A classic mystery of murder, politics, and love

Rating: 10/10 (27 April 1999)

Chinatown is a classic mystery full of twists and turns. Jack Nicholson is a private investegator who becomes part of an elaborate plot to kill the head of the Los Angeles water department. From the start Nicholson knows something is up, and begins to discover a huge scandal.
This movie often receives unfavorable comments because the plot can be difficult to follow. The first time I saw the movie, I was very confused. However, after watching it again the movie made more sense. The script is so well written, if you miss one little part of the dialogue you could be lost for the rest of the movie.
The movie marks a highlight for Roman Polanski (this is my favorite movie by Polanski), and Jerry Goldsmith (this is my favorite musical score by Goldsmith). If it had not been for The Godfather II coming out the same year, Chinatown may have run off with an incredible number of Oscars.
The best part of the movie is how well the movie flows into the final scene. After watching the movie several times, I continually pick out more and more of the symbolism and foreshadowing throughout the storyline.
This movie is incredible. Great acting from Jack Nicholson, John Huston, and Faye Dunaway. Great directing from Roman Polanski. Great screenwriting by Robert Towne, and great music provided by Jerry Goldsmith. If you have not seen this movie, put it high on your must see list. If you have seen the movie, I urge you to watch it more than once.