User reviews

Singapore 1973 – Jack Flowers (Gazzara) a worldworn drifter, has finally found his niche. He is a small-time pimp, eking out a living arranging liaisons for jaded ex-pats and burned-out GIs. Everybody knows Jack and everyone likes him – a situation that changes rapidly when he decides to open his own house of ill repute.

Saint Jack is Peter Bogdanovich's most accomplished film. Made long after his Hollywood star had waned it is a low-key, character driven piece full of memorable scenes and performances. The Singapore it depicts is long gone, buried under acres of concrete and glass. The world Jack Flowers' inhabits is old school orient - sampans, alleyways, bustling markets and street hustlers. Denholm Elliot excels as the bemused, vaguely melancholy accountant Jack takes under his wing. Rodney Bewes and Joss Ackland do memorable turns as aimlessly Englishmen abroad. Former James Bond George Lazenby puts in an appearance as a slimy US senator and director Bogdanovich plays a CIA operative.

For a movie produced by Roger Corman and Hugh Hefner it's far from the exploitation fare its subject matter might suggest. Photographed by the great Robby Muller and based on a novel by Paul Theroux it's well worth a look. 8/10

**Also recommended for fans of this movie is "Kinda Hot: The Making of Saint Jack in Singapore" by Ben Slater (ISBN: 9812610693) - a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the making of the film.

It has been more than a week since i last watch Saint Jack, the after effects of it still lingers. That shows it is not an ordinary film.

I went into the theatre without much expectation, when the film starts with the opening credit rolling, i sat up very straight, devouring the fascinating font selected. The long tail of each font stretching beyond its normal alignment gives me a hint that this is going to be a different experience. This is not the usual crappy 70s sleazy film made. There is a humour exuding even from the font. Its gonna be interesting.

As Jack walks into the Chinese shophouse and greeted by a young Indian chap who talks and spray mosquito around him, i found myself unable to hide my humored smile behind the dim theatre. Such fascinating and improvisational like mis en sense repeats throughout the entire film.

The 70s is an era which i was born into. I was too young to have a vivid memory of it. When the landscape and the people scape were unfolded in front of me, instinctively i feel this film is depicting a rather accurate portray of my country. Although the film revolves around the character of pimp, Jack Flowers, Jack is not the only main role. Singapore is in fact the other protagonist. All the caricatures of small roles that appears throughout the film etches a multicultural developing nation with an array of characters that Jack immensely enjoy interacting with. It is the same feeling whenever i visit other developing country.... fascinating.

Honestly, i think the plot is thin. but the rich characters made up for everything. It is an underrated film that has finally seen its daylight (in Singapore). the delightful feeling is an accidental discovery of a film treasure that records an era with so much nuances and humour.

The Marking of Saint Jack:Kinda Hot. A book written by Ben Slater adds even more fun to the entire experience.

Chatty, engrossing character portrait, adapted from Paul Theroux's novel by Howard Sackler, Theroux and director Peter Bogdanovich, regarding Jack Flowers, a good-natured, middle-aged American living in early 1970s Singapore; he's a pimp who loves people and enjoys servicing his international clientele of businessmen with a colorful assortment of women, but recent events--a violent shakedown by the competition, also the death of a good friend--has caused him to rethink his life. Bogdanovich originally wanted Orson Welles to direct the film after then-girlfriend, Cybill Shepherd, won the rights to the novel in a legal settlement with Playboy magazine (Playboy is listed as a production company and Hugh M. Hefner is credited as one of the executive producers). Directing the film himself, Bogdanovich (who also has a key supporting role) won back the praise of critics--if not the general public--with this finely-etched drama for grown-ups. Ben Gazzara is a marvel in the lead; subtle, introspective, congenial but direct, a straight-talker with a head for business, the actor does some of the best work of his career. The film itself is too long, with a meandering midsection, though cinematographer Robby Müller has given the Singapore streets and daytime city views a beautiful hazy look. Bogdanovich introduces us to a collection of one-of-a-kind characters, funny and offbeat creatures who come out at night, and their interplay with Flowers and each other has a nice, friendly rhythm. Ultimately, the film is a wistful portrait of friendship, loyalty and business, with people happily scraping by, day after day, with private dreams but no ambition. **1/2 from ****

