Chinatown Blu-ray Review

Paramount’s 1080p Blu-ray transfer for "Chinatown" presents the film in its original 2.35:1 widescreen aspect ratio, significantly upgrading previous SD-DVD releases. While the video is sourced from the 2006 master used for the 2007 DVD Special Edition and does not meet the quality of the latest 4K prints, it still delivers a solid high definition experience notable for its attention to detail. The image generally maintains a sharp and clear look without excessive digital noise reduction (DNR), preserving fine details and natural textures. Panoramic shots showcasing late 1930s Los Angeles are particularly compelling, though some instances of banding, minor print damage, and edge softness are present.

The color scheme is one of the Blu-ray’s strengths, rendering accurate and vibrant tones that beautifully capture the period setting. Facial tones are generally stable with only minor inconsistencies, and rich colors such as lush greens, beautiful blue skies, and deep blacks contribute to the overall visual appeal. The Blu-ray effectively maintains a film-like quality with a light layer of grain that adds texture without being obtrusive.

While some minor flaws exist—such as occasional softness around edges and some pasty facial moments—the overall video presentation is commendable. Scenes exhibit consistent color balance, excellent contrast, and satisfactory shadow details even in darker sequences. Despite these visual strengths, fans may feel the absence of a new 4K transfer for this classic film, which would have anticipated higher standards in line with its iconic status. Nonetheless, Paramount’s Blu-ray is a commendable effort that effectively revitalizes "Chinatown," making it an appealing option for those upgrading from earlier DVD releases.

The Blu-ray presentation of "Chinatown" audio features a Dolby TrueHD 5.1 remix and an optional lossless Dolby TrueHD Mono track. While purists might prefer the original mono for its authenticity, the 5.1 remix provides a subtle, yet atmospheric enhancement that stays true to the film’s original aural intent. Dialogue remains clear and well-prioritized, primarily occupying the frontal array, which enhances Jerry Goldsmith’s iconic score by offering it a richer soundscape. The remix does not bring a significantly different auditory experience compared to the mono version; however, it does afford listeners a slightly more immersive experience with minimal ambient effects, ensuring it complements the film's narrative without overwhelming it.

The 5.1 audio treatment excels in maintaining the neo-noir thriller's primary focus on dialogue. Surround activity is mostly limited to environmental sounds like city din, peeping crickets, seagulls, and running water, all of which situate within the front channels, ensuring the soundstage remains spacious but subtle and authentic. Gunshots and other explosive moments are delivered with adequate authority, albeit not extending much past the frontal soundscape. Bass elements seep through during pivotal scenes, adding a necessary depth and weight to the overall sound mix, while high-fidelity reproduction ensures that Jerry Goldsmith’s soaring score remains dynamically robust and free from distortion or surface noise.

Overall, while the Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track doesn’t transform "Chinatown" into an overwhelming surround-sound experience, it successfully preserves the film’s period atmosphere and enhances its auditory characteristics. This refined mix aligns with the film's age and thematic content, producing a sound environment that is both clean and engaging, making it an excellent choice for cinephiles who appreciate nuanced audio fidelity.

The Blu-ray edition of "Chinatown" delivers an exhaustive suite of extras that greatly enhances the viewing experience. The highlight is an audio commentary featuring Screenwriter Robert Towne and Filmmaker David Fincher, providing in-depth discussions on numerous facets including Polanski's direction, the film's music, and the contributions of the stellar cast. The disc also includes extensive featurettes detailing both the historical context of the Los Angeles aqueduct project and the meticulous filmmaking process that underpin the movie’s narrative. Whether you're a cinephile or a casual viewer, these extras offer valuable insights into one of cinema's most lauded masterpieces.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Screenwriter Robert Towne and Filmmaker David Fincher
• Water & Power: A three-part feature focusing on the L.A. aqueduct.
• Chinatown: An Appreciation: Industry professionals discuss the film’s layers and impact.
• Chinatown: The Beginning & the End: Insight into the origins and conclusion of the story.
• Chinatown: Filming: Behind-the-scenes filming details.
• Chinatown: The Legacy: Reflecting on the film's success and lasting influence.
• Theatrical Trailer

Roman Polanski’s Chinatown isn’t just a movie – it's an intricate exploration of corruption, deceit, and the power struggle embedded in 1930s Los Angeles. Jack Nicholson delivers a career-defining performance as private investigator Jake Gittes, who is thrown into a web of lies and murder when he’s hired by a woman, ostensibly to investigate an infidelity case. Co-starring Faye Dunaway as the enigmatic Evelyn Mulwray, the film deftly transforms from a routine private-eye tale into a dark, brooding epic that comments on larger societal issues related to water control and political machinations.

What separates Chinatown from other neo-noirs is its perfect synthesis of style and substance. Roman Polanski manages to imbue the film with an authentic 1930s energy while utilizing color cinematography to deepen the narrative's impact. The story’s authenticity and depth stem from Robert Towne’s masterful script, which interweaves personal drama with historical and socio-political commentary. Towne's screenplay deservedly won an Oscar, praised for its complex layering and hard-boiled dialogue that propels the plot into morally ambiguous territories.

The supporting elements further elevate this film into the highest echelons of cinematic brilliance. John A. Alonzo’s steady cinematography and Jerry Goldsmith’s haunting score perfectly complement Polanski’s restrained direction, bringing to life Los Angeles as a character in itself. The performances are evenly matched with Jack Nicholson’s Gittes capturing the audience’s attention with his morally conflicted persona while Faye Dunaway’s Evelyn oscillates between vulnerability and strength. John Huston’s turn as the menacing magnate Noah Cross adds a layer of sinister gravitas to the narrative. Ultimately, Chinatown accomplishes what few films can: it completely immerses its viewers into its meticulously crafted world, making them forget they are watching a movie and not experiencing it firsthand.

Roman Polanski's "Chinatown" is an undeniable cinematic masterpiece that continues to define an era and a genre. Set against the meticulously recreated backdrop of 1930s Los Angeles, the film stands as a timeless testament to the power of cinema as both an art form and a means of escapism. Jack Nicholson and Faye Dunaway deliver iconic performances that are both nuanced and affecting, bolstered by Robert Towne's flawless screenplay. The film’s deliberate pacing and authentic atmosphere are gripping, ensuring that "Chinatown" remains compelling nearly four decades after its initial release.

Paramount's Blu-ray release does justice to this classic film, delivering pristine video and superb audio quality that revitalizes the movie for contemporary audiences. The video transfer retains the lush cinematography that the film is known for, making it visually arresting and evocative. The audio presentation ensures that the subtleties of the film's soundscape are preserved, adding depth to the viewing experience. Additionally, the Blu-ray is complemented by an impressive array of supplements that provide invaluable historical and analytical context, further enriching the viewer's appreciation of the movie.

In conclusion, "Chinatown" on Blu-ray is a must-own for any serious collector and enthusiast of classic cinema. The release serves both newcomers and long-time fans, allowing them to fully appreciate the intricate direction, excellent writing, and powerful performances. While a future restoration by Paramount might enhance the experience even further, this Blu-ray edition stands as an exemplary placeholder, capturing the essence of a film that continues to be highly regarded in film schools and among critics worldwide.