The Killing of a Chinese Bookie

For the record, this review is for the 1978 version of the film, which is the better cut in my opinion. John Cassavettes' use of tight lens shots creates a sense of confusion as to what just happened, which I think is very true-to-life. For instance, when his girlfriend walks in on the audition and attacks the other girl, the audience is left for a moment to guess what exactly happened. When Cosmo shoots the man in the car, initially, we aren't sure what happened. Did he slam the door on him? Did he shoot him? I didn't know if that was a gunshot or what. That is how it truly is when witnessing a split second action that you aren't expecting. Five people can witness a car accident, and undoubtedly, all five witnesses will have a slightly different account of what took place. All will be telling the truth too. Perception is key and my perception of The Killing of a Chinese Bookie is that it is a very unique and truly great film by John Cassavettes. It is one of my favorites. 92/100

The Killing Of A Chinese Bookie is an extremely expressional and almost camera-sloppy work from Cassavetes, which, the rebellion aspect of freedom can be expected in many of his works. The movement of the camera implies that we are in the same state as Ben Gazzara's character in the midst of a terminal night.

A Cult Classic. Really well made all around though it absolutely is an acquired taste. The film does meander but not pointlessly and it 100% isn't mindless and requires you to think. It's a crime flick sure but it's really a character study on not conforming to how society wants you to. The cinematography and acting is classic Cassavettes where you feel like your there as a fly on the wall and in a raw unrefined way. It feels like were capturing real interactions something he really had a gift for. The whole thing is just a vibe too thanks to that specific style. This would not work if this had a different director. The vibes carry through the meandering and get us to the key moments. It's such a unique borderline arthouse type of affiar. It's not as sharp of a script as a Lynch film is but it's much more sophisticated in it's character depth and unique style and message it's trying to convey. The actual murder is really an afterthought. Cassio never acts like how a normal person would but in the context of his character and world it makes sense. this is something that may turn a lot of people off at first and does require you to think or be familiar with the director. I think if your a fan of any actors in this, the director, or offbeat New Hollywood Deep Cuts than give this a try.

Ben Gazzara is one of my favorite actors. Never got his recognition. Great performance. Wonderfully told movie about a strip club owner forced by the mob to commit a murder. Really well made.

A very slow and lingering movie, with very loose editing. That tries on the surface to be a character study. In reality, it's an "accidental" metaphor for John Cassavetes's career. Or rather, how he sees and projects himself after a lengthy experience in show business. Mighty be stretching it. But when you consider Cosmo and Mr. Sophistication as yin and yang of the director's personality the metaphor comes full circle. Since they have to counter balance the desire to give people something beautiful and artistic, yet entertaining in their sleazy act. And at the same time not be crashed by the ruthless people trying squash their dreams for the club in the first place. The result is ambiguous to say the least, even more so when you consider that this entire situation was just Cosmo's own undoing. It's is much more entreating to see this film with this frame of mind, that looking at mobsters setting up their 23k debtor for a certain doom, and then acting surprised when he doesn't die or fail.

What a unique character and what a performance by Gazzara

The audition scene was everything.

Cassavetes always brought out the best in Gazzara, and he really shines here. However, the story meanders a bit.

Hated it Nothing in this keeps you invested It's boring

Fourth Cassavetes film I see (Opening Night, Faces and Woman Under The Influence prior) and the definitely most disappointing so far; by a longshot. Perhaps I missed something, but just couldn't get over the rudderless, stitched-together feel.