"Saint Jack" is an amazing little film. Just when you figure that Peter Bogdanovich was only capable of making Hollywood efforts rather than his once indepedent film maker roots (ie; "Targets" and "Last Picture Show") he surprised his fans with this little film. Not since Cassavetes, has a director pulled such an honest and Oscar worthy performance from Ben Gazzara. For me, Ben's role as Jack Flowers is one of the most colorful of American Cinema's characters. His character is shaded with the same quirks that you would expect from such an actor as Bogart. The film begins with Jack Flowers running a prostitution racket in late 1960's Singapore, with dreams of opening the grandest of whore houses. What may seem like a typically seedy character for cinema, turns out to be one of the most sensitive portrayals that indears rather than repulses. His rather cynical, humourous, honest and lazy approach to life is at times comendable and charming. But after his dream is realized (he does get his whore house!), things start falling apart. It's at this point that his integrity is questioned with the newer business routes he ventures into. The second half of the film is slightly dispairing due to the fact that he no longer has a sense of dream, but only a sense of escape from the world he has created. You get the feeling that people of his disposition are not trully suited for the occupation of pimp. One of the highlights of the film is the friendship he builds with William Leigh (Denholm Elliott). Both are outsiders of Singapore, yet still live there, due to the fact that they're too much of an outsider in their country of origin. The friendship reminds me that of Bruno Ganz and Dennis Hopper in "The American Friend". Both are in countries not their own, but "Saint Jack" retains a friendship of innocence. One will die in both. I imagine that Peter Bogdanovich was influenced to a degree by Hugh Hefner (of Playboy fame), in which he (as well as Jack Flowers) is also in the industry of female objectification. Yet both are still looked upon as fairly descent men. It's no surprise to me that Hugh was also responsible for some of the production along with B-movie producer Roger Corman. Another character (of female objectification in cinema history) that plays a great influence in the film as well...is James Bond. The use of music, epecially the Goldfinger soundtrack (heard while two Singaporean prostitutes are gettin' busy), the theatre poster for the film resembles a James Bond like poster, and the casting of George Lazenby (ironically as a Senator with homosexual leanings) from "On Her Majesty's Secret Service" fame, lend an overwhelming thought that secretly Bogdanovich wanted to make a Bond film. But this may have also been a way of justifying Jack Flowers own arguable career choices of that of our own moral decissions in entertainment enjoyment. Also, comparing to a time (late 1960's) when we (as America) sent troops to Vietnam (another theme in the film), Jack comes off looking quiet harmless, and smelling of flowers (pun intended). But what really makes this film so charming is the warmth that Ben Gazzara radiates in this film, and how it's small scale of a budget offers such a big heart. It's heaviness in topic is always brought off with humour and sensitivity. Highly recommended on all counts! It's a pity that not more people know of this film, and that's great loss to the film watching public. Maybe Bogdanovich will make something as interesting in the future? I give it a 10!

Saint Jack is a film short on plot, but long on character study, at least for the title character Jack Flowers, patron saint of the working girl in Singapore. Ben Gazzara plays the title role and if you can imagine Humphrey Bogart at his most existential running a brothel, than you've got Gazzara's character.

And that's what Jack Flowers does, he served in Korea went to college on the GI bill and tried a hand at writing. He gave that up because he hadn't experienced enough of life in his own words, shipped out on a tramp freighter and wound up in Singapore managing a brothel. If he wanted to know about life, that's as good a place as any to get material for twenty books. And he's originally from Buffalo, New York, probably on the west side, unanglicized name Jack Fiore.

Gazzara's co-star is the city of Singapore in all its aspects, both the high and low end of it. Gazzara's got friends in high and low places, his most unusual friend is Denholm Elliott who is an accountant and sent by the front office in Hong Kong to do a yearly audit. They hit it off believe it or not, Elliott becomes kind of a role model of probity for Gazzara.

