Friday, January 22, 2010

Film Noir Fridays: Chinatown


Join us on Fridays throughout the Big Read program for special cinematic journeys through the shady underbelly of film noir. The series kicks off tonight at Sweet Briar College as private investigator J.J. Gittes becomes embroiled in a mysterious murder investigation. The 1974 neo-noir film features many elements of the film noir genre, particularly a multi-layered story that is part mystery and part psychological drama. It stars Jack Nicholson, Faye Dunaway, and John Huston, and went on to win numerous awards, including the 1974 Oscar for Best Original Screenplay.

The story, set in Los Angeles in 1937, was inspired by the historical disputes over land and water rights that had raged in southern California during the 1910s and 20s, in which William Mulholland acted on behalf of Los Angeles interests to secure water rights in the Owens Valley.

Will J.J. uncover the massive conspiracy? Forget it, Jake, its Chinatown.



Just the Facts:
Date: January 22, 2010
Time: 8:00 pm
Location: Sweet Briar College, Fitness/Athletic Center Class of ’48 Movie Theatre (map it!)
Cost: FREE

Not convinced? Check out the Tomatometer at Rotten Tomatoes to see what film critics and film lovers have to say!

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