Origins Of Film Noir

Film Noir originated in the 1930's and continued to b a popular film style until the late 1960's. The term 'Film Noir' literally translating into black film indicates the sort of themes that are common in the films. A general dark air about it, with low key lighting and sinister locations and atmospheres. There are many stereotypical aspects to Film Noir which you expect to see, venetian blinds, cigar smoke and mirrors for example, these elements often crop up in the Film Noir genre. The camera work used is also very particular with strange dramatic angles and close ups creating the suspense and intensity within the films.

Even the story-lines tend to have a clear structure with an expected narrative, the main character finding himself in an odd situation in which he has to go against all the odds to come out on top but not always succeeding in his plans. More often than not in the middle of all the chaos there is a woman who is the source of temptation of the main male and it is she who has caused the problem. They were portrayed as independent women acting out against something commonly some sort of male dominance in their life, a partner, father of brother that they wish to break free from.  The stories were often very complicated with twists and surprises throughout, making it hard for the equilibrium to be restored so it was common for there to be a new one made.
The introduction of Neo Noir is a cling on from the original genre it recognizes the basic themes of Film Noir but set in modern times with the addition of modern elements and themes as well.