The Essence of Film Noir: The Style and Themes of Cinema's Dark Genre

American classic films noir, from the 1940s to the 1950s, share thematic aspects, stylistic qualities, and cultural contexts. They concern politics, con artists, and the puritanical religious roots of America, and are examples of a unique American genre. The films' psychological depth is revealed through complex narratives, with select directors generating visual poetry. This book discusses the genre's thematic aspects, cultural contexts, and stylistic qualities, and provides in-depth analysis of the fiction alongside the film version.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2022
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

American classic films noir,spanning from 1941's The Maltese Falcon to 1950's Sunset Boulevard, and the neo-noir films produced since the 1970s, exhibit several thematic elements, stylistic characteristics, and cultural contexts. Their exploration of politics, portrayal of con artists, and the influence of America's puritanical religious heritage on their characters exemplify the distinctiveness of this genre, even when the directors are German emigres with artistic roots in European Expressionism.

The psychological depth of these films is conveyed through intricate narratives, with select directors creating visual poetry as they delve into themes of sex, violence, and betrayal. Some films are based on popular novels inspired by true crime cases, offering a unique approach to film noir scholarship. This book delves into the genre's thematic aspects, cultural contexts, and stylistic qualities, providing in-depth analysis of the fiction alongside the film version, resulting in a comprehensive and thorough understanding of the genre.

Weight: 194g
Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476684192