The Casting Choices That Almost Changed Movies As We Know Them

The mystery in Chinatown (1974) needed a woman who seemed composed from a distance and shattered up close. Jane Fonda was among the major names considered for Evelyn Mulwray, though the casting history is more complicated than a simple pass. Faye Dunaway ultimately gave the role a guarded, wounded elegance that became central to the film’s spell. Her performance does not explain itself too early. It withholds, stiffens, softens, and retreats, which makes the final revelations land with greater force.