Introduction
Robert Towne is a legendary screenwriter who has been a major influence in Hollywood for decades. He has written some of the most iconic films in history, including Chinatown, The Last Detail, and Shampoo. His work has earned him numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for Chinatown. In this post, we will take a closer look at Robert Towne, his life, and his work.
Early Life and Career
Childhood and Education
Robert Towne was born on November 23, 1934, in Los Angeles, California. He grew up in the San Pedro area of the city and attended Harbor College before transferring to Pomona College. He graduated from Pomona in 1956 with a degree in English.
Early Career
After college, Towne worked as a script reader and a television writer. He wrote several episodes of the popular TV series The Lloyd Bridges Show and The Outer Limits. He also worked as an uncredited writer on several films, including Bonnie and Clyde and The Godfather.
Major Works
The Last Detail
The Last Detail is a 1973 film directed by Hal Ashby and written by Robert Towne. The film stars Jack Nicholson, Randy Quaid, and Otis Young, and tells the story of two Navy men who are escorting a young sailor to prison. The film was a critical and commercial success and earned Towne an Academy Award nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay.
Chinatown
Chinatown is a 1974 film directed by Roman Polanski and written by Robert Towne. The film stars Jack Nicholson, Faye Dunaway, and John Huston, and tells the story of a private detective who becomes embroiled in a complex web of corruption and deceit in 1930s Los Angeles. The film was a critical and commercial success and earned Towne an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
Shampoo
Shampoo is a 1975 film directed by Hal Ashby and written by Robert Towne. The film stars Warren Beatty, Julie Christie, and Goldie Hawn, and tells the story of a hairdresser who is having affairs with several women on the eve of the 1968 presidential election. The film was a critical and commercial success and earned Towne an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay.
Legacy
Influence on Screenwriting
Robert Towne is widely regarded as one of the greatest screenwriters in history. His work has influenced countless writers and filmmakers, and his style and approach to storytelling continue to be studied and emulated today.
Awards and Honors
Robert Towne has been honored with numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. In addition to his Academy Award wins and nominations, he has also received a BAFTA Award, a Writers Guild of America Award, and a Golden Globe Award.
Conclusion
Robert Towne is a true legend in the world of screenwriting. His iconic films, including Chinatown and The Last Detail, have stood the test of time and continue to be celebrated today. His influence on the art of screenwriting is immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of writers and filmmakers for years to come.
FAQ
Who is Robert Towne?
Robert Towne is a renowned American screenwriter, director, and producer who has been active in the entertainment industry since the 1960s. He is best known for his work on iconic films such as Chinatown, The Last Detail, and Mission: Impossible.
What are some of Robert Towne’s most famous films?
Robert Towne is known for his work on several iconic films, including Chinatown, The Last Detail, Shampoo, Days of Thunder, and Mission: Impossible.
What is Robert Towne’s most famous screenplay?
Robert Towne’s most famous screenplay is Chinatown, which he wrote in 1974. The film is widely regarded as a masterpiece of American cinema and is considered one of the greatest screenplays ever written.
What awards has Robert Towne won?
Robert Towne has won numerous awards throughout his career, including an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for Chinatown, as well as nominations for his screenplays for The Last Detail and Shampoo. He has also won several Golden Globe Awards and Writers Guild of America Awards.
Has Robert Towne directed any films?
Yes, Robert Towne has directed several films throughout his career, including Personal Best, Tequila Sunrise, and Without Limits.
What makes Robert Towne’s screenplays so iconic?
Robert Towne is known for his ability to create complex, multi-layered characters and intricate plots that often explore themes of power, corruption, and betrayal. His screenplays are also known for their sharp dialogue and attention to detail, which have helped to establish him as one of the greatest screenwriters of all time.
