Robert Towne, celebrated for his iconic screenplays including “Chinatown” and “Mission: Impossible,” has passed away at 89, leaving behind a legacy as one of Hollywood’s greatest screenwriters.
His Oscar-winning script for “Chinatown” in 1974, starring Jack Nicholson, remains a cornerstone of his career.
Lee Grant, reflecting on Towne’s impact, praised his incisive and original storytelling, particularly highlighting his gift with films like “Shampoo,” which earned her an Oscar.
Beyond his acclaimed works, Towne was renowned as a skilled script doctor, contributing to films like “Bonnie and Clyde” and “The Godfather” without always receiving formal credit.
Francis Ford Coppola notably acknowledged Towne’s pivotal contribution to “The Godfather,” citing his writing for a memorable scene.
Towne’s career saw him earn Oscar nominations for “The Last Detail” and “Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan, Lord of the Apes,” though he disowned the latter due to creative differences.
His collaboration with Roman Polanski on “Chinatown” was marked by intense creative clashes, yet the film stands as a testament to their artistic collaboration.
Critically acclaimed for his writing, Towne’s screenplay for “Chinatown” ranks among the greatest ever by the Writers Guild of America and Vulture’s list of top screenwriters.
His contributions extended to successful films like “Days of Thunder” and “The Firm,” both starring Tom Cruise, and his involvement in launching the “Mission: Impossible” franchise.
Throughout his career, Towne also ventured into directing, notably with “Personal Best” and “Tequila Sunrise,” and contributed as a consulting producer on “Mad Men.”
He is survived by his second wife, Luisa, and daughters Chiara and Katharine.
Source-BBC
