Road House (1989) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Directed by Rowdy Herrington, Road House (1989) is a cult classic action film known for its high-octane brawls, memorable one-liners, and star-studded cast. Featuring Patrick Swayze, Sam Elliott, and Kelly Lynch, the film combines martial arts action with a dramatic story of redemption. With its iconic bar fights and charismatic performances, Road House has become a beloved entry in the action genre. This review will explore the film’s key elements and provide information on where to watch it online, especially in the U.S.
Plot Summary
Road House follows James Dalton (Patrick Swayze), a renowned “cooler” (a bouncer with a knack for defusing bar fights) who is hired to clean up the notorious Double Deuce, a rough and rowdy bar in a small town. Dalton’s task is to bring order to the establishment and restore peace to the town, which is plagued by a corrupt businessman named Brad Wesley (Ben Gazzara).
As Dalton works to improve the Double Deuce, he encounters various challenges, including violent confrontations with Wesley’s henchmen and a complicated romance with Dr. Elizabeth Clay (Kelly Lynch). The film’s action-packed sequences and Dalton’s quest for justice drive the narrative, leading to intense and dramatic showdowns.
Patrick Swayze’s Performance
Patrick Swayze delivers a charismatic and commanding performance as James Dalton. His portrayal of the skilled and principled bouncer brings both toughness and depth to the character. Swayze’s physical prowess and screen presence contribute significantly to the film’s action sequences and overall appeal.
Sam Elliott’s Role
Sam Elliott plays Wade Garrett, a seasoned cooler and Dalton’s mentor. Elliott’s performance adds a layer of experience and wisdom to the film, providing a strong and supportive presence. His chemistry with Swayze enhances the film’s dynamic and contributes to its emotional and dramatic moments.
Kelly Lynch’s Role
Kelly Lynch portrays Dr. Elizabeth Clay, a local physician who becomes romantically involved with Dalton. Lynch’s performance adds a romantic subplot to the film, providing emotional depth and a personal stake in Dalton’s mission. Her role also contributes to the film’s dramatic and character-driven elements.
Rowdy Herrington’s Direction
Rowdy Herrington’s direction ensures that Road House maintains a high-energy and action-packed tone throughout. His approach to the film combines intense fight scenes with character-driven drama, creating a narrative that is both thrilling and engaging.
Herrington’s direction effectively balances the film’s action and emotional elements, providing a well-rounded and entertaining viewing experience.
Themes of Redemption and Justice
Road House explores themes of redemption and justice through Dalton’s quest to bring order to the Double Deuce and confront the corrupt forces in the town. The film delves into the idea of standing up for what is right and seeking justice in the face of adversity.
These themes add depth to the story and enhance the film’s action and dramatic moments.
What Works Well
The film’s action sequences and fight choreography are major highlights. The intense and well-executed brawls, combined with Swayze’s physical performance, contribute to the film’s appeal and excitement.
Patrick Swayze’s charismatic performance, along with the supporting roles of Sam Elliott and Kelly Lynch, adds depth and dimension to the film. Their interactions and character development enhance the film’s narrative and emotional impact.
What Falls Short
Some viewers might find the film’s plot to be formulaic or its characters to be one-dimensional. The reliance on action clichés and the predictable narrative might limit the film’s appeal to those seeking more innovative storytelling or complex character development.
The film’s melodramatic elements and over-the-top action sequences might also feel dated or exaggerated to some viewers.
Where to Watch Road House Online
For viewers in the United States, Road House is available on various streaming platforms and for rental/purchase through online retailers. The film can be accessed through the following services:
- Amazon Prime Video
Road House may be available for purchase or rental on Amazon Prime Video, where it can be streamed in HD or SD formats. - Apple TV (iTunes)
The film might be available for rent or purchase on Apple TV (iTunes), with options for download and offline viewing. - Google Play Movies & TV
Road House may be available for rental or purchase on Google Play Movies & TV, accessible on a variety of Android devices. - Vudu
Vudu offers the film for rent or purchase in HD, providing high-quality streaming options for viewers. - YouTube Movies
Road House could be available for rent or purchase through YouTube Movies, allowing streaming on any device that supports YouTube.
Is It Worth Watching?
Road House (1989) offers a thrilling and entertaining action experience, with strong performances from Patrick Swayze, Sam Elliott, and Kelly Lynch. The film’s high-energy fight scenes and dramatic storyline provide a compelling watch for fans of the genre.
While the film’s plot and characters may feel familiar or dated to some, its action sequences and charismatic performances make it a worthwhile choice for viewers seeking an action-packed and nostalgic experience.
Conclusion
Road House (1989) delivers an exciting and action-filled experience, directed by Rowdy Herrington and featuring performances from Patrick Swayze, Sam Elliott, and Kelly Lynch. The film’s blend of action, drama, and charismatic performances provides an entertaining viewing experience. Available for streaming and purchase on various platforms, Road House offers a classic action film experience for fans and newcomers alike.
