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'Glory', 'Tombstone' Screenwriter Kevin Jarre Dies At 56

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Kevin Jarre, who wrote the screenplays for the movies "Glory" and "Tombstone," has died. He was 56.

His aunt, Patty Briley Bean, tells the Los Angeles Times that Jarre died unexpectedly of heart failure on April 3 at his Santa Monica home.

Jarre was a history buff who was entranced by the Civil War since childhood, when he'd received toy soldiers for Christmas. His research on a black regiment led him to write the 1989 movie "Glory," which won three Academy Awards, including one for actor Denzel Washington.

His 1993 "Tombstone," about the shootout at the OK Corral, got mixed reviews but was a hit.

Jarre also co-wrote "Rambo: First Blood Part II," "The Devil's Own" and "The Mummy."

He was the adopted son of Oscar-winning composer Maurice Jarre.

(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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