In the era of action films likeJohn Wick, the bar for adrenaline-fueled entertainment has been set high.
Doug Liman directs the remake of the classic1989 filmRoad House, which premiered Friday in the Headliner category atSXSW2024.
Unfortunately, this remake starringJake Gyllenhaaldelivers a lackluster and ultimately unnecessary retread of the original Patrick Swayze-starring film.
‘Road House’Amazon/MGM
Central to the movie is Gyllenhaals Dalton, a former UFC brawler grappling with his past.
However, the plot thickens with the entry of Knox (Conor McGregor), a merciless mercenary.
The supporting cast is a clearly talented bunch but is likewise grossly underserved by the script.
They are mostly reduced to plot devices, or in the best light, foils for Daltons journey.
McGregors character gets it the worst.
He has the cartoonish silliness of Yosemite Sam, with none of the charisma.
Moreover, the narrative itself is a shadow of its former self.
The updated version is just a run-of-the-mill action flick that follows a hunky hero who saves the day.
