While Cynthia Rothrock has produced a handful of her films, she makes her screenwriting debut with the western Black Creek. Does this mean Rothrock keeps her fists down and just fires a gun the whole time? No, she’s been doing this for a long time and knows her strengths. Writing alongside the martial artist-actor is Robert Clancy and Jeff Gress. Directing this tale of revenge is Shannon Lanier, with Mike Möller overseeing the fight and combat sequences. The movie also reteams Rothrock with Don “The Dragon” Wilson. So, how does her first screenplay hold up against scrutiny?
Robber baron Damien (Richard Norton) and his band of miscreants, including the crazed Chaves (Morgan Frechette) and Arkansas (Greg Tatum), are using violence and threats of death to get farmers to sign over their land. One day, they target the Jennings household, leaving only Katie (Brady Futch) alive. When Rose (Rothrock) rides onto the homestead, she is sickened and angry to learn the fate of her family. Thankfully, her on-and-off significant other Richard (Keith Cooke) has been looking after Rose’s niece. After hearing the whole story, Rose vows to track down everyone involved in her family’s death and make them pay with their lives.
“…Rose vows to track down everyone involved in her family’s death and make them pay with their lives.”
While she handily dispatches a few of the gang, Rose is left for dead in the desert. Roy (R. Marcus Taylor) comes upon her body and takes her to Xiyang (Wilson). The half-Apache/half-Chinese man heals Rose, who is grateful for the help. But she still has killing to do and revenge to have. Why did Damien want her family’s land? Will Rose be able to keep her niece safe?
If nothing else, Black Creek is a prime example of everything that makes Rothrock the preeminent cinematic female martial artist. She’s been steadily acting since the 1980s and rarely disappoints. Are all her films good? No, but she always delivers. Rothrock has a commanding presence that instantly grabs one’s attention. All her skills are put to the test here, and she passes with flying colors. No one will dismiss her determination to avenge the wrongs done to her and her family. Nor could an audience member wave away the simmering emotions the character has. When discussing how Rose and Richard “never worked things out,” it is genuinely heartfelt and sad. Her protectiveness of her niece also comes across as authentic.
"…a prime example of everything that makes Rothrock the preeminent cinematic female martial artist."
