''Chinatown'', 1974 - art by Richard Amsel

A vintage movie poster of ''Chinatown'', a classic American neo-noir film released in 1974, directed by Roman Polanski and written by Robert Towne.... more

by Movie World Posters

Title

''Chinatown'', 1974 - art by Richard Amsel

Artist

Movie World Posters

Medium

Mixed Media - Vintage Movie Poster

Description

A vintage movie poster of ''Chinatown'', a classic American neo-noir film released in 1974, directed by Roman Polanski and written by Robert Towne. The film is widely regarded as one of the greatest examples of the neo-noir genre and has left a lasting impact on the history of cinema.

Set in 1937 Los Angeles, "Chinatown" follows the story of J.J. "Jake" Gittes, a private investigator played by Jack Nicholson. Gittes is hired to investigate a case involving adultery, or so he thinks. He is approached by a woman named Evelyn Mulwray, played by Faye Dunaway, who believes her husband, Hollis Mulwray, the chief engineer for the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, is having an affair. As Gittes delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a complex web of corruption, deceit, and dark secrets.

The film takes its title from the Chinatown district in Los Angeles, which becomes a central symbol throughout the story. Chinatown represents a place of mystery, danger, and moral ambiguity, where nothing is as it seems, and where good intentions can lead to tragic consequences.

As the investigation unfolds, Gittes becomes entangled in a conspiracy involving a plot to divert water from the city's reservoirs to benefit wealthy land developers. The film explores themes of power, greed, and the corrupting influence of wealth and authority. It also delves into the past traumas of its characters, ultimately revealing a shocking and devastating truth.

"Chinatown" is known for its intricate and tightly woven plot, sharp and memorable dialogue, and outstanding performances by the cast, particularly Jack Nicholson and Faye Dunaway. The film's cinematography, with its moody and atmospheric lighting, pays homage to the classic film noir style while adding a modern sensibility. The haunting score by Jerry Goldsmith also contributes to the film's eerie atmosphere.

The movie is celebrated for its exploration of moral ambiguity and the idea that sometimes, even with the best of intentions, it is impossible to escape the dark forces at play in a corrupt world. "Chinatown" is not only a masterful example of the neo-noir genre but also a timeless classic in the history of American cinema.

About the artist:


Richard Amsel (December 4, 1947 – November 13, 1985) was an American illustrator and graphic designer. His career was brief but prolific, spanning the creation of movie posters, album covers, and magazine covers.

He was born in Philadelphia, enrolling at the Philadelphia College of Art after high school. Soon after graduating, when he was 22, he created a proposed poster for the Barbra Streisand musical “Hello, Dolly!” During a nationwide talent search for artists, 20th Century Fox selected it as the winning poster.

Following that early success, Amsel designed the artwork for Bette Midler's debut album. Subsequently, several publishers commissioned him to design magazine covers, including Lily Tomlin’s “Time” cover in 1977.
He also worked with “TV Guide,” designing more than 40 covers over 13 years.

He created many recognizable movie posters during the 1970s, including “The Champ,” “Chinatown,” “Julia,” “The Last Picture Show,” “The Last Tycoon,” “The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean,” “McCabe & Mrs. Miller,” “The Muppet Movie,” “Murder on the Orient Express,” “Nashville,” “Papillon,” “The Shootist,” and “The Sting.”

Amsel received multiple awards during his brief career, including the New York and Los Angeles Society of Illustrators Award, a Golden Key Award from “The Hollywood Reporter,” and a Grammy Award.

In 1985, Amsel died of AIDS at the age of 37. A documentary film about his life was announced in January 2016 and is currently in production. It will be titled “Amsel: Illustrator of the Lost Art.”

Search "Amsel" to see his other art.

Uploaded

January 26th, 2022