Humphrey Bogart, starting in Casablanca did a lot of his films in exotic locations. But mostly he never got there, his films mostly done on studio back lots, The African Queen a shining exception. I'm sure Bogey would have jumped at the chance to do a location film in Singapore which in his day was involved in a nasty civil war after World War II.

There's not much of a story line, in fact Gazzara's not a terribly heroic character until the end when he does have an attack of conscience. For what that is you'll have to see Saint Jack.

Opening a brothel of his own in Singapore proves challenging for an American pimp as local gangsters try to squeeze him out of the market in this Peter Bogdanovich movie. 'Saint Jack' is not often cited in discussions of Bogdanovich's best work, and the movie's near descent into obscurity nowadays is understandable if unfortunate. The film is, after all, extremely low key and very lethargically paced as the plot mostly focuses on the pimp's day-to-day activities, trying to engage American Vietnan War GIs by recounting his own experiences in Korea, watching various girls strut their stuff and escorting around a British accountant he befriends. With its strong focus on day-to-day events, the film never quite amounts to a tight narrative, however, there are sufficient highlights along the way to render the experience worthwhile. These include a fun cameo from a cigar-smoking Bogdanovich, lead actor Ben Gazarra commenting sarcastically about the accountant (BAFTA nominated Denholm Elliott) wanting to play squash when he "can't even breathe" and an absolutely unforgettable parody of 'Goldfinger' as performed by striptease artists. Bond aficionados might also take interest in an unusual brief turn by George Lazenby near the end of the movie. While not widely seen, 'Saint Jack' has a sizeable fan-base from those who have viewed it, and there is no denying how intriguing the central premise is of Gazzara as an ethical man trying to make an honest go of it in an (arguably) unethical profession where nobody is honest. One's mileage will, however, likely vary.

Difficult to follow, difficult to understand. That's what i have left about this film. The last quarter I couldn't understand anything. It didn't like at all the environment.

But something really good are the characters. Excellently personified.

an interesting story that probably worked better in print than film.I did not read the novel.Good Singapore location shots. There's probably more depth to the character Jack Flowers than most Gazzara roles as we watch him roam the underbelly of Singapore soliciting women, and in one scene,a pair of transsexuals.Technically, it's well done with slightly above average acting and direction.Good performances by some unknown actors. Still, one walks away wishing there was a little more substance to the main character and the film overall.All 'n all, it is worth seeing although it lacks in certain areas.

A poignant and evocative portrayal of the seamy side of Singapore that was banned by the island state's then Prime Minister Lee(no-chewing-gum) Kwan Yoo and which must have had him spluttering into his gin-sling. Jack Flowers (Ben Gazzara) is a pimp providing R & R for 'Nam GI's and tourists. Crossing the path of Triad gangs, who want to muscle in on his action, he refuses to be intimidated. By contrast his British ex-pat. acquaintances are post-colonial flotsam: all-day drinkers with no ambition but to live out the rest of their lives in a pastiche of Empire. The exception is William Leigh (Denholm Elliot) who gives a deftly understated and moving performance. Both BG and DE are utterly convincing in their interaction, which is the Anglo-American "special relationship" (and their countries' post-war global power shift) in microcosm. Gazzara matches arch scene-stealer Elliot belying the saying "Never act with children, animals or Denholm Elliot". With the plot covering prostitution, blackmail and protection and there is also a pervading feeling that in the 1970's there was no place on earth that was not corrupted by exploitation and misogyny. Understated and underrated, but brilliant cinema.

The criminally underrated Peter Bogdanovich casts Ben Gazzara as a man who opens a brothel in Singapore, drawing the ire of a crime syndicate. "Saint Jack", based on Paul Theroux's novel, portrays Lion City as the opposite of the immaculate place that we hear about. Not only do the streets look dirty, but the entire place comes across as a bastion of corruption.

