Director Roman Polanski and Jack Nicholson’s classic 1974 noir film Chinatown turns 50 years old this year and in celebration, it’s undergone a 4K restoration that was done using the original camera negative. This summer, you will be able to buy a limited edition 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray for the first time.
The 4K disc will also come with a digital copy of the film, as well as a Blu-ray copy of the 1990 sequel The Two Jakes, in which Nicholson reprised his role as Jake and took over directing duties.
Chinatown tells the story of private detective J.J. Gittes as he becomes embroiled in a complex web of deceit, corruption, and murder all revolving around the Los Angeles water supply in the 1930s. Gittes uncovers a vast conspiracy involving the city’s elite. The film is celebrated for its intricate plot, atmospheric setting, and it has become a landmark film in the noir genre.
Paramount Presents announced the new 4K edition will be released on June 18th and it will be presented in new, limited edition packaging, which features the poster on the inside cover.
Chinatown’s 4K release will also include a slew of special features, many of which have never been released with any previous edition of the film.
Here is a full rundown of the brand new bonus content set to accompany Chinatown’s 4K Blu-ray:
A State of Mind: Author Sam Wasson On Chinatown — Sam Wasson, film historian and bestselling author of The Big Goodbye: Chinatown and the Last Years of Hollywood, on the importance of the film and its legacy.
Chinatown Memories — Legendary producer Hawk Koch shares stories from his time as assistant director on the film.
The Trilogy That Never Was — Sam Wasson discusses the planned third installment of what would have been a trio of movies featuring the character Jake Gittes.
In addition to the new features, the new edition of Chinatown will also include bonus content from previous home releases.
Commentary by screenwriter Robert Towne with David Fincher
Water and Power
Chinatown: An Appreciation
Chinatown: The Beginning and the End
Chinatown: Filming
Chinatown: Legacy
Theatrical Trailer
The movie also stars Faye Dunaway, John Hillerman, Perry Lopez, Burt Young, and John Huston. The film received 11 Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture. Its lone Oscar victory was given to Robert Townes for Best Screenplay.
