You get tough. You get tender. You get close to each other. Maybe you even get close to the truth.

Starring: Jack Nicholson, Faye Dunaway, John Huston, Perry Lopez, John Hillerman, Darrell Zwerling, Diane Ladd, Roy Jenson

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★☆ - near perfect

"Let me explain something to you, Walsh. This business requires a certain amount of finesse" – Jake Gittes

Why watch this? Nicholson and Dunaway excel in this homage to noir film.

Plot Summary: In 1937 Los Angeles, a private investigator, Jake Gittes who specializes in divorce cases, is hired to expose an adulterer. His investigation into the affair of a prominent water engineer uncovers a web of deception, corruption, and ultimately, murder. He finds himself entangled in a vast conspiracy involving the city's water supply and the powerful figures manipulating it for their own gain.

Dad's Preview: This tale follows seedy detective hired to investigate an unfaithful husband. Things quickly escalate as he sticks his nose (literally) into a corruption scheme dealing with Los Angeles' water supply. It's dark and cynical, a favorite swamp where actor Jack Nicholson shines. His performance alone elevates the film, as does Dunaway's femme fatale portrayal. It was nominated for 11 Oscars, yet somehow, won only one.

Long Road Productions, Robert Evans Company; Paramount Pictures