1960s Los Angeles

His 1974 film 'Chinatown' is the definitive neo-noir exploration of 1960s Los Angeles corruption, water politics, and moral decay.

Though working later, his meticulous recreation of 1960s LA in 'Zodiac' captures the era's paranoia, media sensationalism, and urban atmosphere with precision.

His 1997 film 'L.A. Confidential' vividly portrays 1950s-60s Los Angeles underbelly with its corrupt police force, jazz culture, and brutal Americana.