The "Jake Gittes Collection" is a captivating assemblage of cinematic gems that encapsulate the thrilling and intricate cases of the renowned private investigator, J.J. 'Jake' Gittes. Set in the city of Los Angeles during the 1930s and 1940s, these films delve into the gritty underbelly of the bustling metropolis and reveal the complexities of its inhabitants. With a blend of film noir elements and engaging narratives, this collection promises to offer viewers an immersive and exhilarating experience.
The first installment of the collection, "Chinatown," is a masterpiece that captures the essence of the era. With its labyrinthine plot, this neo-noir film noir follows Jake Gittes as he becomes entangled in a web of murder, greed, and deceit involving a powerful tycoon and the city's water supply. Roman Polanski's masterful direction and Jack Nicholson's outstanding portrayal of Jake Gittes create an unforgettable viewing experience that has earned this film its rightful place as one of the greatest films of all time.
Following in the footsteps of its critically acclaimed predecessor, "The Two Jakes" is the second film in the series. Serving as a sequel to "Chinatown," this neo-noir mystery centers around the collaboration between Jake Gittes and Jake Berman, an acquaintance who finds himself in the midst of a perplexing murder case. Nicholson not only takes on the role of Jake Gittes but also makes his directorial debut in this suspenseful and thought-provoking film. Set against the backdrop of post-war Los Angeles, "The Two Jakes" showcases the growth and evolution of Jake Gittes as a character while maintaining the noir aesthetic that has become synonymous with the series. This captivating collection is a must-watch for fans of detective tales, film noir enthusiasts, and casual viewers seeking an enthralling and unapologetically complex world of mystery and intrigue.