Film noir is a cinematic term used to describe stylish Hollywood crime dramas, particularly those that emphasize cynical attitudes and sexual motivations. It was originated in the early 1940’s. The genre was mainly influenced by German Expressionism, which including theatre, photography and painting. It was first introduced to the United States during the depression period.

Low and high angle shotsExtreme close-upsReflections and faces obscured through

objectsSmokeTilted and irregularly framed shotsSet in dark/rainy streetsLow key lightingBlack and whiteUse of venetian blinds

Femme fatalePrivate EyeDetectivesHenchmen/ThugsGangstersPoliceCorrupt government