Robert Towne, the celebrated screenwriter of the iconic Hollywood film “Chinatown,” has passed away at the age of 89. This film is often hailed as one of the greatest screenplays in the history of cinema. Towne’s death was confirmed by his agent, Carrie McClure, in a statement sent to Agence France-Presse on Tuesday. She noted that Towne died peacefully at his home on Monday, surrounded by his loving family.
Towne established himself as a leading figure in the New Hollywood movement of the 1970s. He was renowned not only for “Chinatown,” which earned him an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay but also for penning the first two installments of the “Mission: Impossible” series.
Throughout his career, Towne’s contributions to cinema extended beyond the films that officially bore his name. He had a hand in many classic films, often uncredited. His influence is seen in such notable works as “Bonnie and Clyde” and “The Godfather.”
In the early stages of his career during the 1960s, Towne worked as a “creative consultant.” His talent and contributions were widely recognized, even if his name wasn’t always featured in the credits.
Towne’s involvement with “The Godfather” earned him special recognition at the Academy Awards. Francis Ford Coppola, who won the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay for the film, publicly acknowledged Towne’s invaluable input. Coppola specifically praised a poignant scene between Marlon Brando and Al Pacino in the garden, highlighting Towne’s significant role in its creation.
Robert Towne’s legacy is marked by his profound impact on the film industry, shaping some of the most memorable and influential movies of his time. His work continues to inspire and set a high standard for screenwriting in Hollywood.