“Chinatown,” directed by Roman Polanski and released in 1974, is a quintessential neo-noir film that delves into corruption, mystery , and the dark underbelly of 1930s Los Angeles. With a compelling performance by Jack Nicholson as private investigator J.J. “Jake” Gittes, the film masterfully intertwines complex characters and intricate plotlines, making it a rich subject for literary analysis.
Chinatown employs various literary devices to enhance its storytelling. Below is an analysis of 10 key devices used in the film.
1. Symbolism
Movie Scene Device Example The broken glasses in the pond Symbolize Evelyn’s secrets and the fractured truth Chinatown itself Represents confusion, corruption, and hopelessness
2. Foreshadowing
Movie Scene Device Example The initial conversation about water rights Hints at the central conflict involving the water supply Evelyn’s scar Foretells her traumatic past and hidden truth
3. Irony
Movie Scene Device Example Jake’s advice to avoid Chinatown Ironically, he ends up there, unable to escape his past The optimism of the Californian Dream Contrasted with the underlying corruption in LA
4. Motif
Movie Scene Device Example Recurring imagery of water Reflects the central conflict over water rights The motif of eyes and glasses Represents perception, truth, and secrets
5. Allusion
Movie Scene Device Example References to Greek tragedies Hints at the inevitable tragic ending Use of 1930s LA backdrop Alludes to historical corruption and real events
6. Flashback
Movie Scene Device Example Evelyn’s recounting of her past Reveals crucial backstory and motives Noah Cross’s memories Provides context to his current actions and ideology
7. Red Herring
Movie Scene Device Example Initial suspicion on Hollis Mulwray Diverts attention from the real antagonist Misleading clues given to Jake Keeps the audience and Jake in suspense
8. Paradox
Movie Scene Device Example The law’s role in corruption The law is both the enforcer and the violator Evelyn’s love for her daughter/sister A complex mix of familial and romantic love
9. Juxtaposition
Movie Scene Device Example LA’s sunny, serene environment Contrasts with the dark, sinister events Wealth and opulence of the Cross estate Juxtaposed with the drought and suffering of the city
10. Irony
Movie Scene Device Example The optimistic facade of characters Contrasts with their true, dark intentions The American Dream depicted Contrasted with the harsh realities of greed and power
Character Studies
J.J. “Jake” Gittes
Literary Device Explanation Symbolism Jake’s suits symbolize his outward professionalism but inner corruption Irony Despite his cynicism, he’s caught off-guard by the real depth of corruption
Evelyn Mulwray
Literary Device Explanation Foreshadowing Her scar and secrecy hint at her tragic past and complex motives Motif Eyes and glasses represent her hidden truths and vulnerability
Noah Cross
Literary Device Explanation Paradox A powerful man who uses his power to destroy rather than build Symbolism His name “Cross” symbolizes his domineering and intersecting influence
Character Dynamics
The relationships between characters in “Chinatown” drive the narrative and themes.
Literary Device Explanation Juxtaposition Jake’s moral ambiguity versus Evelyn’s tragic victimhood highlights the complexity of morality in the story Symbolism The relationship between Noah and Evelyn symbolizes the corrupt and destructive influence of power and wealth
Corruption and Power
Literary Device Explanation Symbolism Water symbolizes both life and the manipulation of power Irony The people entrusted with protecting the public are the most corrupt
Identity and Perception
Literary Device Explanation Motif The recurring theme of eyes and vision represents truth and perception Juxtaposition Characters’ public facades versus their private truths highlight identity conflicts
Tragedy and Hopelessness
Literary Device Explanation Foreshadowing Early hints at a tragic ending underscore the theme of inevitable tragedy Flashback Reveals the inescapable past and its tragic consequences
Visual and Sound Techniques
Literary Device Technique Explanation Symbolism Use of shadows Enhances the theme of hidden truths and moral ambiguity Foreshadowing Ominous music cues Signals impending doom and heightens suspense Irony Contrasting lighting Bright scenes for dark events and vice versa, emphasizing ironic contrasts
Scene Selection
Scene: Jake Discovers the Truth
YouTube Link: Jake Discovers the Truth
Scene Breakdown:
Literary Devices: The use of foreshadowing , irony , and symbolism .Impact: This scene ties together the plot’s various threads, revealing the depth of corruption and deceit. The stark realization hits both Jake and the audience, showcasing the mastery of literary and cinematic techniques in delivering a powerful climax .
Interactive Multiple Choice Quiz
Test your understanding of the literary devices used in “Chinatown” with this quiz:
What does the recurring motif of water symbolize in “Chinatown”?
A) Wealth
B) Power and corruption
C) Love
D) Justice
How is irony used in Jake’s character arc?
A) He starts as an idealist and becomes cynical.
B) He advises others to avoid Chinatown but ends up there himself.
C) He is always truthful.
D) He remains unaffected by the events around him.
What does Evelyn’s scar foreshadow?
A) Her relationship with Jake
B) Her tragic past and the film’s dark revelations
C) Her wealth
D) Her innocence
How does the use of shadows enhance the film’s themes?
A) They create a romantic atmosphere .
B) They symbolize hidden truths and moral ambiguity .
C) They highlight the beauty of Los Angeles.
D) They add a cheerful tone to the film.
What is ironic about the portrayal of the Californian Dream in the film?
A) It is depicted as easily achievable.
B) It contrasts with the underlying corruption and deceit.
C) It is shown to be unimportant.
D) It represents true happiness and success.
