Cast and Crew of Chinatown

Cast of
Chinatown

About Chinatown

In the captivating neo-noir film "Chinatown," the character of J.J. 'Jake' Gittes is brilliantly portrayed by the enigmatic Jack Nicholson. Gittes is a private investigator who thrives in the morally ambiguous world of pre-World War II Southern California. His clients often lead him into the shadows of the city, where the line between right and wrong is blurred. The character of Gittes is a complex one, with a past that is only hinted at throughout the film. His cynical outlook on life is a result of his experiences, and it serves him well in his line of work.

The film also features the talented Faye Dunaway as Evelyn Cross Mulwray, the wife of a wealthy and powerful man. She hires Gittes to investigate her husband's suspected infidelity, setting off a chain of events that will change both of their lives forever. Evelyn is a mysterious and intriguing character, with secrets of her own that she is desperate to keep hidden. Her relationship with Gittes is complicated, and their chemistry on screen is palpable.

As the investigation unfolds, Gittes finds himself drawn into a web of lies and deceit that goes far beyond a simple case of marital infidelity. He uncovers a vast conspiracy involving water rights, political corruption, and murder. The film's intricate plot keeps the audience on the edge of their seats, as Gittes navigates the dangerous world of Chinatown. The film's climax is both shocking and satisfying, leaving the audience with a sense of closure and a newfound appreciation for the complexity of human nature. "Chinatown" is a true masterpiece of cinema, with unforgettable characters and a story that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Full Cast of Chinatown

Jack Nicholson
plays J.J. 'Jake' Gittes

Jack Nicholson as J.J. 'Jake' Gittes
Jack Nicholson delivers a masterful performance as J.J. 'Jake' Gittes in the 1974 neo-noir mystery film 'Chinatown'. His portrayal of the cynical private investigator is both captivating and nuanced, as he navigates the complex web of corruption and deceit in 1930s Los Angeles. Nicholson's ability to convey Gittes' intelligence, wit, and vulnerability with subtlety and depth adds layers of intrigue to the character, making him a truly memorable protagonist in this classic film. See Jack Nicholson's other roles

Faye Dunaway
plays Evelyn Cross Mulwray

Faye Dunaway as Evelyn Cross Mulwray
Faye Dunaway's portrayal of Evelyn Cross Mulwray in 'Chinatown' is a masterclass in subtlety and nuance. Her character, initially appearing as a stoic and aloof figure, gradually reveals layers of vulnerability and complexity. Dunaway's performance is marked by a restrained intensity that perfectly captures Evelyn's inner turmoil and the secrets she harbors. Her chemistry with Jack Nicholson's character is palpable, adding depth to the film's intricate narrative. Dunaway's ability to convey a wide range of emotions with just a glance or a subtle change in her voice is truly remarkable, making her performance a standout in this classic film noir. See Faye Dunaway's other roles

John Huston
plays Noah Cross

John Huston as Noah Cross
John Huston delivers a chilling performance as Noah Cross in the 1974 neo-noir film 'Chinatown'. His portrayal of the ruthless and manipulative businessman is both menacing and captivating. Huston's ability to convey Cross's cunning and sinister nature through subtle facial expressions and nuanced dialogue adds a layer of depth to the character that is truly unforgettable. His performance is a standout in a film filled with exceptional acting, and it is no wonder that 'Chinatown' is considered a classic of the genre. See John Huston's other roles

Perry Lopez
plays Lieutenant Lou Escobar

Perry Lopez as Lieutenant Lou Escobar
Perry Lopez delivers a commendable performance as Lieutenant Lou Escobar in the critically acclaimed film 'Chinatown'. His portrayal of the skeptical yet determined police officer adds a layer of authenticity to the neo-noir mystery. Lopez's on-screen chemistry with Jack Nicholson's character, Jake Gittes, is particularly noteworthy, as they navigate the complex web of corruption and deceit. His performance is a testament to his acting prowess, making Lieutenant Escobar a memorable character in this cinematic masterpiece. See Perry Lopez's other roles

John Hillerman
plays Russ Yelburton

John Hillerman as Russ Yelburton
John Hillerman's performance as Russ Yelburton in 'Chinatown' is a masterclass in subtlety and nuance. As the city engineer, Hillerman exudes an air of quiet authority, effortlessly commanding the screen with his precise diction and measured delivery. His character's arc is one of gradual revelation, as the true extent of his corruption is slowly unveiled. Hillerman's performance is a testament to his ability to convey complex emotions and motivations with the slightest of gestures, making Russ Yelburton a memorable and chilling figure in this classic film noir. See John Hillerman's other roles

Diane Ladd
plays Ida Sessions

Diane Ladd as Ida Sessions
In the neo-noir classic 'Chinatown', Diane Ladd delivers a compelling performance as Ida Sessions, a woman of many faces. As the enigmatic and duplicitous character, Ladd captivates the audience with her ability to seamlessly transition between personas. Her portrayal of Ida Sessions as a seemingly innocent and vulnerable woman, only to later reveal her true nature as a cunning and resourceful operator, adds a layer of intrigue and complexity to the film. Ladd's nuanced performance is a testament to her talent as an actress, and her character's impact on the narrative is undeniable. See Diane Ladd's other roles

Roman Polanski
plays Man with Knife

Roy Jenson
plays Claude Mulvihill

Richard Bakalyan
plays Detective Loach

James Hong
plays Evelyn's Butler

James Hong as Evelyn's Butler

James Hong (born February 22, 1929) is a Chinese American actor and former president of the Association of Asian/Paci...

See James Hong's other roles

Bruce Glover
plays Duffy

Joe Mantell
plays Lawrence Walsh

Roy Roberts
plays Mayor Bagby

Noble Willingham
plays Councilman

Rance Howard
plays Irate Farmer

Jesse Vint
plays Farmer in the Valley

Burt Young
plays Curly

Lee de Broux
plays Policeman

Darrell Zwerling
plays Hollis I. Mulwray

Nandu Hinds
plays Sophie

James O'Rear
plays Lawyer

Beulah Quo
plays Maid

Jerry Fujikawa
plays Gardener

Belinda Palmer
plays Katherine

Elliott Montgomery
plays Councilman

George Justin
plays Barber

C.O. Erickson
plays Customer

Charles Knapp
plays Mortician

Claudio Martínez
plays Boy on Horseback

Federico Roberto
plays Cross' Butler

Allan Warnick
plays Clerk

John Holland
plays Farmer in the Valley

Jim Burk
plays Farmer in the Valley

Denny Arnold
plays Farmer in the Valley

Elizabeth Harding
plays Curly's Wife

John Rogers
plays Mr. Palmer

Cecil Elliott
plays Emma Dill

Paul Jenkins
plays Policeman

Bob Golden
plays Policeman

Richard Warren
plays Driver (uncredited)

Fritzi Burr
plays Mulwray's Secreatry

Fritzi Burr as Mulwray's Secreatry

Fritzi Burr was born on May 31, 1924 and passed away 21 years ago at the age of 78 on January 17, 2003.

See Fritzi Burr's other roles

Cosmo Sardo
plays Barber (uncredited)


Crew of Chinatown

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