Private eye Jake Gittes lives off of the murky moral climate of sunbaked, pre-World War II Southern California. Hired by a beautiful socialite to investigate her husband's extra-marital affair, Gittes is swept into a maelstrom of double dealings and deadly deceits, uncovering a web of personal and political scandals that come crashing together.
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.
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.
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