Rating of
3.5/4
"Chinatown" by Yojimbo
Yojimbo - wrote on 03/31/12
Jack Nicholson stars as J.J. Gittes, a private detective hired to investigate an alleged marital indiscretion but uncovers more than he bargained for including deceit, corruption and murder. Right from the self consciously retro titles, Polanski sets out his stall; to recreate the classic noirs of the 40s and 50s, and a damn fine job he does too. Even to the point of casting legendary director John "The Maltese Falcon" Huston. Nicholson is at the height of his powers as the world weary ex detective and is complimented perfectly by Faye Dunaway with a possibly career best performance as the glamorous yet vulnerable femme fatale. The intelligent script constantly wrong foots you, playing with your assumptions and Polanski's direction is suitably hard boiled, shadowing Gittes as he uncovers the grim truth behind these unsavoury events. A fine homage and addition to one of my favourite genres and essential viewing for fans of crime drama.
