It has been over two years since I recommended Chinatown (1974), and I think it is appropriate to re-recommend it tonight given my view it is easily one of the top five films ever made.
Here is what I said back in March 2012:
They don’t come much better than Chinatown (1974). Regardless of Director Roman Polanski’s personal crimes, there can be no denying his talent as displayed in this bonafide masterpiece, starring a young Jack Nicholson and a cagey, older John Huston. Faye Dunaway as a knockout doesn’t hurt either, in this period piece set in 1930′s Los Angeles. Nicholson plays the memorable “J.J. Gittes,” a feisty, independent-minded private eye who is hell-bent on getting to the bottom of a massive scheme of corruption that goes right to heart of modern society–Stealing a city’s water supply.
I believe Chinatown is one of the top five films ever released, fusing a well-developed plot with excellent acting, directing, and cinematography. Check it out.
A true classic. The market is ‘Chinatown’. The world has had few bulls like the build out of Southern California. Epic movie.
Curious. What are the other four in the top five?
Never saw this one for whatever reason. Might have to check it out tonight if I have enough time!