Prime Video's Road House has become a massive hit for the streaming service, attracting a record-breaking 50 million worldwide viewers over its first two weekends. Directed by Doug Liman and featuring a star-studded cast led by Jake Gyllenhaal, the movie is a remake of the 1989 film of the same name.
The plot revolves around Elwood Dalton, played by Gyllenhaal, an ex-UFC fighter who takes on a bouncing job at the Road House in the Florida Keys. He finds himself entangled in a conflict with local crime boss Ben Brandt, portrayed by Billy Magnussen, who seeks to take over the establishment. The film also marks the acting debut of UFC fighter Conor McGregor as Knox, an enforcer working for Brandt's father.
Road House's success on Prime Video has made it Amazon MGM Studios’ most-watched produced film debut ever on a worldwide basis. The film's reception has been met with enthusiasm by Jennifer Salke, head of Amazon MGM Studios, who commended the filmmaking team and cast for their outstanding work.
Despite its streaming success, director Doug Liman had initially envisioned Road House for a theatrical release. However, plans changed when Amazon acquired MGM Studios, leading to the film being distributed exclusively on Prime Video. Liman expressed concerns about the impact of bypassing cinemas for major productions, highlighting the importance of the theatrical experience for tentpole films.
The original 1989 Road House, starring Patrick Swayze, gained a cult following despite initial critical reception. The remake's popularity on Prime Video underscores the potential audience draw it could have had in theaters, particularly with its ties to the UFC and the star power of Gyllenhaal and McGregor.
While the film's release strategy may have differed from the director's vision, Road House continues to captivate audiences on the streaming platform. Fans can enjoy the action-packed ride and stellar performances of the cast, making it a must-watch for both new viewers and fans of the original.
For those interested in experiencing the modern take on this classic story, Road House is available for streaming exclusively on Prime Video.
