Cynthia Rothrock took centre stage in the China O’Brien films.
Here’s our salute to them…
In 1989, Cynthia Rothrock was relatively unknown to action fans in the west.
Inspector Cindy was an instant hit with eastern audiences.
Even though the department claims its justified, China is devastated.
It all seems idyllic, yet somethings not right.
The local bar is overrun with violence and vice.
The county judge lets criminals walk.
This isnt a romantic drama so obviously she picks the latter and action ensues.
Unexpectedly, this downhomey cowgirl approach is actually one of the best things aboutChina OBrien.
Speaking of the fighting, it really is excellent.
Oh, and bonus Billy Blanks.
All three characters come fully formed and the chemistry between them feels warm, funny and real.
Its intimate and sweet and quite unlike what you normally get from martial arts heroes.
Which leads to another interesting aspect of theChina OBrienfranchise.
It ticks a fair few feminism boxes beyond just the default of having a strong female lead.
China isnt a robotic asskicking machine, shes a character with thoughts and feelings, strengths and weaknesses.
Shes also sexy while never sexualised.
Hell, this film is so feminist it even has a Tori Amos song on the soundtrack!
Tori reckons she was paid $150 to sing it.
Money well spent as its a cracker.
Dont get me wrong.
Whether you come for the story or the fights, you get your moneys worth.
but still remain some of the best youll see in American-made kick flicks of the era.
