Popular screenwriter Robert Towne, best known for his Oscar-winning screenplay for the 1974 classic film ‘Chinatown’, has died at the age of 89.
Towne died at his home in Los Angeles, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Throughout his career, Towne received praise, with Academy Award nominations for the screenplays for “The Last Detail” (1973) and “Shampoo” (1975), which showcased his distinctive portrayal of Los Angeles, mixing sadness with beauty.
His screenplays often included iconic collaborations with actors such as Jack Nicholson and Warren Beatty, presenting the essence of Southern California in ways both charming and beguiling.
In addition to his renowned screenplays, Towne also made major contributions as a script doctor, including composing key scenes for films such as “The Godfather” and providing vital insight into projects such as “Bonnie and Clyde.”
Towne’s magnum opus, “Chinatown,” remains the pinnacle of noir cinema, influenced by Raymond Chandler and directed by Roman Polanski, starring Faye Dunaway and John Huston. The film’s intense narrative and Towne’s screenplay earned widespread critical acclaim, cementing its place in cinematic history.
Although Towne’s subsequent efforts, including “The Two Jakes” (1990), received mixed reviews, his influence extended beyond traditional screenwriting to blockbuster hits such as “Mission: Impossible” and “The Firm.”
In recent years, Towne has collaborated on a variety of projects and adaptations, demonstrating his lasting impact on Hollywood.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, he is survived by his wife Luisa, daughters Kathleen and Chiara, and other family members, and a memorial service to honor his legacy will be announced soon.
