Common Sense Media Review
Classic hardboiled detective film is bleak and violent.
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Chinatown
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 17 parent reviews
Based on 20 kid reviews
Kids say this film is a captivating detective story featuring Jack Nicholson in a standout role, appealing to fans of the mystery genre. While it includes some mature themes and minor violence, most reviews suggest it's suitable for mature teens, praising the engaging plot and strong performances despite some confusion in the storyline.
- mature themes
- engaging plot
- strong performances
- detective genre
- suitable for teens
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In CHINATOWN, ex-cop Jack Gittes (Jack Nicholson) has a lucrative detective business—at least until a woman shows up seeking information about her philandering husband. In his attempt to prove the husband's affair, Jack finds himself entangled in a deadly game with the Los Angeles Police Department, the local government, and a sophisticated femme fatale (Faye Dunaway). Someone is siphoning water from the local supply, much to the dismay of the local farmers. Ultimately, Jack must uncover the trail of corruption and deceit to save his own hide (and nose).
Is It Any Good?
This film is a visually lavish trip back into the hardboiled detective genre. Chinatown's gorgeous costumes and harsh lighting help capture the seediness lurking behind legitimate society in 1930s Los Angeles. Unfortunately, director Roman Polanski's 1977 confession to child sex abuse mars its legacy, complicating the film's use of child sex abuse as a plot point. Still, the film received Oscar nominations in major performance, design, and technical categories, and Robert Towne (Shampoo, Mission: Impossible) ultimately brought home the Academy Award for his original screenplay. (The writing process had been a contentious one, as Towne had originally planned for a happy ending.) The film was intended to be the first of a trilogy about the water company, a gas company, and a freeway project, respectively. Ultimately, only one sequel (The Two Jakes) found its way into production; Nicholson would go on to direct and star in that film.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Chinatown suggests a gray area between right and wrong. Can any of the characters, from the detectives to the water department officials to the police, be clearly described as "good" or "bad"?
Why do you think the writer included the subplot about Evelyn Mulwray's abusive relationship with her father? Do you think it added to the film?
The hero, Jack, uses the derogatory slur "Chinaman." What does his use of slurs say about his character? How much do you know about the historical exclusion of Chinese people in California?
This film lends itself to discussions about cinematic style (e.g., harshly shadowed lighting) and issues of genre. How does the storytelling in this film compare to that of TV detective shows such as Law and Order and C.S.I.?
Movie Details
- In theaters : January 1, 1974
- On DVD or streaming : November 23, 1999
- Cast : Faye Dunaway , Jack Nicholson , John Huston
- Director : Roman Polanski
- Studio : Paramount Pictures
- Genre : Drama
- Run time : 131 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : adult language, brief nudity, and violence.
- Award : Golden Globe - Golden Globe Award Winner
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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