Key Conventions of Film Noir

Key Conventions of Film Noir

1. Extreme Close Ups

   • Often used to amplify the emotion they express and to show tension building

2. Black And White

   • This allows a 'moody', atmospheric feel to the film

3. Non Linear Narrative

   • The narrative moves forward and back in time

4. Interesting Camera Angles

   • Low Angles
   • High Angles
   • Canted Angles

5. Mise En scene is damp and dull

   • Rain is often used to achieve this, it creates a dystonpian atmosphere

6. Reflections In Objects In Frame

   • Often reflected in things like vases, helps to created a distorted atmosphere

7. Often Sound Is Quite

   • A silent scene can create a huge amount of tension to the viewer, hence why silence is used. Tension building

8. Heavy Shadows

   • Also helps to achieve a moody atmosphere

9. Deep Depth Of Field

   • Causes the most important person to be in main focus, and draws the attention to them

10. Dull Lighting

    • Again also adds to the atmosphere of the film and also assists in tension building