Tag: roman polanski

Chinatown

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.

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Rosemary’s Baby

Rosemary’s Baby is a 1968 movie directed by Roman Polanski.

WHAT HAPPENS?

A young couple move into a new apartment and befriend their older neighbors, the Castevet’s. Rosemary becomes pregnant and grows suspicious of those around her – eventually realizing she and her unborn baby are the targets of an occult group.

ONE LINE REVIEW

Rosemary’s Baby is a well-crafted, exceptional piece of horror.

THE ACTORS

Mia Farrow plays the demure title character and gives the movie its moral core. Her most memorable moments come as she physically and emotionally loses touch with her body. It’s a delicate, but profound performance – highlighted by the ritual dream sequences in which she becomes an unwitting participant in the Castevet’s occult practices. Farrow immerses herself in the physical traits of the role – her vibrant Rosemary grows ashen and sickly as the movie progresses towards its shocking end.

Ruth Gordon and Sidney Blackmer are phenomenal as Minnie and Roman Castevet. Gordon is a scene stealer as the whirlwind, aloof Minnie. Her character dominates the screen – fluidly manipulating Rosemary throughout her pregnancy. Blackmer plays Roman with a genteel varnish and feigned confusion. It’s a unique performance that presents his character as both mysterious and innocuous.

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