FILM NOIR
Welcome to your one stop resource for everything Film Noir.
Step into the shadows and explore the captivating world of film noir. Our site celebrates the classic films and iconic stars of this iconic genre, where danger lurks around every corner and nothing is quite as it seems.
WHAT IS FILM NOIR?
Film Noir is a cinematic genre that originated in the 1940s and 1950s, characterized by its dark and shadowy cinematography, complex narratives, and morally ambiguous characters.
These movies often feature hard-boiled detectives, femme fatales, and underworld criminals in stories of murder, betrayal, and deception.
FEMME FATALES
Femme fatales are known for their mysterious and enigmatic nature, as well as their ability to control and manipulate men through their charm and seduction.
FILM NOIR LIGHTING
Film noir lighting is characterized by a stark contrast between bright and dark areas, achieved through the use of harsh, directional lighting and deep shadows.
It often features low-key lighting, where the majority of the frame is in shadow, and high contrast lighting, where a single area of the frame is brightly illuminated.
THE BEST FILM NOIRS
Click the below movie postersfor an in-depth look at these iconic movies.
FEMME FATALES
The term “femme fatale” comes from French, meaning “fatal woman,” and has become a popular and enduring archetype in popular culture. Femme fatales are known for their mysterious and enigmatic nature, as well as their ability to control and manipulate men through their charm and seduction. They often have a hidden agenda and are not to be trusted, making them a staple of film noir and other genres that explore themes of crime, deception, and betrayal.
ESSENTIAL BOOKS
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A BRIEF HISTORY OF FILM NOIR
1941
The Maltese Falcon releases to public and critical acclaim. The suspenseful thriller marks the beginning of what would later be known as Film Noir.
1944
Double Indemnity is a milestone release nominated for seven Academy Awards. It sets the standard for Classic Film Noir with outstanding lighting, dialogue and direction.
1946
The Big Sleep is an iconic Film Noir headlined by the incredible chemistry between Bogart and Bacall and sharp witty dialogue.
1949
The Third Man is a British Film Noir set in Europe. It employs extensive use of the “Dutch Angle” camera technique.
1950
Sunset Boulevard is a black comedy film noir. It’s the highest rated Film Noir on IMDB and was nominated for eleven Academy Awards.
1958
Touch of Evil marks the end of the classic Film Noir period according to many critics.