Unpacking the Major Controversies Surrounding the Road House Remake

2024’s Road House remake is already embroiled in two major controversies prior to its release, each presenting distinct issues that could potentially impact the film. The upcoming remake of the 1989 action movie Road House, originally directed by Rowdy Herrington and featuring Patrick Swayze as bouncer James Dalton, is the latest addition to the trend of remakes. Following a lackluster direct-to-video sequel in 2006, Road House is being revitalized with a remake helmed by Doug Liman and starring Jake Gyllenhaal as Elwood Dalton.

The remake of Road House centers around Elwood, a former UFC middleweight fighter who accepts a bouncer position at a roadhouse in the Florida Keys. Elwood's combat skills prove essential as the establishment has been attracting undesirable elements. However, upon arrival, he quickly discovers that the seemingly idyllic setting is fraught with danger and violence. The cast of Road House includes Daniela Melchior, Conor McGregor, Billy Magnussen, and Jessica Williams. The film is scheduled for release on Prime Video on March 21, 2024, despite the controversies it has already sparked.

Why Road House's Streaming Release Is Controversial

Doug Liman & Jake Gyllenhaal have both commented.

Jake Gyllenhaal as Dalton in Road House - Doug Liman & Jake Gyllenhaal have both commented. - Why Road House's Streaming Release Is Controversial

In January 2024, Doug Liman announced his decision to boycott the premiere of his Road House remake. He criticized Amazon for choosing to release the film directly on their streaming platform instead of in theaters. Liman expressed concerns about the future of movie theaters if major films continue to bypass traditional theatrical releases. He emphasized that Road House was specifically designed for the big screen and believed that audiences would prefer to experience it in a theater setting.

Liman explained the importance of movie theaters in generating commercial box office hits, which serve as incentives for studios to invest in original movies and new directors. Without movies being released in theaters, there would be no revenue coming in, making it crucial for the industry. Due to this, Liman decided not to attend Road House’s premiere at SXWS on March 8, 2024.

A report from Variety in February 2024 shed light on the decision-making process behind Road House's release. After being presented to MGM, the film was acquired by Amazon, offering Liman and Gyllenhaal a choice between a $60 million budget and a theatrical release or an $85 million budget for a streaming release. Both filmmakers opted for the latter. Gyllenhaal later spoke out about the situation, expressing his respect for Liman's dedication to filmmakers and theatrical releases. However, Amazon was firm in its decision for Road House to be a streaming release, aiming for a wider audience reach.

Road House Remake's Lawsuit & AI Allegations Explained

Original movie R. Lance Hill has filed a lawsuit.

Jake Gyllenhaal looking serious as Dalton in Road House - Original movie R. Lance Hill has filed a lawsuit. - Road House Remake's Lawsuit & AI Allegations Explained

R. Lance Hill is suing MGM for copyright infringement and alleges the studio used AI to replicate the voices of actors during the 2023 SAG strike.

Ahead of its release, Road House is embroiled in controversy beyond Liman's boycott of his own movie. R. Lance Hill, the original screenwriter of the 1989 version, has filed a lawsuit against MGM for copyright infringement. Hill claims that MGM disregarded his right to reclaim the rights to his 1986 screenplay, which he petitioned for with the U.S. Copyright Office in 2021 before United Artists' claim was set to expire in November 2023.

Hill also accuses Amazon of overlooking his claims and utilizing artificial intelligence to replicate actors' voices for ADR during the 2023 SAG strike to meet the movie's deadline. These allegations tie into the dismissal of producer Joe Silver in November 2023 for verbal abuse, with reports from Variety indicating that Silver raised concerns about Amazon's use of AI in completing Road House, a claim that Amazon has refuted.

Will The Road House Remake Be Impacted By Its Controversies?

The WGA awarded Hill a “story by” acknowledgment in Liman’s remake and the credit “Based on the motion picture ‘Road House,’ Screenplay by David Lee Henry and Hilary Henkin, Story by David Lee Henry.”, but Hill’s suit seeks declaratory relief and to block distribution of the film. Amazon has firmly denied Hill’s accusations, saying that the lawsuit is “completely without merit” and the allegations are “categorically false” as Road House didn’t use AI in place of actor’s voices.

Road House releases March 21 on Amazon Prime.

Road House 2024 Conor McGregor as Knox facing Jake Gyllenhaal's Dalton - Road House releases March 21 on Amazon Prime. - Will The Road House Remake Be Impacted By Its Controversies?

The controversies surrounding Road House may not have a significant impact on the movie and its reception. Despite differing claims from Gyllenhaal and Liman regarding Amazon's clarity, the decision to stream the film can be frustrating, particularly since action movies like Road House are typically best enjoyed in theaters. However, the movie may still find popularity on the platform, despite the drama surrounding its streaming release and Hill's lawsuit potentially deterring viewers.

In the end, Road House seems to have more advantages working in its favor than obstacles. The trailer has garnered positive feedback from audiences, particularly for its action sequences, and there is considerable anticipation to see Conor McGregor portray the antagonist Knox. Despite the controversies it has faced, Road House appears poised to become a successful Prime Video release.

Source: Variety.

Editor's P/S:

The upcoming "Road House" remake has been met with a barrage of controversies even before its release, raising concerns about its potential impact. Director Doug Liman's decision to boycott the premiere over its streaming release highlights the ongoing debate between traditional theatrical releases and the rise of streaming platforms. While Liman advocates for the cinematic experience, Amazon's decision to prioritize streaming accessibility could potentially reshape the industry.

Separately, the lawsuit filed by screenwriter R. Lance Hill alleges copyright infringement and the use of AI to replicate actors' voices. These accusations have been met with denials from Amazon, but they raise questions about the ethical implications of using AI in the film industry and the protection of artists' rights. Despite these challenges, "Road House" benefits from a compelling trailer and the anticipation surrounding Conor McGregor's role. Whether the controversies will overshadow its reception remains to be seen, but they certainly add a layer of intrigue and uncertainty to the film's release.