Analysis of “Notes on Film Noir” by Paul Schrader

Following World War II, cinema began to shift its tone from cheery and shallow to gloomy and deep. The dark undertones of American theatre following the war reflected a broader trend referred to as film noir. Recognizing that the very definition of film noir is a cause for dispute, Paul Schrader attempts to define the basic elements of this pronounced genre in the article “Notes on Film Noir.” In his treatment, Schrader defines the elements of film noir as well as the cultural origins and impact of this distinct genre.

In his essay, Schrader defines the characteristics of the film noir genre. However, it can hardly be missed that the film noir genre is largely defined in contrast to what it is not. Prior to 1945, cinema was purposely cheerful in order to elevate the mood of the public and gloss over depressing events, such as the Great Depression. Yet, internationally, critics noticed that following World War II, movies became steeped in cynical, pessimistic, and dark themes. Schrader remarks that post-war disillusionment, the emergence of realism, and the influence of German themes were among the cultural factors that contributed to this new expression.

Schrader identifies several stylistic elements that distinguish film noir. First, the setting and actors are given equal lighting emphasis while one actor is characteristically hidden in the shadow. The infamous shadow character often contributes to the heavy elements of the film. Further, the tension in the composition is emphasized instead of physical action. Corresponding with these styles, the themes of the film noir genre are characteristically gritty. As Schrader establishes, the wartime phase of the genre included themes centered on a private eye or lone wolf character, the post-war phase focused on crime and political corruption, and the final phase focused more broadly on societal issues and deep psychological matters.

A positive impact of the period is that it was a time where notable works were produced. Schrader assesses that the film noir period was atypically creative and attracted high levels of artistry to the film industry. Further, a film such as Out of the Past, which focuses on the tail of an African American widow, gave exposure to elements of society that were often shunned from the screen. However, a negative element of the genre was that it served as an outlet for negative elements of society. The very act of focusing on lone-wolf characters could be viewed as a celebration of anti-social behaviors.

Yet, despite its controversy, film noir has made an immense contribution to film. Following World War II, the superficial aspects of film remained challenged by realism. Further, film noir was the beginning of the promotion of artistic expression through film. Today’s film directors emulate many stylistic decisions made by early directors. Thus, while the genre might have initially been considered an aberration to American film, it emerged as a foundational influence in cinema.

Bibliography

Schrader, Paul. “Notes on Film Noir.” Film Comment 8.1 (1972): 1-13.