The Killing of a Chinese Bookie (1976)

Kernel Score: 77% · 284 ratings · Rated R

Genres: Thriller, Crime, Drama

Released: 1976-02-15

Runtime: 135 minutes

Where to watch The Killing of a Chinese Bookie

US availability, updated 2026-10-23.

Overview

Cosmo Vittelli, the proprietor of a sleazy, low-rent Hollywood cabaret, has a real affection for the women who strip in his peepshows and the staff who keep up his dingy establishment. He also has a major gambling problem that has gotten him in trouble before. When Cosmo loses big-time at an underground casino run by mobster Mort, he isn't able to pay up. Mort then offers Cosmo the chance to pay back his debt by knocking off a pesky, Mafia-protected bookie.

The Killing of a Chinese Bookie parents' guide: ages 15+

Parents need to know that The Killing of a Chinese Bookie is an R-rated crime drama involving mob debt, coercion, and a forced killing.

  • Violence & scariness: Strong — Depicts mob coercion, a gunshot wound, and a forced murder tied to gambling debt.
  • Sex, romance & nudity: Moderate — Set in a strip club with striptease performances and female nudity.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official R rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

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Director

John Cassavetes

Cast

  • Ben Gazzara as Cosmo Vittelli
  • Timothy Carey as Flo
  • Seymour Cassel as Mort Weil
  • Robert Phillips as Phil
  • Morgan Woodward as The Boss
  • Al Ruban as Marty Reitz
  • Azizi Johari as Rachel
  • Haji as Haji
  • Alice Friedland as Sherry
  • Derna Wylde as Derna

The Killing of a Chinese Bookie FAQ

Is The Killing of a Chinese Bookie good?

The Killing of a Chinese Bookie has a 77% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 284 audience ratings.

Where can I watch The Killing of a Chinese Bookie?

In the US you can stream The Killing of a Chinese Bookie on The Criterion Channel and HBO Max and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV and Fandango At Home.

Is The Killing of a Chinese Bookie OK for kids?

The Killing of a Chinese Bookie is rated R. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 15+. Parents need to know that The Killing of a Chinese Bookie is an R-rated crime drama involving mob debt, coercion, and a forced killing.