The Legacy of Robert Towne: A Hollywood Screenwriting Icon
Robert Towne, the acclaimed screenwriter behind some of Hollywood's most iconic films, passed away at the age of 89 at his home in Los Angeles. Known for his masterful touch in the world of cinema, Towne's contributions have left an indelible mark on the industry. His work on the neo-noir classic 'Chinatown' earned him an Academy Award and solidified his reputation as a groundbreaking writer.
Towne's career spanned several decades, during which he wrote and contributed to numerous films that have become cinematic treasures. Among his notable works are 'The Last Detail', 'Shampoo', and 'Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan, King of the Apes'. Despite his dissatisfaction with the final cut of 'Greystoke', he considered it some of his best work and even credited his dog, P.H. Vazak, in place of his own name.
A Master of Script Doctoring
Beyond his credited works, Towne was a sought-after script doctor, often called upon to refine and enhance scripts that lacked cohesion. His uncredited contributions to 'The Godfather', 'Marathon Man', and 'Heaven Can Wait' are a testament to his skill and versatility. In fact, he was ranked third on Vulture's list of the 100 Greatest Screenwriters of All Time, only behind Billy Wilder and the Coen Brothers.
Towne's journey began in San Pedro, Los Angeles, where he was born Robert Bertram Schwartz. His passion for film was ignited by the local Warner Bros. theater, and he pursued English Literature and Philosophy at Pomona College. His early career saw him working under Roger Corman and on television series like 'The Lloyd Bridges Show'. A chance meeting with Warren Beatty led to his involvement in the script for 'Bonnie and Clyde', although his name did not appear in the credits.
Despite the shifting tides of Hollywood's preferences in the late 1970s, Towne continued to leave his mark through mega-productions like 'Mission: Impossible' and 'Days of Thunder'. He also ventured into directing, with films such as 'Tequila Sunrise' and 'Ask the Wind'. His influence extended to television, where he served as a consultant on the series 'Mad Men' and collaborated with David Fincher on a Netflix series exploring the 'Chinatown' universe.
- Robert Towne's early work in Hollywood was characterized by his ability to improve scripts that were otherwise deemed unworkable. His knack for elevating a story's dramatic elements made him a valuable asset to many film projects.
- Towne's contributions to 'The Godfather' and other major films often went uncredited, yet his influence was undeniable. His ability to remain in the shadows while crafting pivotal scenes demonstrated his humility and dedication to the craft.
- In addition to his screenwriting, Towne's directorial efforts, though not always commercially successful, showcased his versatility and deep understanding of character and narrative. His film 'Tequila Sunrise' was a notable success, highlighting his ability to handle both writing and directing responsibilities.
