is and revels in it.
In conclusion, “Road House” is far from perfect, but its sheer entertainment value and Patrick Swayze’s magnetic performance make it a memorable watch. Its blend of action, humor, and campy charm earns it a respectable 3.5 out of 5 stars. For fans of 80s action films and those looking for a fun, escapist experience, “Road House” delivers in spades.