A couple of things make "Saint Jack" a good movie. Aside from the great acting, directing and cinematography, I like movies that show us cultures that we rarely see (other examples include "The Mighty Quinn" and "Black Cat, White Cat"). Despite Singapore's economic status, it's one of the least represented of the Four Asian Tigers* in cinema. All in all, Bogdanovich (who plays a supporting role) made a good one. Also starring Denholm Elliott (Marcus Brody in the Indiana Jones movies).

*A geopolitical term used to describe Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong and South Korea, referring to their status as small countries that are economic powerhouses.

In my opinion this is the best film by Peter Bogdanovich, to this day. It packs so much witty humor, charm and deep characterizations, and yet it looks so simple, which is the essential ingredient of any great film.

Ben Gazzara mastered the roles of strayed pimps, with a heart, most notably in Cassavetes's "The killing of a Chinese bookie", and he's on his own terrain in "Saint Jack", playing the role with ease. Supporting cast helps a lot, and most of them are probably not professional actors, which gave the more credit to Bogdanovich's directing, who, by the way, plays a great role of entrepreneurial CIA operative. It's a shame that this movie is released on DVD only in Australia, but if you look hard you can track it down, and every film lover definitely should.

American hustler Jack Flowers (Ben Gazzara) is scrapping by in Singapore. He's looking to be a big time pimp, and going home in luxury. He befriends straight-laced William Leigh (Denholm Elliot). With the Vietnam war raging, he receives an offer to host American soldiers on their R&R.

Director Peter Bogdanovich had been floundering for awhile at this point in his career. This is a little bit of return to form. It's a low budget film with a character actor as the lead in an exotic location. The first half is a little slow as I wondered where the plot is going with this movie. It still rambles around. It would help to have better Asian actors. It's fun that Bogdanovich got a midget but it's tough to find any great acting outside of the two veterans. Having a bunch of nobodies does have a feel of reality but it would be nice to have real actors. More than anything, this movie has an edge which is provided by Gazzara. He infuses this movie with an underground danger. Something could happen to him at any time as he surfs the underworld.

6.8/10? This is yet another one of those criminally underrated gems. Easily within one of those top 100 films you should really see before you die, instead of all the crap. Now, this is all you need to know. But since IMDb requires at least 10 lines for comments, I will point out the more obvious. This one has a real story, real locations, superb acting, superb direction. And while Ben Gazzara is as cool as ever, the other dudes are no slouches either. They just do not make movies like these anymore. Yes, perhaps not the biggest cash cow in the box office, but when you see this you know what I mean. Probably the best thing Bogdanovich ever put together. Just see this!

This was a weird sexual type of film. Didn't really like it but based on the nudity I gave it a 7 star review

Ben Gazzara plays Jack Flowers, a savvy American hustler living in Singapore who runs a brothel. He knows everyone and seems liked by all except the local gangsters who don't like him infringing on their territory. Whilst he is a man of principle, who builds an unlikely friendship with a visiting British auditor, played by Denholm Elliott, that principle is put to the test when he is offered money that will save his business, if he takes incriminating photographs of visiting political dignitary George Lazenby.

A wonderful laid back drama featuring a stonking performance from Ben Gazzara who wanders around Singapore basically being straight to everyone and trying to run a decent brothel against all odds. At every turn he helps those around him, but sadly this just doesn't fit with the local triad ambitions. Elliott is also sublime as the sweet unwell Englishman never quite fitting in in Singapore who touchingly becomes friend with Jack and the local ex pat group of Brits lead by the great James Villiers is great fun. A real gem.

Set in the early 70's of Singapore as a pimp has his ups and downs in the sex industry. Pay close attention to the clever time frame and enjoy Ben Gazzara's wonderful performance. Bogdanovich hasn't made a decent film since this! A story nicely told.

