The Killing of a Chinese Bookie (1976)

In the underbelly of Los Angeles, Cosmo Vitelli, a stoic war veteran and proprietor of the risqué Crazy Horse West strip joint, struggles to keep his head above water in the world of high-stakes gambling. His life takes a twisted turn when he clears a longstanding gambling debt, only to plunge back into the depths of financial ruin after losing $23,000 in a poker game. The forces he now owes money to aren't the understanding kind, demanding immediate repayment. Cornered and desperate, Vitelli is offered a chilling ultimatum - erase his debt by assassinating a Chinese bookie. As Vitelli navigates this dangerous proposition, the film oscillates between the ruthless, deceitful world of gamblers and the genuine bonds of friendship and love shared between Vitelli, his dancers, a dancer's mother, and the club's charismatic singer, Mr. Sophistication. "The Killing of a Chinese Bookie" is a gripping exploration of a man's struggle with his own identity and morality. As he's caught in the crossfire between the mob's demands and his personal relationships, Vitelli must confront his true self and make choices that will forever change his life. This riveting tale of debt, deceit, and desperation is a journey into the heart of a man forced to play a game where the stakes are life and death.

The Killing of a Chinese Bookie is a crime movie featuring Ben Gazzara and directed by John Cassavetes.

The Killing of a Chinese Bookie is currently streaming on Criterion Channel, Max and Max Amazon Channel.

It is also possible to buy The Killing of a Chinese Bookie on Amazon Video and Apple TV.