The Killing Of A Chinese Bookie

Cassavetes' films can be annoying and enigmatic, but they are usually creative and interesting. Not so with this one. Gazzara (Cassavetes' real-life pal), in hock to local loan sharks, proudly runs a two-bit Sunset Strip night spot. It's an odd club in that it features pageants rather than floor shows with the usual singer, ventriloquist, dancers, et al. Gazzara writes and directs the shows, which include things like "Gunfight at the O.K. Corral." His girlfriend is Johari, one of the performers in the Crazy Horse West (a nod to the Parisian landmark). Gazzara makes his last payment to Ruban, the former owner of the club (and producer of this picture), and then goe...