Unlike a large majority of episodes "Chinatown" isn't pointedly about a certain issue. The family issue is well-integrated into the episode and doesn't stick out like a sore thumb, making for an episode which doesn't have too many rough edges.
When Jaime's off-duty pursuit of a gangster ends up with the gangster dead, IA begins an investigation, possibly finding out about Jaime's involvement with the FBI. While nothing about the Blue Templar is revealed and IA finds nothing, the episode is more about consequences, more specifically consequences of becoming a cop. In Joe's case, it was death. In Jaime's case, it means losing his fiancee.
Predictably, Sydney, who's been troubled every episode, leaves for a six month job in London and her ring as well. She was never a developed character, but I feel bad for both of them. He followed his calling, Sydney followed hers, and they're over.
I'm surprised the reporter/ex-girlfriend only showed up once. The lesson of the episode is that it's best if you detach your personal life from your work life. Applied to the reporter, while she does say she misses Frank, she also has to do her job in asking tough questions. But since there's no follow up, either I'm off-base or the writers are reserving development until later.
Score: 8.8/10
