Oscar-winning writer and film director Curtis Hanson has died at his home in Hollywood at the age of 71.

Police said that he died of natural causes. A report said that he had retired in recent years due to Alzheimer's.

Hanson won an Oscar in 1998 for best adapted screenplay for LA Confidential. His directing credits included The Hand That Rocks the Cradle and Wonder Boys.

He also directed Detroit hip-hop movie 8 Mile starring Eminem, who led the tributes.

The rapper said in a statement "Curtis Hanson believed in me and our crazy idea to make a rap battle movie set in Detroit. He basically made me into an actor for 8 Mile. I'm lucky I got to know him."

LA Confidential actor Russell Crowe wrote on Twitter, "Thank you for believing in me & standing your ground. In reality you made my job a career. Love & respect my friend."

By Prakriti Neogi