Jake Gyllenhaal is addressing the controversy surrounding the upcoming action movie 'Road House,' a remake of the 1989 cult classic starring Patrick Swayze. The film, set to launch on Amazon Prime Video in March, has faced criticism from its director, Doug Liman, who has decided to boycott the movie's release due to Amazon's choice not to have a theatrical release.
Despite the backlash, Gyllenhaal has clarified that 'Road House' was always intended for a global streaming release. Sources familiar with the negotiations revealed that the filmmakers were given the option to make the movie for $60 million with a theatrical release or take $85 million for a streaming-only release. They ultimately chose the latter option.
In an interview with Total Film magazine, Gyllenhaal expressed his desire for a wide audience to see the film, acknowledging the evolving landscape of movie distribution and consumption. He emphasized Liman's passion for the project and his belief in its quality, regardless of the distribution platform.
Gyllenhaal, a fan of traditional cinema, also recognized the emotional impact that streaming releases can have on viewers. He highlighted the ability of both theatrical and streaming formats to move audiences and convey powerful storytelling.
Producer Joel Silver reportedly continued to advocate for a theatrical release even after the streaming deal was secured, leading to tensions with the studio. Liman, in a scathing essay on Deadline, criticized Amazon Prime Video for its decision to exclusively stream 'Road House,' expressing concerns about the future of cinema and the impact on filmmakers and actors.
Despite the disagreements, 'Road House' is scheduled to premiere on Prime Video on March 21. The film's release marks a significant moment in the ongoing debate surrounding theatrical versus streaming distribution in the film industry.
