The Two Jakes (1990)

The American neo-noir mystery film The Two Jakes (1990) serves as a sequel to the 1974 classic Chinatown. Jack Nicholson once again takes on the role of J.J. ‘Jake’ Gittes, both directing and starring in the film. Set in 1948 Los Angeles, businessman Julius ‘Jake’ Berman hires the seasoned private investigator to catch his wife, Kitty, in an act of adultery. During the sting operation, Berman unexpectedly kills his wife’s lover, Mark Bodine – who also happens to be his business partner in a real estate development company. This turn of events lands Gittes under scrutiny for his role in what appears to be a premeditated murder. The key evidence against him is a wire recording that captured the illicit encounter, confrontation, and subsequent killing of Bodine.

However, it remains unclear whether Berman intended to commit murder or if it was a spontaneous act of jealousy – possibly qualifying as ‘temporary insanity’, which can serve as a defense in such cases. Gittes must convince former acquaintance Captain Lou Escobar of the Los Angeles Police Department not to charge him as an accomplice. Interestingly, Berman does not seem concerned about potentially facing murder charges. With the recording in his possession, Gittes finds himself at odds with Berman’s attorney Cotton Weinberger and mobster friend Mickey Nice, who both want it. The recording is currently locked away in Gittes’ office safe. Recent earthquakes have shaken the area, including Berman’s housing development in the Valley. After a close call with a gas explosion, which nearly kills him, Gittes wakes up to see Berman and Kitty looking down at him.