First Take: Chinatown- going back in time around 40 years

SYPNOSIS:

A private detective hired to expose an adulterer finds himself caught up in a web of deceit, corruption and murder.

Ah, Roman Polanski’s 1974 classic is the film that opens this year’s ‘12 Days of Smit-mas’. I seen this without any knowledge on a random Tuesday in October, and as a modern day viewer, I enjoyed most of the film, but not all of it.

Polanski’s direction is a very slow burning style that I didn’t really enjoy, however, he does manage to pace the film very well in a classic Hollywood ‘golden era’ style. It is written well by Robert Towne, and delivers a very complex and compelling narrative that really keeps the typical viewer engaged.

The performances are brilliant, with Jack Nicholson putting in some incredible work as ever- and with a great supporting cast including Faye Dunaway and John Huston, there isn’t much I can fault in that regard. Jerry Goldsmith’s score is incredible, and it has really stood the test of time- I hear the main theme from this film on a regular basis at the cinema where I review new releases, and with some fine cinematography from John Alonzo, it is one of those rare films that still looks good when it is projected well on the big screen.

THE VERDICT

With great cinematography, some very fine performances and direction alongside that iconic score, Chinatown has really stood the test of time. However, it’s a film that a more modern and mainstream audience member wouldn’t engage with.

RATING: 4/5