film noir conventions
DESCRIPTION
TRANSCRIPT
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?