Chinatown is a 1974 movie directed by Roman Polanski.
WHAT HAPPENS?
A private detective is hired to investigate a case of adultery, but finds himself at the center of a corrupt, murderous scheme.
ONE LINE REVIEW
Chinatown is an inventive take on classic film noir.
THE ACTORS
Jack Nicholson plays detective J.J. Gittes with a measured degree of the dynamic qualities that made him a 1970’s icon. His Gittes is a confident, cynical character hardened by his experience. Yet as the movie progresses, there is a vulnerability and fear that emerges. The final scene of the movie is revealing as Nicholson’s detective is stunned by the bizarre events that have unfolded.
Faye Dunaway is extraordinary as Evelyn Mulwray, the widow of a murdered water department director and daughter of land baron Noah Cross. She plays her character with a cryptic sense of mystery and sadness – she’s both elusive and vulnerable. She’s clearly manipulating J.J. but also taking comfort in his presence. The most revealing scene sees Mulwray and Gittes sleep together – when she realizes J.J. is one step ahead of her, she attempts to cover her body up. It’s a subtle but tremendous realization about her character.
The rest of the supporting cast is terrific, including a turn by veteran director John Huston as Noah Cross, who harbors some terrifying secrets. Huston plays Cross with the cavalier sensibility of a powerful man uninhibited by those around him. A scene stealer is Polanski himself, who plays a thug that maims Nicholson’s Gittes in a classic scene.
THE DIRECTOR
Roman Polanski crafts another intricate, patient narrative that allows his actors to carefully explore their roles. The cinematography and settings reveal the vast nature of the landscape that is being exploited. The scenes that involve the ferocity of water are easily symbolic, while the nighttime settings and use of shadows represent the noir ethos Polanski is trying to honor.
THE BEST – Salt Water Very Bad for Grass
The vast landscape of water compared to a small pond is a fitting image. Nicholson’s Gittes makes a revelation about his case after Polanski carefully repeats what originally seemed like a throwaway line.
THE BEST Part 2 – Burt Young
It’s always to great to see the king of 70’s character actors pop up. His Curly is a sad sack, slob character who is inherently unlikable – but still, it’s Burt Young.
THE BEST Part 3 – The Ticking Clock
One of Polanski’s favorite motifs is featured in several key scenes.
THE BEST Part 4 – Evelyn’s Revelation
Dunaway’s most memorable lines come as the case takes a bizarre twist. It’s another highlight of a tremendous performance.
THE WORST – Blame It On the Chinese
The movie’s finale occurs in the place where Gittes became a hardened detective – and of course, features the classic line that frames the story. However, it’s a bit ironic to shift responsibility for the actions of the excessively rich to those who are continually exploited.
FOX FORCE FIVE RATING – 4.25/5
Polanski’s movies reward the audience for their patience. Chinatown is no exception. The acting is tremendous – highlighted by Dunaway’s amazing performance. A must watch.
