The Two Jakes

The Two Jakes

Year: 1990

Runtime: 137 min

Language: English

DramaMysteryComedyCrime

In 1940s Los Angeles, private investigator Jake Gittes takes on a divorce case for real estate developer Jake Berman, only to find himself embroiled in a complicated web of deceit. His investigation reveals a conspiracy involving valuable oil reserves and deceptive business dealings. As Gittes digs deeper, he’s drawn into a dangerous game of cat and mouse, with echoes of a past case in Chinatown complicating matters further.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen The Two Jakes yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline – The Two Jakes (1990)

Trace every key event in The Two Jakes (1990) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Wiretapping Scandal Uncovered

In the aftermath of the war in Los Angeles, private investigator J.J. 'Jake' Gittes is hired by real-estate developer Jake Berman. He initiates a wiretapping scheme to uncover Berman's unfaithful wife Kitty's alleged affair with Bodine, Berman's associate, leading to unexpected consequences.

Los Angeles
2

Murder at the Motel

During an intense confrontation, Jake Berman commits cold-blooded murder, shooting Bodine as he hides in the motel's bathroom. This shocking event is recorded on Gittes's tape, forever altering the course of the investigation.

motel
3

The Painful Connection

The murder tape hints at Katherine Mulwray, a name that resurfaces painful memories for Gittes. The connection is profound, as Katherine is tied to Gittes's past involving Evelyn Mulwray, dredging up old feelings and conflicts.

4

Financial Motives Revealed

Investigating further, Gittes discovers that Berman's motive for murder was financial gain. Berman orchestrated Bodine’s murder to secure his stake in the profitable B&B Homes, revealing the depths of his treachery.

5

Suspicion of Conspiracy

The intrigue deepens when it is uncovered that Bodine's will excludes his widow, Lillian Bodine. This raises red flags about a potential conspiracy between Berman and Kitty, suggesting ulterior motives behind their actions.

6

Devious Real Estate Plans

Gittes uncovers Berman's nefarious plans, where his real estate developments are being exploited for oil resources. This revelation points to a larger scheme involving the greedy oil magnate, Earl Rawley, complicating an already tangled situation.

7

Pivotal Court Hearing

In a critical court hearing, Gittes presents the recorded evidence of the murder. However, he makes a risky decision to manipulate the audio, shielding Berman's actions and protecting the enigmatic Kitty, who is revealed to be Katherine.

court
8

Legal Complications

Gittes learns that Katherine was forced to surrender her rights to valuable land and mineral wealth. This legal shift reveals the deceit that surrounded her and burdens her identity as she navigates the treacherous waters of manipulation.

9

Blackmail and Confrontation

Bodine's blackmail over Berman regarding Katherine's true identity leads to a fatal confrontation. As tensions escalate, the stakes are raised high, ultimately resulting in disastrous consequences.

10

Berman's Final Decision

Desperate to secure his wife's future amid his terminal illness, Berman chooses to end his own life. This dramatic act reflects his desperation and the extent to which he is entangled in the web of deception he created.

11

Heartfelt Exchange

In a somber conclusion, Gittes has a meaningful conversation with Kitty/Katherine as she prepares to leave his office. They reflect on the burdens of their shared history, culminating in the poignant realization that the past never truly disappears.

Gittes's office

Last Updated: October 28, 2024 at 08:37

Unlock the Full Story of The Two Jakes

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Two Jakes in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what The Two Jakes is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Two Jakes Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Two Jakes, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Two Jakes Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Two Jakes

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape The Two Jakes. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Two Jakes

More About The Two Jakes

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Two Jakes: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About The Two Jakes

Similar Movies to The Two Jakes

Discover movies like The Two Jakes that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.