The Killing of a Chinese Bookie (1976)

Viewing The Killing of a Chinese Bookie (1976) is like putting yourself into the squeeze of bad luck and questionable decisions as pressed by a clique of rotten friends. A man goes about his honorable business, running a Sunset Strip bar and go-go show. Sure, the impresario falls a little short of common sense and legal currency now and again, but he has buddies to pick up his slack and help foot his tab. Of course, payback is inevitable. Favors are always called in. The compromised borrower finds that interest has been compounded and includes his very soul. Gritty, sad, and compelling, The Killing of a Chinese Bookie is a tragedy with no heroes.