This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 170! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.
Hey everyone!
Ever feel like curling up on the couch with a good ol’ detective movie? Yeah, me too. But this time, ditch the popcorn because we’re diving into something a little darker, a whole lot more messed up: Roman Polanski’s 1974 neo-noir masterpiece, Chinatown.
This flick isn’t your typical whodunit. Sure, there’s a mystery – a whole lotta murky mystery involving a cheating husband, a suspicious wife, and a drought-stricken California. But as private dick J.J. Gittes, played by the ever-so-charming Jack Nicholson, unravels the truth, we tumble down a rabbit hole of corruption, betrayal, and…..shall we say, much darker appetites.
Nicholson is on fire in this movie. His portrayal of Gittes is equal parts cynical and oddly endearing. The man brings Jake Gittes to life with such a slick, effortless cool that you can’t help but root for him, even when he’s making some pretty questionable choices. He’s a man who’s seen it all, and let’s be honest, probably wants a stiff drink after every encounter. But there’s a flicker of decency beneath that gruff exterior, and that’s what makes him such a compelling character.
Then there’s Evelyn Mulwray, played by the stunning Faye Dunaway. She’s the picture of Hollywood glam, but there’s a haunted quality in her eyes that makes you wonder what demons she’s battling. As Gittes gets deeper into the case, the lines between client and suspect start to blur, and let me tell you, the chemistry between Nicholson and Dunaway is .
Now, I wouldn’t dream of spoiling the entire plot for you (I mean, who does that?), but let’s just say things get messy – like, seriously messy. The deeper Gittes digs, the more the truth stinks, and it’s not just a dead fish kind of stink, it’s a full-on rotting garbage fire kind of stink. Betrayals come from all sides, and by the end, you’ll be left wondering who you can even trust (spoiler alert: probably no one ).
But Chinatown is more than just a detective story. It’s a scathing commentary on the corruption that can fester beneath the surface of a seemingly idyllic place. Los Angeles in the 1930s is portrayed as a city built on lies and manipulation, where water is as scarce as morality.
What makes “Chinatown” stick with you isn’t just the story (though it by itself, is super intense) —it’s how it’s told. Polanski nails the essence of film noir, complete with shadowy alleys, a haunting score by Jerry Goldsmith, and dialogues that feel like they’ve been dipped in a vat of intrigue. And those close-ups on Nicholson’s face? They practically let you read his mind as the twists pile up.
Now be warned — this movie is not for the faint of heart. It’s dark, it’s disturbing, and the ending will leave you feeling like you need a long hot shower. But if you’re looking for a neo-noir masterpiece that will stay with you long after the credits roll, then Chinatown is a must-watch. Just don’t say I didn’t warn you – this one will stay with you for a while.
Alright folks, gotta jet. Until next time, stay safe out there, and remember, the truth is rarely what it seems.
Catch you tomorrow!
Roger