Shadows And Morality: 5 Best Film Noir Movies Every Cinephile Must Watch
The classic era of Hollywood came to an end with the advent of a new cinematic movement post-war in America. It was the film noir that was characterised by a unique set of elements like cynical heroes, stark lighting effects, frequent use of flashbacks, and intricate plots. In addition, there was an underlying existentialist philosophy. Read more to learn about the unique characteristics of this genre along with a recommendation of best film noir movies every cinephile must watch.
Focusing more on the crime and thriller spectrum, the film noir left an essential mark on the history of cinema. It not only managed to attract audiences with its realism but even gave some of the most iconic characters and movies ever.
Style of Film Noir
Centrally, the filmmakers focused on using distinct visual elements on screen, specifically a dramatic interplay of shadows and highlights. It helped create an atmosphere of mystery and tension.
In terms of camera angles, oblique angles, tilted camera shots, and unconventional framing intensify the thrill in the scenes. It carefully depicts the moral uncertainty that fills these tales of deception and betrayal.
The tales of deception and betrayal in film noir have a sharp film style. Its dialogues are sharp and filled with witty banter. Some of the prominent writers of the era were Raymond Chandler, Dashiell Hammett, and James M. Cain. They were known for writing gripping tales of good and evil.
Film noir was at its peak beginning from the 1940s and 1950s. The genre has left an unmissable mark on contemporary cinema. Several neo-noir films, like “Chinatown,” “L.A. Confidential,” and “Sin City,” pay tribute to that cinematic style. Also, they take over the task of conveying its thematic elements using its features and blending them with modernity.
The genre took the audience into a dark, morally ambiguous world. Unlike the scenic backgrounds and ideal characters, these films have flawed characters. Also, there are layered storylines that bring novelty to the audience. If you want to dive into the world of film noir, here we have listed some classic and influential film noir movies that you can watch.
5 Best Film Noir Movies Every Cinephile Must Watch:
1. The Maltese Falcon (1941)
One of the most thrilling and gripping noirs is The Maltese Falcon. It is based on the plot of a private detective. He gets involved in a particular case while searching for an expensive but mysterious statuette.
In addition, the detective collaborates with three criminals and a liar. John Huston directs the film. It features Humphrey Bogart as private detective Sam Spade. Sharp dialogue and moral ambiguity were used, which was one of the initial films to set the tone for the genre.
2. Double Indemnity (1944)
Several killings occur every day. However, the ones where the guilt belongs to the victim’s family itself are undoubtedly more interesting. One such iconic noir movie is, Double Indemnity, explores this subject.
Its plot follows Walter Neff, an insurance agent. Phyllis Dietrichson seduces him. She is a married woman who wants to kill her husband for his insurance. But the tables turn when Barton Keyes, an investigator, begins to suspect it.
Double Factory is directed by Billy Wilder. The iconic noir stars Fred MacMurray as an insurance salesman. Overall, the twisting plot and stylish cinematography are all elements of an ideal noir.
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3. The Big Sleep (1946)
The Big Sleep is your pick if you are looking for an intense and complex noir. It’s based on the 1939 novel of the same name by Raymond Chandler.
It features Humphrey Bogart as private eye Philip Marlowe tackling the complex plot that involves a wealthy family’s sordid secrets. However, a death changes the scene. The gripping storytelling and snappy dialogue exemplify the genre’s complexities.
4. Out of the Past (1947)
Out of the Past, with a tight and intelligent plot, is undoubtedly one of the most exciting crime movies ever seen. Unlike crime movies that swing between the present and future, this noir takes you back, as its name suggests.
It has all the essential noir characteristics and follows the themes of fate, rotten luck, and flawed characters. Out of the Past was directed by Jacques Tourneur. It stars Robert Mitchum as a former private eye. He has to return to a world of deceit and betrayal led by a femme fatale from his past.
Justifying its name and genre, there is a use of flashbacks and atmospheric cinematography, taking the audience to the past.
5. Kiss Me Deadly (1955)
The title of this film itself reveals that you must get ready to witness a sultry and suspenseful tale. It’s directed by Robert Aldrich and features Ralph Meeker as a brutal private investigator. He finds himself in a deadly pursuit of a mysterious lockbox. Its uncompromising attitude and stylised violence intensify the genre’s gritty nature.
Final Words
Film noir presented a new genre of films that reflected the mood and vibe of post-war America away from the classics. The stylish cinematography, morally ambiguous characters, and convoluted plots of noirs have left a significant mark on the cinematic landscape. As a result, we still get to see the influence of the film noir genre on contemporary cinema.
Comment below your favourite film noir movies of all time.
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