Film Noir

Film Noir is a cinematic term used to describe stylish Hollywood crime dramas, but modern Noir films can show the same characteristics and themes.

Themes - these are usually based around moral ambiguity and sexual motivation in Hollywood crime dramas. They are often known for their pessimistic attitude, and showing a world that is inherently corrupt.

Visual Techniques - there tends to be the use of low-key lighting which produces stark light/dark contrast and defined shadow patterns. Venetian blind shadows on faces and walls has become an iconic visual motif for the genre, also shadows could cover actors faces partially or fully.

Narrative - the narratives tend to be convoluted, with flashbacks and flash-forwards. Voice-over narration is also common and the storylines are focused on crime, heists/cons, false suspicion, double-crosses and accusations.

Characters - the characters tend to be morally flawed, misunderstood, full of existential angst. There are also stock characters such as hard-boiled detectives, femme fatales, corrupt police and jealous husbands. The femme fatale is noted for her changeability and treachery, she is portrayed as empowered, however rarely 'survives' at the end of the film.