Chinatown 4K Ultra HD

In "Chinatown," private eye Jake Gittes (Jack Nicholson), living off the murky moral climate of sunbaked, pre-war Southern California, is hired by a beautiful socialite (Faye Dunaway) to investigate her husband's extra-marital affair, Gittes is swept into a maelstrom of double dealings and deadly deceits, uncovering a web of personal and political scandals that come crashing together for one, unforgettable night. (Gary Reber)

Special features include commentary by Screenwriter Robert Towne with David Fincher; seven featurettes: "A State Of Mind: Author Sam Wasson On Chinatown" (HD 15:57), "Chinatown Memories" (HD 05:43), "The Trilogy That Never Was" (HD 02:07), "Water And Power" (SD 17:45), "Chinatown: An Appreciation" (SD 26:13), "Chinatown: The Beginning And The End" (SD 19:26), "Chinatown: Filming" (SD 25:53) and "Chinatown: The Legacy" (SD 09:36), theatrical trailer and a Movies Anywhere digital copy.

The 2.35:1 2160p HEVC/H.265 4K Ultra HD Dolby Vision/HDR10 picture, reviewed on a VIZIO Quantum X P85QX-JI UHD/HDR display, was photographed on 35mm film stock using the Panavision Panaflex camera system and sourced from a 4K Digital Intermediate produced from the original 35mm camera negative, which was repaired using the latest technology in areas that had been previously damaged. The restoration looks terrific with its very filmic appearance. Film grain is virtually not an issue as it is virtually non-existent. Color fidelity exhibits saturated hues that reveal fine shadings. Color s appear warm and rich in character. Wood grains are noticeable in several scenes with rich brownish hues. Earth tones appear natural as well as the appearance of water. Paint jobs on the numerous classic cars are beautiful and appear newish. Flesh tones are natural though slightly darkly hued in appearance. HDR contrast is well balanced with solid blacks, revealing shadows and natural white levels. Resolution is excellent with fine detail exhibited in facial features such as pores, lines and hair. Costume fabrics are clearly identified. Object texture is discernible. This is a terrific cinematic picture of a true American classic. (Gary Reber)

The repurposed Dolby TrueHD 5.1-channel soundtrack has a satisfying dated quality with generally good fidelity. Dialogue focused, the dialogue delivers excellent spatial integration. Atmospherics are realistic. Sound effects such gushing water, gun shots, and cars are dynamic sounding. Jerry Goldsmith's orchestral score delivers good fidelity with a wide and deep soundstage that extends to the surrounds to envelop the soundfield. Surround energy is essentially limited to the music, some atmospherics, and sound effects. This is a fine soundtrack that is nicely preserved for a classic film. (Gary Reber)