John Gregory Dunne

Novelist and screenwriter of 'Play It as It Lays'

John Gregory Dunne - Novelist and screenwriter of 'Play It as It Lays'
Born

May 25th, 1932
92 years ago

Died

December 30th, 2003
21 years ago — 71 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

An American novelist, screenwriter, and critic contributed significantly to literature and film through a career spanning several decades. Authored several novels, including 'Play It as It Lays', which explored themes of despair and disillusionment in modern society. Collaborated with wife Joan Didion on screenplays such as 'Panic in Needle Park' and 'The Seven-Per-Cent Solution'. Additionally, served as a critic for various publications, offering insights into contemporary American culture. Dunne's writing often reflected personal experiences and societal observations, garnering attention for its incisive prose and depth of characterization.

Authored the novel 'Play It as It Lays'

Co-wrote the screenplay for 'Panic in Needle Park'

Contributed as a critic for various publications

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