The Two Jakes is a 1990 neo-noir mystery film that serves as a sequel to the acclaimed 1974 movie Chinatown. It continues the story of private investigator J.J. "Jake" Gittes, now tackling a new case involving infidelity, murder, and corruption in post-war Los Angeles. This explanation covers what The Two Jakes is about, how it connects to Chinatown, its production background, reception, and common misunderstandings about the film.
What is The Two Jakes and what happens in it?
The Two Jakes is a detective story set in 1948 Los Angeles, combining crime, mystery, and noir elements. Private eye J.J. "Jake" Gittes is hired by a wealthy oilman named Jake Berman to investigate suspicions about his wife’s fidelity. As Gittes investigates, he uncovers a complicated web of deceit involving land deals, murder, and corruption connected to the booming oil industry after World War II. The film explores themes of betrayal, greed, and the darker side of Los Angeles’ expansion during that era. Its mood is atmospheric and relies on character-driven tension rather than action sequences.
For example, the investigation starts as a personal matter but soon reveals larger power struggles related to oil rights, reflecting the city’s changing economic landscape.
How does The Two Jakes relate to Chinatown?
The Two Jakes is a direct sequel to Chinatown, continuing the story of Jake Gittes, who was the lead character in the original film. Chinatown, set in 1937 Los Angeles, follows Gittes uncovering a conspiracy about water rights and family secrets that deeply affects him. The sequel takes place about a decade later, with Gittes still working as a private investigator but facing new challenges tied to the oil industry. Some characters, including Gittes, return, but the film also introduces new figures like Jake Berman.
Thematically, both films explore corruption and moral ambiguity in Los Angeles. While Chinatown centers on water as a symbol of power struggles, The Two Jakes shifts focus to oil as the new source of influence in the city. The sequel aims to keep the noir atmosphere and intricate storytelling that made Chinatown a classic, while examining different aspects of the city’s darker history.
What was the production history behind The Two Jakes?
The Two Jakes had a difficult production history. Jack Nicholson directed the film and reprised his role as Jake Gittes. The screenplay was co-written by Robert Towne, who wrote Chinatown’s script, intending to continue the story with similar depth and style. Originally, Roman Polanski, the director of Chinatown, was expected to direct the sequel, but legal and personal issues prevented his involvement.
The film faced delays and challenges including disputes over financing and creative control. The cast included returning star Jack Nicholson and newcomers like Harvey Keitel as Jake Berman. Filming took longer than planned, which some believe affected the final film’s cohesion. Despite these problems, the filmmakers aimed to honor Chinatown’s legacy while exploring new narrative ground.
How was The Two Jakes received by critics and audiences?
When it came out, The Two Jakes received mixed reviews from both critics and audiences. Some praised its attempt to capture the noir style and complex storytelling of Chinatown, but many found it slower and less engaging. It struggled to meet the high expectations set by the original film.
Over time, The Two Jakes has remained a niche film, appreciated by a segment of viewers for its atmosphere and performances but often overshadowed by Chinatown. Its reception reflects the difficulties sequels face in living up to a revered original, especially when balancing homage with fresh ideas.
What are common misconceptions or overlooked facts about The Two Jakes?
A common misconception is that Roman Polanski directed The Two Jakes, when in fact Jack Nicholson was the director. Another misunderstanding is that the sequel is a direct continuation with the same tone and cast — while Jake Gittes returns, the film introduces new characters and shifts thematically from water to oil.
Many people also assume The Two Jakes had a wide release and impact comparable to Chinatown, but it was less commercially successful and had a more limited audience. An often overlooked fact is that Robert Towne, the original Chinatown screenwriter, also co-wrote The Two Jakes, which explains the film’s attempt at narrative complexity despite its mixed reception.
Conclusion
If you’re a fan of film noir or the legacy of Chinatown, The Two Jakes offers a continuation of Jake Gittes’s story with a different focus and tone. While it hasn’t received the same acclaim as Chinatown, it still provides insight into post-war Los Angeles and explores new themes of corruption tied to the oil industry. Watching both films together gives a fuller understanding of the character’s journey and the city’s changing power struggles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to watch Chinatown before The Two Jakes?
You don’t have to, but seeing Chinatown first will help you understand Jake Gittes’s background and the context for the sequel’s story.
Is The Two Jakes considered as good as Chinatown?
No, The Two Jakes received more mixed reviews and is generally seen as less successful both artistically and commercially than Chinatown.
Why didn’t Roman Polanski direct The Two Jakes?
Polanski was not involved because of legal and personal issues at the time, so Jack Nicholson directed the film instead.