The character of Jack Flowers, played by Ben Gazzara, doesn't seem all that ethical or interesting as the film begins outside the scandalous nature of his occupation. He's a pimp in Singapore, obviously shady, but with a soft spot. His main interaction in this is Denholm Elliott as a rather square British accountant who isn't looking for the type of distraction that Gazzara provides. Gazzara finds himself surrounded by some very interesting characters, eccentrics from all over the world, giving this film some real world color.
The only real storyline that this film has is Gazzara's interactions with Singapore criminal figures who are certainly unforgettable in every way. Gazzara's character has an affinity for corny jokes which keeps the simple-minded clients searching for a cheap good time amused, but the film is intermingled with sudden moments of violence that are rather graphic. A naked john beating up his "date" results in others with their dates running out to rescue her.
It's a cheap subject matter that didn't seem appealing at all at first, but somehow because of the fascinating characterizations (especially Gazzara and Elliott who are both great) it grew on me. Certainly a lot better than director Peter Bogdanavich's big fiascos of the mid 70's, but more of a cult classic than a masterpiece like his earlier films. You'll never look at Asian culture the same way again after seeing this, with Gazzara obviously an influence for the engineer in "Miss Saigon".
The only real storyline that this film has is Gazzara's interactions with Singapore criminal figures who are certainly unforgettable in every way. Gazzara's character has an affinity for corny jokes which keeps the simple-minded clients searching for a cheap good time amused, but the film is intermingled with sudden moments of violence that are rather graphic. A naked john beating up his "date" results in others with their dates running out to rescue her.
It's a cheap subject matter that didn't seem appealing at all at first, but somehow because of the fascinating characterizations (especially Gazzara and Elliott who are both great) it grew on me. Certainly a lot better than director Peter Bogdanavich's big fiascos of the mid 70's, but more of a cult classic than a masterpiece like his earlier films. You'll never look at Asian culture the same way again after seeing this, with Gazzara obviously an influence for the engineer in "Miss Saigon".