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Chinatown 1974

“You get tough. You get tender. You get close to each other. Maybe you even get close to the truth.”

★ 7.9/10 · 4,311 votes R CrimeMysteryThriller Released
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Quick answer

What is Chinatown?

Chinatown is a 1974 film centered on the experiences of private investigator Jake Gittes in pre-World War II Southern California. The narrative follows Gittes as he navigates the murky moral climate of the region while working as a private eye.

Type
Film
Year
1974
Status
Released
Runtime
130 minutes
Release date
Jun 20, 1974
Original language
EN
Origin
United States of America
Studios
Paramount Pictures, Long Road Productions, Robert Evans Productions
Budget
$6,000,000
Revenue
$30,000,000
Genres
Crime, Mystery, Thriller
Updated
Availability by region

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Overview

Chinatown is a 1974 film centered on the experiences of private investigator Jake Gittes in pre-World War II Southern California. The narrative follows Gittes as he navigates the murky moral climate of the region while working as a private eye. The plot begins when a socialite hires Gittes to investigate her husband for an extra-marital affair. This routine assignment quickly escalates, drawing the protagonist into a complex series of double dealings and deadly deceits. As the investigation progresses, Gittes uncovers a vast web of interconnected personal and political scandals. These revelations eventually collide, forcing the investigator to confront the consequences of the secrets he has unearthed. The film explores the dark undercurrents of the era, depicting a landscape defined by corruption and hidden agendas. By focusing on the professional life of Gittes, the story examines how a seemingly simple case can spiral into a dangerous situation, ultimately revealing the deeper systemic issues embedded within the society of the time.

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Should you watch it?

“A private eye uncovers tangled personal and political scandals in sun‑baked 1930s California.”

Reasons to watch
  • Rich period setting
  • Complex mystery
  • Compelling noir atmosphere
Keep in mind
  • Lengthy runtime may feel slow for some viewers
  • Dark themes and mature content

Watch it if you enjoy intricate mysteries set against a moody, historical backdrop.

The film features mature themes, violence, and a bleak tone, making it suited for adult audiences.

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Frequently asked questions

What genre is Chinatown?

It is classified as a crime, mystery, and thriller film.

When was Chinatown released?

It premiered in the United States on June 20, 1974.

How long is the movie?

The runtime is approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes.

What is the setting of the story?

The story takes place in Southern California before World War II.

Who is the main character?

The protagonist is private investigator Jake Gittes.