Book of Numbers (film)

Book of Numbers is a 1973 American crime comedy film directed by Raymond St. Jacques, who also stars. The film is set in 1930s Harlem and follows two African-American numbers racketeers, Dave Green (Raymond St. Jacques) and Blueboy (Philip Thomas), as they attempt to run a successful numbers game operation. The film explores themes of ambition, crime, and race relations in the Depression-era United States. Book of Numbers is notable for its predominantly black cast and its depiction of the Harlem underworld. The plot centers around their efforts to outwit the white mob and establish their own independent enterprise. While not a major box office success, the film has gained a cult following for its unique style and representation of black culture in the 1970s.