White Jazz

While not technically directed by Joe Carnahan, "White Jazz" absolutely earns its place on a list celebrating the spirit and style of the director, as it's based on the quintessential pulp novel by James Ellroy, a clear influence on Carnahan's own gritty crime films. The film, though never brought to fruition, existed as a hotly anticipated project with Carnahan at the helm, promising a lurid, violent, and morally ambiguous dive into 1950s Los Angeles, much like the director's other works. The pre-production materials, concept art, and Carnahan's own passionate descriptions of his vision showcased a clear understanding of the source material and a commitment to translating Ellroy's signature brand of hard-boiled cynicism to the screen, making its unrealized potential a significant entry in any consideration of Carnahan's oeuvre. The "White Jazz" project perfectly encapsulates Carnahan's penchant for morally complex protagonists operating in a corrupt system, his love for stylized violence, and his ability to create a palpable sense of tension and paranoia. The storyline, centered on a corrupt LAPD officer caught in a web of conspiracy and murder, screams Carnahan. Imagine his treatment of Vic Mackey in "The Shield" transplanted to the post-war era, amplified by Ellroy's bleak worldview and Carnahan's signature visual flair. Even in its unmade form, "White Jazz" remains a testament to Carnahan's artistic sensibilities, demonstrating his affinity for challenging narratives and his dedication to exploring the dark underbelly of American culture.