I find most streaming movies to range between mediocre and terrible. But every once in a while, one comes along that surprises me; one that understands what it means to entertain. Road House (2024) is the definition of entertaining.
This is a highly enjoyable and fun action flick. It has a mostly light-hearted tone, but there are a few moments that demonstrate the seriousness; a few looks given by Gyllenhaal that chilled me to the bone.
To continue on that topic, Gyllenhaal gives yet another phenomenal performance. He has this weird demeanor of someone relaxed, chill, and carefree. But there is always something more behind his eyes.
The fight scenes are fantastic. I had my jaw dropped for extended periods. There are so many punches where they focus on letting us see the hit. I don't know how they did it so well.
The other surprise is the humor. I full-volume laughed repeatedly, my favorite being the nice henchman. And it never feels random or forced. Most of the laughs aren't even jokes, but rather situational humor within the action.
One last point of note, I want to thank these filmmakers for having the courage to go for an R-rating. It seems obvious for this type of movie, and for a movie that's not dependent on ticket sales. But I've seen too many movies, even streaming, that opt for the neutered version of their film. A few that come to mind: Rebel Moon, The Gray Man, Samaritan.
I had a blast watching Road House. I think most people will love it. It may not be super deep, but it remembers how to entertain.
(1 viewing, 3/20/2024)
This is a highly enjoyable and fun action flick. It has a mostly light-hearted tone, but there are a few moments that demonstrate the seriousness; a few looks given by Gyllenhaal that chilled me to the bone.
To continue on that topic, Gyllenhaal gives yet another phenomenal performance. He has this weird demeanor of someone relaxed, chill, and carefree. But there is always something more behind his eyes.
The fight scenes are fantastic. I had my jaw dropped for extended periods. There are so many punches where they focus on letting us see the hit. I don't know how they did it so well.
The other surprise is the humor. I full-volume laughed repeatedly, my favorite being the nice henchman. And it never feels random or forced. Most of the laughs aren't even jokes, but rather situational humor within the action.
One last point of note, I want to thank these filmmakers for having the courage to go for an R-rating. It seems obvious for this type of movie, and for a movie that's not dependent on ticket sales. But I've seen too many movies, even streaming, that opt for the neutered version of their film. A few that come to mind: Rebel Moon, The Gray Man, Samaritan.
I had a blast watching Road House. I think most people will love it. It may not be super deep, but it remembers how to entertain.
(1 viewing, 3/20/2024)