Review: Chinatown
Yesterday I did a post on what films I was going to be watching over the next few days and last night I ended up watching Roman Polanski’s Chinatown. An idea me and John had was for me to review the (older) movies I watch on DVD so that’s exactly what I’ve decided to do. The reviews will be quite short for comfort reading etc. So here is my first review:
Title: Chinatown
Director: Roman Polanski
Runtime: 125 Minutes
The Good:
My first viewing of this film left me fairly underwhelmed. I think it may have been down to lack of concentration or expecting too much (probably the former). But a second, fresh minded viewing has left my opinion of this film very positive. The main thing I love about it is Jack Nicholson’s performance. There is just something about it that is so charismatic and all around watchable. I also love the noir feel it has to it and mystery that surrounds the whole thing.
The Bad:
There isn’t really that much to say on the negative side of things. To find any would be to knit picking; Around three quarters of the way through (people who have seen it should know which part I am referring to) it does drag a little bit, with a couple of unecessarily long scenes (although necessary scenes). That’s really all I can think wrong of this film and like I said it’s a really small criticism.
Verdict
Roman Polanski’s Chinatown is a true classic for all the right reasons. Twists and turns galore keep the viewer guessing but at the same time not seeming manipulative. The film is intriguing, powerful and let’s not forget extremely well made. God bless Mr Roman Polanski.
John said
November 14 2007 @ 10:42 am
Damn I forgot how sweet that poster is. As soon as I get around to building my home theatre that is one poster that will be on the wall for sure.
Andrew James said
November 14 2007 @ 12:27 pm
yeah, it’s an awesome poster. I think the sp. ed. of Chinatown was just released yesterday on DVD. i might have to pick that one up. I believe there is one that is packaged with the sequel, “The Two Jakes” which I have not seen yet. Perfect opportunity.
Ithink Ross is right, for today’s generation, Chinatown is a film that grows on you the more you watch it. maybe a bit underwhelming, as he said, at first. But upon further viewings you’ll realize it is completely ass kicking.
Dave Becker said
November 14 2007 @ 9:11 pm
Well said, Ross. Chinatown is a classic, but my reaction was the same as yours the first time I saw it. It takes a few viewings to truly appreciate how great a film it is.