For a Peter Bogdanovich film, I was kind of insulted he made this. As when judging his others, especially The Last Picture Show which reigns supreme. I was kind of surprised. There's nothing really special about Saint Jack, and Gazzara as a small time pimp, who reinvents himself as a major player, warring with rival syndicates, is no saint. Gazzara, who always delivers, is upstaged here, by Elliott's fine. Engaging performance, as a visiting Englishman, who becomes Gazzara's good buddy, while Bogdanovich, again, better behind the camera, plays a shady business partner. One implied oral scene, featuring George Lazenby as a perverted political figure is almost inexcusable. Given that, SJ is entertaining with a bit of cheeky erotica, T and A, but a restrained amount, which is kind of respecting from a viewers point, judging this drama. Not without interest, but this film won't blow you away, but has great Asian atmosphere however..

"Flowers" (Ben Gazzara) reckons there are easy pickings to be had setting up a brothel in Singapore and feathering his nest for a life of luxury back in the USA. Upon his arrival he alights on a collection of ex-pat Brits and befriends "William" (Denholm Elliott) - a decent man, an accountant, with little interest in the goings on in an whorehouse besides balancing the books for it's owners. Needless to say, the local Triad gang don't look too kindly on his interfering enterprise, but events in Vietnam might just provide for the most unlikely of supporters for his increasingly risky venture. Initially I thought Gazzara too lightweight to hold this together, but coupled with quite a poignant effort from Elliott and relying on a solid cast of familiar British faces, the story develops into quite an interesting observation of a man who does, indeed, have some scruples and standards of his own - even if he doesn't mind so much just quite how he makes his fortune! As events proceed, even those priorities begin to be re-thought. It's a bit of a slow starter, this, but to watch the naive cynicism of "Flowers" evolve, mature even, is worth a watch.

This movie reminds you of just how great the late 60s/early 70s was in American film and how infrequently you see a movie this rewarding nowadays. That it's now almost completely forgotten shows how little we now value strong acting in a powerful yet subtle story. Let's hope it's appearance in Amazon Prim will expand its fans. The "but almost nothing happens!" critics demonstrates how little patience film goers now have. Anecdotally, the film is also a reminder of just how much Singapore has changed in the past 50 years.

Following the hints in Karina Longworth's "Polly Platt" podcast series, I've been catching up with Bogdanovich. Having seen the The Last Picture Show a couple of weeks back, I was rather impressed by that. However, in my view, this hasn't aged nearly so well.

I'm not sure whether I was ever intended to sympathise with Gazarra's character, but he and many of his fellow-travellers seemed pretty unpleasant, and the "action" was often the same. That's not necessarily fatal, but in this case, after a while the episodic nature of the scenes made me wonder whether it was heading anywhere at all, and why I should still care.

Eventually, sure enough, after a while it just ended. I suppose that for its time it was pitched as some sort of expose of the pervasive nature of sleaze and corruption, but that's hardly news these days. It was just a bit depressing really.

(NB full marks for having Rodney Bewes on board in an unlikely role - but Denholm Elliott steals the show here.)

As I watched Peter Bogdanovich's film, Saint Jack (waiting for something to happen), three words came to mind: pretentious, tedious and dumb. Not once did I find myself caring a bit for the main character, Jack Flowers. I didn't really like him or dislike him. There was no detectable plot. The female characters were powerless cliches whose acting (?) was painful to experience. Ben Gazzara couldn't have been more impassive. I suppose that's how PB directed him to act, though. On the positive side, the shot framing and scenes of old Singapore were very good. I feel like an outlier her, after reading all the glowing reviews. I guess it's like any other work of art - you either get it or you don't. I like other auteur directors: Fellini, David Lynch. I just don't get Bogdanovich. I don't normally post reviews, but I decided that all of the positive reviews needed some balancing. I did enjoy Ben Gazzara in his Run For Your Life TV series ... even though it was a thinly-veiled rip-off of The Fugitive. But I guess if you're going to copy a show it might as well be one of the best dramas in TV history. For Peter Bogdanovich fans, TCM is about to begin a Bogdanovich podcast featuring him interviewing notable living and dead directors, as well as commentary by and interviews with Bogdanovich.