multi-layered complexity - eternal appeal

Rating: 10/10 (7 October 1999)

There is always more to "Chinatown" than meets the eye on the first viewing. Like the proverbial onion, one discovers more and more as one peels the outer layers.
Jack Nicholson was first-rate as a private eye, and Dunaway provided sufficient support for the acting to be termed "memorable". That is till you consider John Huston. He was absolutely magnificent in his portrayal of a crooked father. And with Polanski directing the film with his usual aplomb, it comes up real trumps.
The story is quite complex, but you never get the feeling that someone has gone over the board, as you often do with some of the other films of its genre. The tragic ending is chilling, and leaves you feeling vaguely bitter about our world. Nicholson's character makes you feel sad, but you never pity him. You might dislike Evelyn, but will never despise her.
Overall great cinema - timeless in its appeal (even if you miss the director's brief appearance as a toughie in a superbly shot scene). 9/10.