Matthew ShallueMOVIE: What is a Film Noir?
Film Noirs were mostly made in Hollywood during the 1940's and 1950s and usually consist of cynical or dark themes.
Often the story of Noir films revolve around a troubled hero, who cannot forget the mistakes he has made in his past. This all usually takes place in a dark alley, or a dimly lit Private Eye's office. And no doubt, our hero of the story is confronted with an inevitable death, but finds the redemption he sought for his mistakes in his demise.
They are usually filmed in black and white, with a strong use of shadows and strange camera angles to show the inner struggles the characters are having with themselves. The Noir influence can be found in many movies around the world; most notably those from Japan and Europe. A fine example of the Noir genre would be Frank Miller's Sin City.
I hope this helps, Cassandra.
Often the story of Noir films revolve around a troubled hero, who cannot forget the mistakes he has made in his past. This all usually takes place in a dark alley, or a dimly lit Private Eye's office. And no doubt, our hero of the story is confronted with an inevitable death, but finds the redemption he sought for his mistakes in his demise.
They are usually filmed in black and white, with a strong use of shadows and strange camera angles to show the inner struggles the characters are having with themselves. The Noir influence can be found in many movies around the world; most notably those from Japan and Europe. A fine example of the Noir genre would be Frank Miller's Sin City.
I hope this helps, Cassandra.
Film & TV on DVD
i did a post on Film Noirs a while back that may interest you.
Click the link HERe if you would like to read "36 Great Film Noirs"