Research - Research Of Film Noir As A Whole And Stereotypical Characters

The French name of film Noir in English is simply "black film" hence the colour of the films. (German Expressionist cinematography)  They became popular around the 1940 to the 1950s and where produced in mainly America when European directors and producers moved over to America from countries such as germane to get away from the war situation.

The films revolve around extravagant Hollywood styled crime dramas of which most revolve around down town New-York. The Main character is predominately a "goody" who is a private detective trying to work out who and why some one is killed. He usualy holsters a gun, however not to gain power, just for protection. he is dressed formally, in suite, tie, black trousers and black shoes. He also talks very formally and gets to the point using clear language.

Other conventional characters of film Noir include;

The Femme fatale (French for "deadly woman") - A mysterious and seductive woman who is usually early on shown as being part of the "bad guys" side, however usually wants revenge on him for doing something to her or a loved one so uses the good guy to get her desire. Within Film Noir she usually gets the good guy in and out of trouble. Usually by reasoning with the "bad guy". She is dressed seductively in fashionable clothing for the era. Usually wearing seductive make up such as red lips and having perfect hair.

Bad guy (villain) - Very smartly dressed usually showing power by showing off jewellery. Usually is fairly big built and lazy, dressed in a suite, tie , shirt and black shiny shoes. Has authorative power over many of his men do to do his small dirty jobs such as tracking down owed money. Due to having many at his finger tips he can also exert his power, of which is usually done on the good guy.

Henchmen - Works for the "bad guy", usually doing his small dirty jobs. Generally dressed similarly to the man in power, however is usually thin and equipped with a gun to gain authority. Usually also has a strong accent, which is a wide comparison compared to his formal appearance. The facial expression is also usually a emotionless snarl showing little emotion.