Film Noir Mood-Board

I have created a visual Mood-Board of typical codes and conventions present in the Film Noir genre. By researching and finding screen shots and visual examples of these conventions, i feel this will help me fully understand the stylistic/artistic way these things are used and how they transform onto film to create visually stunning imagery.

 

As you can see, i have included one of the most important codes of any Film Noir movie; Low Key Lighting. The sharp contrast of white and black is a great visual and artistic effect used in Noir to give the imagery that famous trademark style of glamour and mystery. I have also included the dutch angle or tilt which i think is a very important convention of Noir, creating unequal balance in the frame making the whole experience of watching uncomfortable and disorientating for the viewer. The photo of the woman with the gun represents the new found power that women have over men which is a very common trate of many Noir films. The props used are very important in promoting the Noir brand, i.e. Fedora hat, Mack Coat, Guns, Weapons, Cigarettes etc. Physical violence and fights are common in Noir films which are generally action packed Thrillers. Sexual frustration and Romance are also a key theme present near to all films of this genre. I have included the notorious, 'Femme Fatale' and 'Anti-Hero' that are key characters in Noir films who have a stereotypical look and characteristics, i.e. The Anti-Hero's scruffy mode of dress and The females Seductive and manipulative nature. Venetian blinds are another style used to create thick striped shadows and distinguish shady characters or goings on. Reflections through objects such as broken mirrors, water reflections or windows are a common artisticv effect, distorting and obscurring the face of a character, adding to the air of mystery and suggesting a disfunctional personality. The rain, smoke and mist seen in  the urban settings and streets where Noir films are primarily shot again adds to the mystery and fantical side of the genre.