IMDb8.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes98%
Metacritic92
Google Users95%
Director: Roman Polanski•Genres: Neo-noir, Mystery, Thriller
In 1937 Los Angeles, private investigator Jake Gittes is hired by Evelyn Mulwray to investigate her husband's suspected affair. The case quickly spirals into a complex web of conspiracy involving murder, incest, and corruption within the city's water supply. Gittes finds himself entangled in a dangerous game where the lines between good and evil are blurred, and the past casts a long, dark shadow over the present.
Chinatown is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made, earning universal acclaim from critics for its masterful direction, complex screenplay, and outstanding performances. It is celebrated for its intricate plot, dark atmosphere, and cynical portrayal of power and corruption, leaving a lasting impact on the neo-noir genre.
A haunting and brilliant neo-noir masterpiece with a compelling, labyrinthine plot.
Jack Nicholson delivers a career-defining performance as the jaded detective.
Roman Polanski's assured direction creates an atmosphere of pervasive dread and moral ambiguity.
Google audience: Audiences praise Chinatown for its intelligent and intricate storyline, the stellar performances of its cast, and its unforgettable, bleak ending. Many highlight the film's atmospheric tension and its exploration of deep-seated corruption as key strengths.
Won 1 Academy Award (Best Original Screenplay) and was nominated for 5 others, including Best Picture and Best Actor. Received numerous other accolades, including Golden Globe Awards and BAFTA Awards.
The iconic and devastating final line, 'Forget it, Jake. It's Chinatown,' was improvised by actor Robert Towne, who also wrote the screenplay.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources