Film Noir

What is Film Noir?

Film noir is a term used to describe stylish Hollywood crime dramas that emphasize cynical attitudes and sexual motivations. The film noir period is generally regarded between the early 1940s and the late 1950s. It is associated with a low-key black-and-white visual style.

Research of Film Noir movies.

1. LA Confidential (1993)



2. Brick (2005)



3. Black Dahlia (2006)



4. Double Indemnity (1944)

I will go into an in depth analysis of these movies, showing the conventions of 'Film Noir' that is shown within each one, but also the character profiles that are brought to light. The main characters that you will see in each of these movies are:

The main character:

This character is male, usually some sort of detective, he isn't quite a hero as the character seems to have his own ethics and morality which an audience may question. He is seen as a very negative character, but also very gullible, as if he wants to become a hero - He will believe the dishonest ways of the characters around him (mainly the femme fatale), which leads him into dangerous situations where either his life is on the line, or he himself is being accused of certain crimes. He is usually wearing suits and ties, sometimes wearing an overcoat. most of the time they wear a hat which is suited to the time period.

The femme fatale:

This character is usually a corrupt female, who in most movies manipulates the main male character to do as she wishes using her feminine charm (sexually persuasive). They are usually two faced, and will do anything to get their own way. Most of the time the main character will fall in love with the femme fatale, however the audience is usually left unsure as to whether she feels the same way about him, in the end the detective is usually double crossed by the woman as he realises she has used him for a professional means, as well as using him emotionally. Some well known femme fatale include Rita Hayworth and Barbara Stanwyck. They are always very sexually attractive women (who use that fact for their own personal benefit), they wear white to try and portray innocence, however always wear red lipstick to show their hidden promiscuity.