Let’s get this out of the way first: There’s a distinct lack of throat-ripping in the new “Road House.”
That might be a bummer to those who adored the well-over-the-top 1989 action flick starring Patrick Swayze. The latest “Road House” (streaming now on Prime Video) features Jake Gyllenhaal as a man named Dalton who, like Swayze’s character, is hired to clean up a rowdy bar where fights and violence erupt nightly.
Comparing the Classics: What’s the same, what’s different?
The general premise carries over, and there are echoes between both movies. Both Daltons enjoy coffee, have anger issues, are trying to move on from a deadly incident in their past, are uncannily good at patching themselves up from nasty wounds, and get friendly with a local doctor. They also share the signature “Road House” line: “No one ever wins in a fight.”
However, the original movie is very ‘80s in terms of its over-the-top vibe, with chair-throwing brawls set in a sweaty honky-tonk. The new “House” is a more scenic affair, with a bar on the water, boats, and even a hungry crocodile. It’s also heavily influenced by mixed martial arts and UFC, since Gyllenhaal’s Dalton goes from being a dangerous fighter in the octagon to breaking bones in a breezy tavern setting.
Who’s the best Dalton: Patrick Swayze or Jake Gyllenhaal?
Swayze’s Dalton – a quiet and philosophical guy with tai chi skills and a guilt complex – is one of the late actor’s most memorable roles. It’s not Gyllenhaal’s usual forte, though he’s done rough-and-tumble before, and the Oscar-nominated star isn’t too shabby an action star. Yet even though they share the same last name, their Daltons are very different personalities.
Swayze’s Dalton is pretty much a throat-ripping urban legend, traveling the country and going where he needs to go for the sake of bar furniture everywhere. But Gyllenhaal’s Dalton, whose first name is Elwood, is a newcomer to the bouncing scene, hired somewhat illogically by bar owner Frankie. Nevertheless, he proves his mettle in power-slapping ruffians and teaching his employees how to handle various weaponed roustabouts.
TESTOSTERONE DRIVEN, TOXIC MASCULINITY AT ITS FINEST!
Hella good time!
Surprised how much I enjoyed it!
You know who surprised me most? CONOR MCGREGOR 💯🤯
#RoadHouse #PrimeVideo pic.twitter.com/QiqfFZoeEQ
— Frank Javier: ALL YOU CAN HORROR @thefrankjavier (@allyoucanhorror) March 22, 2024
Which ‘Road House’ has the better supporting cast?
The original “Road House” offers Sam Elliott as Dalton’s best bouncer friend Wade, and Lynch as a steamier love interest for Swayze. Gyllenhaal’s version features Daniela Melchior as the doctor and a standout performance by Conor McGregor in his first movie role as the charismatic brute Knox.
Road House (2024)
Directed by Doug Liman pic.twitter.com/sv08G6Wlh8
— best of jake (@best0fjake) March 22, 2024
While the first film’s henchmen are typical ’80s-style goons, McGregor’s Knox steals scenes with his villainous charm, maniacal swings of a golf club, and a vicious final battle with Gyllenhaal, showing his bare posterior – a scene reminiscent of Swayze’s antics back in the day.
In essence, the new “Road House” brings a fresh perspective to the cult classic, blending scenic beauty, modern action, and standout performances to create an experience that stands tall alongside its predecessor.
