Book of Numbers
Book of Numbers

Movie spotlight

Book of Numbers

1973
Movie
81 min
English

Two waiters in Depression-era Arkansas get involved in the numbers racket.

Insights

IMDb6.4/10
Director: Raymond St. JacquesGenres: Crime, Drama

Plot Summary

In this gritty crime drama, a former boxer is released from prison and drawn back into the underworld of numbers running. He finds himself entangled with a shrewd kingpin and a dangerous game of loyalty and betrayal. As he attempts to build a legitimate future, the past continually threatens to pull him back into the cycle of crime and violence.

Critical Reception

While "Book of Numbers" was not a major commercial success, it garnered attention for its raw portrayal of Black life in urban America and its exploration of organized crime within that community. Critics noted its authentic feel and strong performances, though some found the pacing uneven. It is often remembered as an important, albeit overlooked, film from its era.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its authentic portrayal of inner-city crime and exploitation.

  • Noted for strong performances, particularly from aliran King.

  • Seen as an important, though somewhat overlooked, film focusing on Black community issues.

Google audience: Audience reception for "Book of Numbers" is difficult to ascertain through aggregated Google reviews as it is not widely discussed on the platform. However, the film is generally appreciated by those who have seen it for its realistic depiction of the struggles within the Black community and its compelling narrative.

Fun Fact

The film was directed by actor Raymond St. Jacques, who also starred in the groundbreaking 1969 blaxploitation film 'Change of Mind'.

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