Black Creek (2025) - Film Review

      Black Creek, 2025.

      Directed by Shannon Lanier and Mike Möller.

      Featuring Cynthia Rothrock, Richard Norton, Don “The Dragon” Wilson, Patrick Kilpatrick, Keith Cooke, R. Marcus Taylor, Eliza Kelley, Brandy Futch, Benny Urquidez, and Keith Vitali.

      SYNOPSIS

      A sheriff’s sister seeks vengeance against the menacing leader of a gang of outlaws after she discovers that he brutally murdered her brother, his wife, and other family members in a harsh southwestern town.

      Recently, there has been a bit of a nostalgic resurgence for Cynthia Rothrock. Her mention on Cobra Kai during its penultimate season hinted at a potential guest appearance, though that never materialized. Nevertheless, the recent retro-style action film The Last Kumite showcased Rothrock's talents. Additionally, Lady Scorpions was a commendable direct-to-streaming movie featuring Rothrock and her on-screen daughter teaming up to rescue her granddaughter.

      This resurgence coincides with a delightful recent wave of Blu-ray reissues of some of Rothrock's classic films from her prime in Hong Kong as well as her peak in Western video stores. After experiencing a few years away from the spotlight with sporadic appearances, it’s refreshing to see Rothrock return to a prominent role, doing what she does best—delivering powerful kicks.

      Last year, she opted to take more control of her career and became the creative force behind Black Creek. Co-writing and producing this film, which emerged from a successful crowdfunding effort, it has become a passion project for Rothrock. The key question remains: has this made an impact?

      Cynthia channels her inner Clint Eastwood, blended with Bruce Lee (or perhaps just her own persona). She portrays a tough, no-nonsense gunslinger skilled with firearms, fists, and feet. She returns to town to find her Sheriff brother and most of his family have been massacred, but upon realizing her niece is still alive, her quest for revenge becomes one of rescue as well. Her primary target is Sinclair, played by the late Richard Norton, a frequent collaborator.

      The film effectively utilizes its Wild West town setting, rarely straying beyond it (apart from suitably dusty locations). The cinematography features a nice amber tone, and the costumes help convey the period. Occasionally, the film shows its low budget and likely tight shooting schedule (as is often the case), revealing some roughness, yet it also exudes a charming grindhouse feel that works well overall. It has a vibe reminiscent of films like Death Proof, Machete, Hobo with a Shotgun, and Planet Terror. Rothrock’s opening line sets the tone: “What are you chicken fuckers doing on my brother’s property?” as she approaches a group of thugs who are soon to be dealt with.

      In addition to Rothrock and Norton, the film features performances from Don “The Dragon” Wilson (in a Miyagi-like role), Keith Cooke, Patrick Kilpatrick, Benny “the Jet” Urquidez, and Keith Vitali—each with varying degrees of experience as on-screen fighters (as well as their real-life martial arts skills). The movie boasts a wealth of late 80s and early 90s direct-to-video talent, evoking the nostalgia of video rental stores. Each actor has their moment to shine, but Norton particularly thrives in his villainous role. The dynamic between Rothrock and Norton is unmistakable; they are the Torvill and Dean of action.

      As for Rothrock, the reigning Queen of action, she continues to impress. Her fight sequences are the film’s highlights, particularly her confrontation with Norton, which showcases a variety of her skills, including weapons handling and her trademark Rothrock stinger—used brilliantly here. Some of the fights involving supporting characters or large brawls may not quite land, possibly due to time constraints, some rushed editing, and the inherent challenges of delivering roles as crowdfunding rewards. Often (as I've experienced), there is a sense of awkwardness that comes with roles purchased through crowdfunding, but it is what it is.

      Fans of 90s B-movies, martial arts cult classics, and grindhouse action are likely to enjoy this film. It wisely maintains a lighthearted tone while also incorporating genuine warmth and sincerity when necessary. Is this Rothrock’s greatest work? No, but it might be the project into which she has invested the most since her early days in Hong Kong cinema 40 years ago. She convincingly delivers the action here more effectively than many of her male contemporaries have of late. Despite its rough edges and lengthy runtime, the film strikes a balance and provides a fun experience—ideal for a Friday night with pizza and beer, and it's still a joy to watch Rothrock in action.

      Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★

      Tom Jolliffe