Read Inside Secrets of Kim Basinger’s Old Hollywood L.A. Confidential Home from its Listing Agent and Previous Owner!
Movie Homes In L.A.: The Residence of Lynn Bracken in L.A. Confidential
"L.A. Confidential," directed by Curtis Hanson, is a noir crime film set in 1950s Los Angeles, following the intertwined lives of three policemen with distinct motivations. Together, they uncover a web of corruption tied to an unsolved coffee shop murder.
The film, celebrated for its intricate plot, complex characters, and depiction of systemic corruption, is based on real events that lend it an air of authenticity and gravitas, making it an iconic movie in L.A.'s rich cinematic history.
Among the many iconic L.A. movies, "L.A. Confidential" stands out not just for its gripping storyline but also for its evocative settings. One such setting is the residence of Lynn Bracken, played by Kim Basinger, whose character's home becomes a central location in the film. This Spanish Colonial masterpiece, located in Hancock Park, perfectly encapsulates the Old-World charm reminiscent of the late 1940s.
A Glimpse into the Home's History
The home was built in 1932 by noted architect, film producer, and actor Jack Donovan and was initially known as the John C. Leavitt home. For 67 years, this quintessential Hancock Park home remained in the loving care of the Stone family, who meticulously preserved its original features. The charming entertainer Donovan, included a guest house and pool—complete with his and her changing rooms.
Patricia Stone using the homes pool, date approximately 1960s.
The home had the rare feel and appeal of a bygone Hollywood era which was perfect for the Old-World Spanish style, popular during the late 1940s, when L.A. Confidential was set. These include an oversized wooden front door, a two-story living room, an ornate fireplace, dramatic curves, arches, arched French doors, courtyards, and patios.
Susanna Nagy: The Listing Agent
Susanna Nagy, a Certified Luxury Realtor in Los Angeles for over 16 years, with a deep appreciation for local Hollywood culture, was honored to be chosen as the listing agent for this incredible home. Nagy has developed an understanding and appreciation for almost every category of architectural style, American Craftsman, Tudor, Colonial Revival, Spanish, Mediterranean and Mid-Century Modern, however, listing this incredible Spanish Colonial home brought an element of celebration as the open house attracted a large part of the Los Angeles community.
“I have sold over 350 homes and I consider myself fortunate to have represented leading actors, athletes, musicians and influencers, however, representing such a wonderful family this iconic and historic home is certainly one of my career highlights.”
Susanna Nagy, certified Luxury Realtor in Los Angeles for over 16 years.
Marketing the "L.A. Confidential House" was no ordinary task; it was an experience likened to a "block party" attended by neighbors, potential buyers, movie buffs, the media, and several generations of the family that had thoughtfully maintained the home.
Susanna fondly recalls the open house event, which was a vibrant gathering celebrating the home's rich history and its role in one of the most famous movie homes in L.A. Her excitement was palpable as she shared the unique charm and historical significance of this property with visitors.
Haunted Stories and more History from the Past
Beyond its cinematic fame, the house carries intriguing tales from the past. Originally built for an opera singer in the late 1920s, the home also harbors ghostly legends. The singer's despondent assistant reportedly hung herself on the main living room balcony (the same iconic balcony seen in scenes with character Lynn Bracken (Kim Basinger) in L.A. Confidential.) Over the years, one of the sons of the Stone family, Guy Stone, and various family members recounted eerie encounters with the young girl's ghost.
“Your great aunt Jean saw the ghost combing her hair in the 1st floor bathroom mirror. But Jean said she could only see the young woman while looking in the mirror using her peripheral vision. Your great-grandmother saw the young ghost late at night while having a drink, and your great-grandfather saw the young girl when on his death-bead in the first-floor bedroom. He wanted to know who the young girl with long black hair was doing in his room. The nurse who was helping him told them that no other nurses fit that description.”
A renter in the mid-90s who worked in the T.V./movie business sublet the home to the film company during the production of "L.A. Confidential." Guy's mother later received a hefty water bill because the film crew had used water to simulate rain in the movie. Though reimbursed, the incident adds another layer to the home's fascinating story.
*Disclaimer: The ghost stories were reported by several family members to Guy Stone, whether he believes it or not is up to discretion and is for entertainment purposes only.
Guy Stone pictured at the Hancock Park home when he lived there during High School with the Stone family.
A Timeless Hollywood Treasure
The residence of Lynn Bracken in "L.A. Confidential" is more than just a filming location; it's a piece of Hollywood history. The home’s rich architectural heritage, combined with its cinematic legacy and ghostly lore, makes it one of the most notable movie homes in L.A. Whether you're a movie buff, a history enthusiast, or an admirer of Spanish Colonial architecture, this house offers a nostalgic journey into the heart of Old Hollywood.
As Susanna Nagy aptly puts it, marketing this iconic L.A. movie home was not just a professional endeavor but a celebration of Los Angeles' storied past and its enduring allure in the world of cinema.
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Read about the cinematic history, never-released haunted stories, and the fascinating architecture of this Old Hollywood home in Hancock Park. Featuring L.A. Luxury Real Estate Agent Susanna Nagy and the previous family who owned it for 67 years, the Stone family.