Movie Summary: Patrick Swayze's "Roadhouse"

Overview

• Patrick Swayze stars as Dalton, the greatest bouncer ever.
• Dalton is hired to clean up a bar in a small town, Jasper, Missouri.
• The movie combines elements of action, comedy, and romance.

Key Characters

• Dalton (Patrick Swayze): Protagonist, a legendary bouncer.
• Brad Wesley: Antagonist, a wealthy and ruthless man who controls the town.
• Sam Elliott: Dalton's mentor and a legendary bouncer.
• Doctor: Dalton's love interest.
• Red: A friendly, local store owner.

Plot Highlights

1. Introduction:

   • Dalton is approached by a bar owner to save his bar.
   • Dalton is wary of flying, showcasing his toughness yet fear of planes.

2. Arrival in Jasper, Missouri:

   • Dalton rents a room at a farm owned by a kind old man.
   • The farm is located near the antagonist, Brad Wesley's home.

3. Cleaning Up the Bar:

   • Dalton fires violent staff and drug dealers.
   • Notable scene: Dalton fires a bartender related to Wesley, leading to tension.

4. Conflict with Wesley:

   • Dalton's car is vandalized.
   • Wesley sends goons to retaliate, leading to bar fights.

5. Love Interest:

   • Dalton develops a relationship with the doctor.
   • Notable scene: "Pain don’t hurt" line indicating Dalton's toughness.

6. Help from Mentor:

   • Dalton calls his mentor, Sam Elliott, for assistance.
   • Elliott arrives and helps deal with Wesley's goons.

7. Escalating Violence:

   • Wesley's attacks intensify; he blows up the farmer's house.
   • The farmer, dressed in red long johns, is saved by Dalton.

8. Final Confrontation:

   • Dalton has a showdown with Wesley’s head henchman, Jimmy.
   • Famous line during the fight: "I used to fuck guys like you in prison."
   • Dalton uses his signature move, ripping out Jimmy’s throat.

Themes and Analysis

• Toughness vs. Vulnerability: Dalton is a complex character, portrayed as tough yet vulnerable.
• Justice and Morality: The film explores themes of justice, as Dalton fights corruption in Jasper.
• Humor and Action: The movie balances humor with intense action scenes, making it a cult classic.

Notable Scenes

• Dalton performing shirtless tai chi by the pond.
• The bar fight where Dalton fires people for misconduct.
• The climactic fight scene leading to the iconic throat-rip.

Audience Reception

• "Roadhouse" is often remembered for its over-the-top action and memorable lines, achieving cult status.
• The film's blend of action, comedy, and romance appeals to a wide audience, despite its exaggerated elements.