Gene Anderson made his mark in the world of cult cinema with his role in The Shakedown (1960). Set against the backdrop of gritty urban life, Anderson's performance captures the essence of the era's exploitation films. His work contributes to the film's exploration of crime and morality, making it a notable entry in the genre. Although his filmography is limited, his appearance in The Shakedown remains a point of interest for fans of grindhouse cinema.
The Shakedown
Augie Cortona, a recently released convict, opens up a photographic studio and modelling school that serves as a front for a service enabling amateurs to take erotic photographs while blackmailing some of the participants. Meanwhile, a longstanding feud with a rival gangster who took over his operation while he was imprisoned continues. Scotland Yard decide to investigate Cortona by sending an officer, Mildred Eyde, to operate undercover by enrolling as a student model. Cortona is smitten by Eyde and begins to woo her. Eyde's cover is blown when another criminal recognizes her. As Cortona decides what to do with her, police raid the studio in order to rescue her. Cortona tries to flee but is shot by a waiting blackmail victim who has been pushed too far by repeated threats of exposure and demands for ever more money. As Cortona is dying, Mildred kneels down to comfort him. With his last breath, Cortona says "Bitch". Mildred is led away, upset.
