In 1937 Los Angeles, a private investigator named Jake 'J.J.' Gittes is hired to tail Hollis Mulwray, the chief engineer of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, who is suspected of infidelity by his wife.

Chinatown
In 1930s Los Angeles, a detective's inquiry into an extramarital affair unravels a complex web of dishonesty, bribery, and murder.