It can be hard to tackle a beloved classic film and try to give it a new spin. Especially when that film features an iconic lead performer. That’s the case with Road House, a quintessential 1980s action film with a smoldering lead performance from the late Patrick Swayze. His performance—and the film itself—have endured with audiences for decades.

And yet, the new Prime Video re-make, which debuts today, finds a way to re-tell the story and make it something new. It puts Jake Gyllenhaal in the lead and gives us an equally memorable and fierce character in a new and engaging story.

In this version, Dalton (Gyllenhaal) is a former UFC fighter who earned a reputation after going too far in one of his fights. Now, he’s feared by those who know him. But he becomes a target for Frankie (Jessica Williams), who owns a Roadhouse in the Florida Keys that is the subject of a constant stream of fights. She wants her business to flourish with a little class and believes Dalton can get the job done.

While he’s reluctant at first, soon he finds himself drawn to the opportunity. It doesn’t take long for him to make his presence felt. Turns out, the issues at the Roadhouse are more than just rowdy guests. A local businessman, Ben Brandt (Billy Magnussen), is trying to run Frankie out. He has big plans and isn’t afraid to use some unsavory means.

When his initial plans are rebuffed, Billy’s father calls in Knox (Conor McGregor), a man without any limits. It sets a confrontation between two skilled and brutal fighters that will determine the future of the Roadhouse and this little town.

Director Doug Liman does a nice job bringing this film together. The look is strong, and the action sequences are crisp. The fights move at a good pace and are visually interesting. The film also moves at a good pace and showcases its Florida location.

But what sells it are the performances. McGregor, best known as an actual UFC fighter, does a nice job of creating a menacing foil for our hero. He’s brash and aggressive and he seems to be having fun in the role. The rest of the supporting cast is solid, too. I particularly enjoyed Williams, who seems to be having fun as the Roadhouse owner.

But it all comes down to Gyllenhaal. It’s hard to take over a part made famous by another actor, but Gyllenhaal finds a way to make his Dalton unique. He’s still menacing and looks the part, but he brings a different energy and a different quality to the film.

Road House isn’t a film that needed a re-make or an update. And yet, this new version makes the story its own and delivers a satisfying action film. It’s worth checking out on Prime Video.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.

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