10 Films That Brilliantly Nailed Topical Issues
3. Chinatown
This searing neo-noir classic dealing with Jack Nicholson's Jake Gittes' investigations of the seedy underbelly of 1930's Los Angeles, is rightfully revered. While the outstanding direction of Roman Polanski and withering performances from Nicholson and Faye Dunaway were instrumental in the film's success, it was that stunning twist that really made it a classic.
The film's brooding atmosphere is almost unbearable at times, and as the mystery elements are pulled together we are left with that sinking feeling that some truly awful secret is lurking. The revelation (massive spoiler alert in case you didn't know) is that Faye Dunaway's Evelyn Mulwray is revealed to be both the sister and mother of the character Kathryn.
The revelation that Evelyn was raped by her father when she was a teen is heartbreaking, while also giving us a much clearer understanding of her erratic behaviour. We also see the true horrors of her father's character, his devious plans for Los Angeles nothing compared to the true villainy of his previous acts.
The choice to reveal this shocking moment so late in the piece allows the audience a greater understanding of each character without seeing them as just a victim and perpetrator. It's a great decision from Polanski, and actually allows us a greater insight into the horrific impact that the incest has truly had on poor Evelyn.