Roadhouse (1989)
Director: Rowdy Herrington
Starring: Patrick Swayze, Kelly Lynch, Sam Elliot, Ben Gazzara
Primary genre: Action
Severely underrated, time has been very kind indeed in Rowdy Herrington’s “Roadhouse”. Elevated to a cult classic status within the “so bad that is good” movie territory, many could argue that “Roadhouse” is nothing more than an old school action flick over-representing all the typical 80s traits in an unapologetic way.
Featuring unnecessarily gratuitous nudity (including Swayze’s gorgeous full naked body), tense homoerotic moments that would impress these days when you take into consideration the time they were written (“I used to f*** guys like you in prison!”), macho fights under a blues-y score, OTT sex scenes and of course, the amazing haircuts of a mallet and hair spray filled decade, “Roadhouse” is a heavenly sent extravaganza.
“Nobody ever wins a fight”
You just cannot take your eyes of it. Having almost a Scorsesian way of explaining how a “cooler” works inside dive bars, you feel invested in James Dalton’s efforts to try and clean up the Double Deuce, an absolute s***hole. Forging meaningful relationships with the town folks, this PhD holder in philosophy (you read that right) and lover of Tai Chi lover and stoicism is not unlikeable at all. Far from it. He has the looks, the brain and the body putting on display for a convincingly badass hero who does not resort in violence unless he really has to. Trained by the legendary kickboxer (Benny “The Jet” Urquidez), Swayze is a convincing action silhouette and relishes his iconic role under witty and sex appeal, 80s icon in full display. Supported by a scene stealing Sam Elliot, you wish you would see more of these two going on bar adventures, their friendship hints at an interesting tale that could have been provided extra backbone to this flick. There is also Kelly Lynch - one of the most unconvincing cinematic doctors in recent memory) but expect her to do nothing more than swooning over our lead.
Yet, the cleaning of Double Deuce becomes second fodder when we are introduced to Ben Gazzara’s wealthy villain who proceeds to intimidate and harass the low class in such blatant disregard that only movie of this caliber can offer. At this point “Roadhouse” loses some of its intrigue, shifting towards a darker and of course, unexplored territory. The escalating violence is wholly unneeded pushing “Roadhouse” towards the traditional revenge tropes and an inevitable banal resolution.
By the time the credits appear, you will be confused but you will be lying if you did not enjoy it. There is no doubt of the film’s capacity for old school entertainment under a glorious soundtrack. With a pedal to the metal 80s vibe, “Roadhouse” stands triumphant for the ultimate night bundle: pizza, coke and pop corn.
Cult classic 80s machoism
+Dalton is a great character
+Sam Elliot’s charisma
+Great soundtrack
+Unintentional homoerotic
+Non pc
+Maximum 80s trademarks
-Maximum 80s trademarks
-Totally unbelievable