Polanski's masterpiece of film noir

Rating: 10/10 (8 July 2011)

Chinatown is one of the most excellent films to come from Roman Polanski. The screenplay builds a fine sense of unease and tension, keeping you thinking from start to finish. The characters are well-developed and especially well-acted. The storytelling is flawless, a perfect balance of mystery and romance. Filmed in Technicolor and with welcome appearances from John Huston and director Roman Polanski, it remains on the same level of Hollywood filmmaking as Casablanca and The Godfather. Jack Nicholson and Faye Dunaway are excellent in Oscar-nominated performances, but it is Robert Towne's screenplay that really makes strides.