On the set of ‘Road House’.Photo:Peter Sorel
Peter Sorel
WhenRoad Housefirst hit theaters 35 years ago, no one could have predicted the fan favorite it has become today. Director Rowdy Herrington attributes the film’s lasting success to its starPatrick Swayze.
“He’s very compelling. He’s handsome and had so many talents,” Herrington says of the actor who died in 2009 at the age of 57 of pancreatic cancer.
“I’m thrilled to put my own spin on the belovedRoad Houselegacy,” Liman said in a previous statement. “And I can’t wait to show audiences what Jake and I are going to do with this iconic role.”
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Swayze had just finishedDirty Dancingwhen he signed on to play James Dalton, a tough bouncer tasked with cleaning up a rowdy Missouri bar.
Herrington says at the time, Swayze wanted to play an action figure. “He was a martial artist and dancer, so choreography was something he picked up quickly,” says Herrington. “He is fun to watch, he could be emotional and funny and strong. He was a terrific person. It was great loss.”
On the set of ‘Road House’.Peter Sorel
Herrington admits when the movie first came out the “reviews were pretty bad.” But over the years, the modern Western, which also stars Kelly Lynch andSam Elliott, has built a cult following.
“A few years back they had a 30thanniversary screening at the Egyptian theater. We watched the film and the audience knew every line,” says Herrington. “It was incredible.”
On the first day of filming, Herrington recalls walking on the set in Simi Valley, Calif. “It was very beat up. The set was going to transform along with Patrick’s influence on the bar,” he says. “It was great fun because of the action and the huge fights.”
As for the new film, Herrington says Gyllenhaal, who plays Dalton, “has some big shoes to fill,” but adds that, “Jake is a terrific actor just like Patrick.”
Road Houseis now streaming on Prime Video.
source: people.com
