GANG OF ROSES (2003)

This postmodern Western—or as La Marre calls it, a revisionist, hip-hop Western—revolves around four tough, fast-shooting women, three African Americans and one Asian, setting out on the trail of vengeance for a gang who murdered Rachel’s (Monica Calhoun) sister. The women have a history of robbing banks and are known as the gang of roses. The plot matters little, however, since the focus is on the urban style with which the women carry themselves. Popular hiphop singer Lil’Kim plays one of the gang members and hip hop plays on the soundtrack. The film is usually associated with Brothers in Arms (2005), also directed by Jean-Claude La Marre.

See also HISTORICAL AUTHENTICITY; PUNK WESTERNS.