Film Noir

Film Noir

(1) Character roles (2) Narrative themes

(3) Iconography + mise en scene (4)

Technical conventions

Conventions

Film Noir

(1) Character roles

Conventions

-Cynical Protagonist-Femme Fatale-Corrupt authority figures

-Cynical Protagonist

Hard heated, cynical, selfless, lonely, physically tough.Usually meets a beautiful femme fatale who draws him into a dangerous situation. Is physically or mentally damaged, usually due to a past trauma or experience.

-Femme FataleAn attractive and seductive woman, especially one who will ultimately cause distress to a man who becomes involved with her.Often uses her sexuality to manipulate the protagonist into becoming the fall guy

-Corrupt authority figuresA character within a position of authority and trust. This status is often abused for their own personal gain. This role reflects the mistrust and paranoia narrative theme.

Film Noir

(2) Narrative themes

Conventions

Mistrust and Paranoia.

Bleakness and depression.

Reflecting the effects and consequences of war.

Reflecting the effects of waiting for the cold war.

1950’s Gender politics.

Film Noir

(3) Iconography + mise en scene

Conventions

Typical iconography and Mise en scene

Film Noir mise en scene/iconography•Dark sidewalks•Rain drenched streets•Flashing neon signs•A villainous, corrupt and hostile urban environment•Alchohol/Alchoholics•Cigarettes•Guns•Trench cots•Neon lights

Film Noir

(4) Technical conventions

Conventions

(4) Technical conventions-Low key lighting

(4) Technical conventions-Voice over/narration

(4) Technical conventionsShadows cast by venetian blinds

(4) Technical conventionsNon linear – first person narrative

What noir conventions are present?