Road House (1989) Review in 2025
A tough-as-nails bouncer with a philosophy degree must clean up a rough roadside bar, while also dealing with his own personal demons.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for young children due to mature themes and violence.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for fans of action and drama, particularly those who enjoy gritty and realistic storytelling. It's also a great choice for anyone looking for a fun and entertaining summer blockbuster.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie follows Dalton, a former philosophy professor turned bouncer, who takes a job at the Double Deuce, a rough and tumble roadside bar. As he tries to clean up the bar and its patrons, he must also confront his own troubled past and the dark secrets of the bar's owner, Brad Wesley.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear structure and a satisfying resolution. However, it's not particularly original or memorable.
acting8.00/10
The acting is generally strong, with Patrick Swayze delivering a particularly memorable performance as Dalton. However, some of the supporting actors feel a bit miscast.
characters8.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Dalton being a particularly interesting and relatable protagonist. However, some of the supporting characters feel a bit one-dimensional.
direction7.00/10
The direction is solid, with some effective action sequences and a good sense of pacing. However, the film's tone can be a bit inconsistent at times.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is excellent, with a great use of lighting and camera angles. The film's visual style is gritty and realistic, which suits the tone of the story.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie's engaging story, well-developed characters, and excellent cinematography make it a compelling watch. Patrick Swayze's performance is particularly memorable, and the film's action sequences are well-executed.
Cons
The movie's tone can be a bit inconsistent at times, and some of the supporting characters feel a bit one-dimensional. Additionally, the film's themes and violence may not be suitable for all audiences.
Notable Quotes
"I want you to be nice until it's time to stop being nice."
"You're not a bouncer, you're a philosopher with a punch."
