Jack Nicholson

This is a complex and moving film and show's Jack Nicolson at his finest. Nicholson plays Robert Dupea who on the surface seems like any other failure -working on an oil platform in the desert, drinking his life away whilst involved in a totally unfulfilling relationship with his girlfriend. As the film develops though we realise that Dupea is not only an accomplished pianist but comes from an upper-class family of musicians. It also becomes apparent that Dupea is on the run -not only from his past, but also himself.

When he learns that his father is dying he realises that he has no choice but to confront that past before it's too late. The film then becomes a kind of existential, but quirky road movie.

I really enjoyed this film - it was completely different to what I originally expected it to be when I first saw it years ago. I'd only known Nicholson through Batman (yes, I know... I can hardly look myself in the eye!!); The Shining and A Few Good Men. All his roles had been over-the-top and it surprised me that he could play such a complex and subtle character. Of course, I then realised that he'd starred in Chinatown and One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest!

This is a film that has been criminally passed by both Chinatown & Cuckoo and really deserves more recognition. To me it has a more resonant story as I can really relate to Nicholson's character. Spread the word and find out for yourself - you won't be disappointed!

Oh -and look out for a hilarious scene in the diner, about half way through!!

This is the benchmark for all detective thrillers should be based against. Razor sharp script & plot; honed and polished acting with exemplary performances by Jack Nicholson; Faye Dunaway and John Huston. This film keeps you guessing with its many winding turns - the final twist of the knife is devastating and the last line of dialog just hangs in the air: "Forget it, Jake - it's Chinatown." This film was made during the Sharon Tate / Charles Manson massacre and there is a feeling of creeping darkness and despair perpetuating the narrative. It's about the corruption of innocence where the truth is just another murky grey area and the final truth is often too much to bare.

There is a feeling of detachment as well, as if the audience are just observers in the drama, just like the private eye Jake Gittes so we are actually implicated in the murder and intrigue and, at the end, are just as helpless to make things right as Gittes.

This is a fascinating film, one of the few thrillers that can be called brilliant and is certainly one of the films you need to see before you die!