Hey there, fight movie buffs, are you ready to rumble with the latest cinematic showdown? “RoadHouse” is back, packing more punches than the flyweight division. But does it deliver a knockout or fall flat? Let’s dive in.
The Cult Classic That Paved the Way
Before the high kicks and bar brawls of the new “RoadHouse,” there was the 1989 cult classic that started it all. The original “RoadHouse” was a wild ride through the eyes of Dalton, a philosopher-bouncer with a heart of gold, played by the legendary Patrick Swayze. It was a film that danced on the line between so-bad-it’s-good and cinematic gold, with a trophy room of oddities, memorably weird lines, and belly busting bar fights. Critics might have been divided, but fans loved the earnest silliness and Swayze’s performance, turning it into a nostalgic treasure. It’s the kind of movie that, like a great rock anthem, stays with you long after the credits roll. Have they done this classic justice in the remake? Read on.
And new…
In this corner, we have the ex-UFC fighter Dalton, less philosophical and slightly more murderous than the original, played by the ever-charismatic Jake Gyllenhaal. He’s the new bouncer in town, ready to clean up the Florida Keys’ rowdiest bar. But wait, there’s a twist: it’s not just about tossing out the drunks; there’s a bigger fight (real estate developers as usual) outside the bar’s walls.
The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
The first hour is a blast from the past, a B-movie bonanza that’ll have you cheering. But toward the third act it stumbles like a rookie in the ring. The action scenes? Some are spot-on, but others might leave you thinking you’ve switched to a Saturday morning cartoon. I’m thinking the multiple car crashes leaving bodies flying but somehow uninjured.
The Comeback of Conor McGregor
One of the main calling cards of the film for today’s fight fans is the spotlight on the UFC legend, Notorious Conor McGregor. He recently confidently announced his imminent return to mixed martial arts, revealing during the promotional tour for the film that discussions with the UFC for a bout against Michael Chandler this summer are progressing. Despite the natural doubts when he opens his mouth, McGregor assured audiences that plans are in motion. “RoadHouse” might just be the warm-up for McGregor’s next fight.
Conor’s Cinematic Punch
McGregor’s acting chops are very much of a work in progress but his ass is on full display as he brings his mad character to the silver screen. His presence is electrifying, and he’s got that edge that can’t be faked.
The Verdict
“RoadHouse” swings for the fences but doesn’t always connect. It’s a rollercoaster of fun and folly, with Gyllenhaal and McGregor’s performance shining through the chaos. So, if you’re in for a bit of nostalgia mixed with modern mayhem, give it a shot. Just don’t expect a flawless victory.
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“It’s not the size of the dog in the fight, it’s the size of the fight in the dog.” – Mark Twain. Keep your spirits high and your fists ready. 🎸
The new film did hearken to the original with a nice mix up of classic honky tonk type bar music, so while you’re at it, take a listen to Jeff Healey and some classic roadhouse tunes from the original flick.