This is How ‘Road House’ 2024 is Different From The Orginal

In Amazon Prime Video’s redo of ‘Road House,’ Jake Gyllenhaal steps into the shoes of Patrick Swayze’s iconic character, Dalton. However, these two versions of Dalton aren’t cut from the same cloth. While both are adept at quelling barroom brawls and haunted by past traumas, they diverge in their motivations, backgrounds and personalities, tailored to fit their respective storylines.

The original Dalton was named James, but the remake opts for Elwood and the newer iteration boasts a more muscular build and several tattoos. While paying homage to Swayze’s portrayal, the remake injects fresh elements to keep the narrative engaging. With a focus on action and witty dialogue, the remake seeks to honour the essence of the beloved original while carving its path forward.

Here are some ways in which the 2024 ‘Road House’ is different from the original.

Dalton is a Better Fighter in the Remake

Comparing Jake Gyllenhaal’s Dalton to Patrick Swayze’s older version from 1989 is like comparing apples and oranges—they’re both fighters, but they play by different rules. Gyllenhaal’s Dalton, a former UFC champ, seems more skilled, effortlessly delivering powerful blows like a single throat punch that finishes Vince or breaking Jack’s fingers in a blink.

Even when facing tougher opponents, he emerges victorious. Plus, he’s mentally tough, turning the tables in dire situations. Swayze’s Dalton, while tough, doesn’t face such extreme threats. In a key scene, Gyllenhaal’s Dalton takes on multiple foes solo, while Swayze’s Dalton needs backup against just four. Yet, Swayze’s Dalton has one unique skill: the ability to tear throats—a testament to the wilder 1980s action style.

While Gyllenhaal’s physique might give him an edge, the original ‘Road House’ revels in its over-the-top action, making direct comparisons tricky.

Patrick Swayze’s Dalton Cares More About Injustice

In the original movie, Patrick Swayze’s character, Dalton, shows immense dedication to his job at the Double Deuces in Jasper, Missouri. He sticks around despite risks to his safety because he’s determined to protect the town from the villainous Wesley.

However, in the remake, Dalton, played by Jake Gyllenhaal, lacks the same level of commitment. He’s only in Glass Key for the money and is quick to leave when his safety is at stake. Unlike Swayze’s Dalton, who prioritizes the well-being of the community, Gyllenhaal’s version is primarily concerned with his interests, staying only for personal revenge.

Jake Gyllenhaal’s Dalton is Funnier

In both versions of ‘Road House,’ there’s a lot of humour, with Patrick Swayze delivering witty lines in the original. He’s especially quick with comebacks about his size and shares jokes with other characters. Jake Gyllenhaal’s take on the role maintains this comedic aspect but adds a darker edge. Despite his character’s intensity, Gyllenhaal brings his lighthearted charm to the role, making even serious situations funny.

The movie embraces a broad style of humour seen in recent action films, but Gyllenhaal’s portrayal makes it work, adding levity to intense scenes such as when he comments on double-crossing while on Brandt’s boat. His self-aware humour also shines in interactions where jokes aren’t explicitly made, like when he funnily delivers grim news.

‘Road House’ 2024 Brings Dalton’s Dark Side to the Front

In the original ‘Road House,’ Dalton, played by Patrick Swayze, deals with the aftermath of killing a man in a fight but doesn’t show much inner darkness beyond that. However, in the remake with Jake Gyllenhaal, Dalton’s struggles are portrayed more explicitly.

He battles with violent impulses and fears what he might become if he lets them out. Despite trying to use his abilities for good, he ultimately succumbs to his violent nature to defeat his enemies. While the ending seems victorious on the surface, Dalton’s internal conflict remains unresolved.

Patrick Swayze’s ‘Road House’ Brought in a Main Supporting Character

In the original ‘Road House,’ Dalton relies on his seasoned mentor Wade Garrett for support and guidance. Wade not only assists Dalton in his bouncer duties but also offers friendship and timely advice. However, in the 2024 remake, Jake Gyllenhaal’s Dalton navigates Glass Key without such a confidant, arriving as a solitary figure with a clear past but no ties to anyone or anywhere.

Instead of Wade, new characters like Charlie and her father Stephen play significant roles in Dalton’s journey. Their bookstore being burned down becomes the catalyst for Dalton’s quest for vengeance against Brandt, reminiscent of how Wade’s death propels Patrick Swayze’s Dalton to confront Wesley in the original.

Once Brandt is dealt with, Dalton departs Glass Key alone, leaving the possibility of future sequels with entirely fresh faces.