Chinatown (1974)

 The best deal for the classic coloured film noir
The film is a classic. Everyone knows Chinatown. Who still doubt it? Forget it, Jake. Chinatown is one of the best film i've ever seen. A coloured film noir. And the dvd is cheap. For an not-really-modern film like Chinatown, the picture and sound is at their best-if you dont wanna say it perfect. We're talking about this product (a DVD,not a BD). It has just a few extra. I found a lot of fun on them. I dont know whether the studio still keep some footage for the BD release or not. For now, it's at its best deal. May 6, 2008

 More than just a great detective film
Private detective Jake Gittes (Jack Nicholson) becomes embroiled in L.A. water politics and falls for the daughter (Faye Dunaway) of a powerful but evil (you have no idea how evil unless you've seen the movie) developer (John Huston). This is 70s nihilism at its best. Roman Polanski shows us why he's worthy of being regarded as a great director no matter how much sub-standard product he turns out, and Nicholson shines in his physical prime. Robert Townes demonstrates why he is regarded as a superlative screenwriter, although it is important to note that Polanski is responsible for the film's devastating conclusion.

Gittes operates in a world where it is essentially impossible to do good. No matter how much he seems to be in command of a situation, there are always factors beyond his understanding and control that fundamentally alter the intended outcome of all his efforts. Knowing this, is he a fool or a hero for acting as he does? Or perhaps he is just a decent human being who tries to help when he can, trusting to the Fates that he will not cause too much harm. For much of this film, you may wonder why it is called "Chinatown," but when the final scene reveals the suitability of the title, it is a disturbing comment on the human condition.
March 29, 2008

 movies
its a timeless classic and must for movie buffs! it also arrived in great condition and a very timely manner. March 27, 2008

 Still amazing after all these years
I saw Chinatown when it first came out in theaters and liked it a lot. But I have to say that I enjoyed it even more now. There is so much to see and appreciate. First of all, the script is amazing--so much better than the usual gumshoe flicks. Then there is the perfect cast: Nicholson is at the top of his game as the crass but great hearted P.I. Dunaway is beautiful and appropriately mysterious, strange, and vulnerable, John Houston will give you the heebie geebies for a week with his charming presence that hides dreadful secrets. The direction is masterful. LA looks beautiful in the sun drenched light.

So many films that were lauded at the time don't hold up over the years, but this one really does. I highly recommend it.

March 4, 2008

 Excellent movie
This was a very well done movie with an engaging plot, that despite its length never seemed to drag on. I'd certainly recommend it. February 8, 2008

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