Timeless Classics: Chinatown

Most cinephiles are always looking for the next big blockbuster bombshell, the new Oscar gold standard, or a fresh diamond indie darling, but sometimes all anyone really needs is a two hour sit-down with a timeless classic of a bygone era, like Roman Polanski’s Chinatown. With the overwhelming wave of theme-park-IP-flick madness running rampant through theatres across the country, this gripping mystery/thriller is an immense breath of fresh air.

Set to the backdrop of the 1920’s LA Water Wars, jaded Private Investigator Jake Gittes, played by prime Jack Nicholson, is approached with the usual case of suspected infidelity and sure enough, it all starts out as nothing more than that. However, in time, he soon finds himself in for more than he bargained for, as his investigation leads him down a rabbit hole of murder, government corruption, and a twisting tale of lies, regret, tragedy, and love that will have you hanging on every word and movement of anyone that looks even the slightest bit suspicious.

Now be advised, this film lies far and away from any sort of modern expectation. If you’re looking for bloody shootouts, insane set pieces, or edgy, intricate fisticuffs, this ain’t that. HOWEVER, ... what you do get are stellar performances, chilling scores, masterful cinematography, and an enthralling dialogue driven, slow burn of a story that I guarantee will have you saying, “Damn. They just don’t make them like this anymore.”

It is with my highest recommendation that anyone give this one a try. It’s a juicy piece of film history that still holds it’s succulent flavor, even after 37 years. And with it currently streaming on Netflix, what better time to give it whirl, than now?

Levi Mock (July 2021)

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