Subtext: Conversations about Classic Books and Films Trauma and Repetition in Roman Polanski’s “Chinatown” (1974)
Feb 13, 2023
Delve into the dark layers of Roman Polanski's 'Chinatown,' where trauma and secrecy intertwine. The setting reveals more than meets the eye, encapsulating themes of corruption, police ethics, and personal struggles. Explore the moral ambiguity of Jake Gittes and his flawed journey through a treacherous landscape. The discussion navigates the intersections of ambition, familial ties, and societal decay, showcasing how the past haunts the present. Water becomes a powerful symbol, emphasizing the cyclical nature of truth and deception. Expect thought-provoking insights!
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Chinatown As Hidden Trauma
- Chinatown functions as a hidden traumatic site rather than a literal setting in Polanski's film.
- The name signals inscrutability and a repeating wound that drives the protagonist's decisions.
Trauma Explains Jake's Blind Spots
- Jake's offhand bigotry and reference to Chinatown hint at an earlier failure that haunts him.
- That unspecified trauma explains his vulnerability and the film's circular repetition motif.
Investigator As Outsider
- Chinatown symbolizes an unassimilated cultural pocket that resists investigative methods.
- Investigators like Jake are effectively colonial outsiders who cannot fully 'plug in' to that community.
