http://afc-theliterature.blogspot.com/2007/07/genre-theory-and-film-noir.html This is a useful link as regards to the explanation of Film Noir.
Film Noir:
Film Noir first developed within the years of 1944-1958 (Key period of Noir) and within the Post War which is important for the fact American Society had changed within these years.
This blog is based on the genre of film noir and related to darkness which is stereotypically a covered night setting whereby a heavy use of shadows is used as regards to what we class as a ‘gritty’ genre.
In general the Film industry was demanding a harden grittier film and so an increase in crime and private detectives was produced.
Film Style:
- Low key lighting
- Strong shadows
- Framing devices (suggesting the character is trapped – doorways, windows)
- Night
- City
- Claustrophobia
Narrative:
- Complex
- Heavy use of flashbacks
- Voice overs
However it turns out that strong, independent women classed as the ‘Femme fatale’ was beginning to take centre stage within narratives and therefore a new breed of woman was being produced. Women were becoming a key weapon as regards to a ‘sex item’ which links in with the emergence of the Femme Fatale - Black Widow. This consists of a female spider luring in males, using there seductiveness to their personal advantage and ten killing them off.
This links in with the film: Double Indemnity (Dr Billy Wilder 1944)
- Phyllis Dietrichson – Barbra Stanwyck (Gold digger – wants rid of her husband)
- Walter Neff – Fred Macmurry (Loss adjuster - investigates suspicious claims)
Indemnity is based on Life Insurance whereby a pay out is made for those that fortunately pass away. Double Indemnity however is where you get a doubled amount of money if they die in a certain way, e.g. falling off a train. However you do need consent from an individual and there’s no payout for suicide. The soundtrack begins off with a heavy and deep song which suggests a funeral march and links in with ‘Black noir’ in general. The beginning also starts with the ending story and a flashback which gives the black noir feel. The seductiveness of Phyllis plays a major part within the film as regards the sexual innuendo and the nature of her in general. The fact she is first displayed wearing a towel (‘smashed fender when you are not fully covered’) and applies lipstick in a seductive mirror says a lot for the judgement of watchers. The conversation between her and Walter also shows off large flirting skills and role playing, framing is also displayed as regards to the venetian blinds that gives off suggestion he is trapped.
The Big Combo (1995)
The Narrative consists of a police offers (Leonard Dimond) obssession towards attempting to crush the gang of organised crime (Mr Brown) and win the heart of his lady Susan.
