Even better on subsequent viewings

Rating: 9/10 (9 September 2003)

This film starts out slowly and methodically and gradually builds to one of the most shattering climaxes in film history. I don't usually gush about films but in this case I think extravagant praise is justified. Master screenwriter Robert Towne's script gives the actors some of the best material any screen performer has ever had. What else can be said about Jack Nicholson's, Faye Dunaway's, and John Ford's performances that hasn't already been said. They are simply perfect. It was interesting to read in Dunaway's biography, My Life Looking for Gatsby, how unpleasant and even abusive director Polanski was toward the cast, particularly towards, her but even to Nicholson. Yet the final result of their collaboration is a film that is exemplary in every facet, 10/10.