Chinatown [Blu-ray] [1974]

I love how the actor performs their roles well as great story.

This Detective/Mystery with a murder or two is typical of the genre of the 1960’s and 1970’s period. The principal acting staff were both experienced and talented, and this moving-picture is blessed with the extraordinary performances of both Jack Nicholson and Faye Dunaway. The films story-line starts out very slowly building a base for what is to come which is both captivating and interesting with several surprises along the way. This movie presents a very good “cat and mouse game” and its’ ending is not what you suspect. Additionally, this classic Detective/Mystery is both intelligent as-well-as entertaining, and I am sure you will agree that Chinatown will be entertaining audiences for years to come

The "Film Noir" genre of mystery and crime dramas was a staple of American and European cinema of the 1930s to 1950, but would keep coming back every several years with a bang (pun intended)! In 1974, screenwriter Robert Towne and director Roman Polanski reintroduced "Film Noir" to a new generation of audiences with their classic box office smash "Chinatown." Today, over 40 years later, "Chinatown" (which is set in 1937) continues to be a relevant and enjoyable film with a great story, vivid cinematography and other high production values. It's greatest strength is still in the electrifying performances of its main and supporting cast, led by powerhouse performers Jack Nicholson (in fine form at his prime) as complicated Private Eye Jake "J.J." Gittes, the ever-alluring Faye Dunaway as both a "femme fatale" and a "damsel-in-distress" and the legendary actor-director John Huston in one of his best roles as a disturbingly menacing and powerful villain. While the movie won only one Academy Award (for Best Screenplay by Towne) our of eleven nominations, many film buffs would still "Chinatown" a runaway winner in most categories.

This movie firmly established Jack Nicholson as a top actor, supported by a young and beautiful Faye Dunaway and stunning John Houston performance. The year is 1937, Los Angeles private investigator Jake Geddes must solve the mysterious murder of Dunaway's husband while falling hard for her. Sensuous music score, stunning photography and exceptional direction by Roman Pollansky at his best make this a standout modern day firm noir equal to the best of all time. Nicholson was at his prime and willing to take Brando-like acting risks. Half way into the movie, a thug sliced his nose nearly off and he courageously wears that wound for the rest of the film. It has a spectacular surprise ending that will have you endlessly talking about the film and wanting to watch it over and over. This is definitely a "top ten," bucket list masterpiece.

This version of Chinatown is an absolute must own on blu-ray. One of the finest films of the decade looks as great as it possibly can without a 4k master. Jack Nicholson is fantastic in this film and shows why he became one of the hottest stars in Hollywood shortly thereafter. Don't want to give too much away as far as the plot goes, suffice to say this film is iconic in the film noir genre. The soundtrack in 5.1 HD sounds great, the extras, the complete package, plus the steelbook treatment and a good price makes this a no-brainer to add to your collection.

A landmark movie in the Film Noir tradition, Roman Polanski's "Chinatown" upholds every aspect of a true Film Noir style classic. Jack Nickolson and Faye Dunaway experience the murky, dark, muddled side of Pre War Southern California. Nicholson plays private eye Jake Gittes hired by a sensual socialite played by Faye Dunaway to investigate the murder of her husband. Gittes soon finds himself entrenched in double- dealings. Also starring film legend John Huston. A highly recommended film done in a timeless format.

Hands down the best Private Investigator movie Hollywood has have produced. Jack Nicholson is well, Jack Nicholson of course. The story line is awesome and stays true to actual P.I. work. Not too glorified or exagerated. Good stuff

Regardless of what you may have to say about the man himself, Polanski displays many of the great qualities one looks for in a director and his work, especially this piece, is evidence of that. The higher resolution quality provided via blu ray combined with classy new packaging and you’ve got yourself a winner. Excellent work.