Film Noir (Concept)

Film Noir

CONCEPT

Literally meaning "black film," film noir is a term used primarily to describe stylish Hollywood crime dramas. This unique style of storytelling and cinematography is often incorporated into video games.

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Overview

Max Payne is an example of this concept.

Developed in the 1930's and 1940's, the term "film noir" was used to describe some of Hollywood's darker, edgier and more sinister crime dramas. Film noir normally evokes a feeling of hopelessness, that a happy ending would never be in the works. They are set in a world that reeks of night, of shadows, of alleys and always involves some form of crime or vice. The main character of a film noir (usually a chainsmoking male detective or criminal) is constantly faced with moral decisions on what is right and what is wrong. He often confronts a "Femme Fatal" (a woman who would just as soon kill you as love you) and attempts a relationship that lasts only too briefly.

Film noir elements featured prominently in mystery-themed adventure and visual novel games, such as Portopia, Deja Vu, and Snatcher (Game). Recently, due to the growing focus of story and cinematicsin games, several noir-inspired games have emerged in other genres. Final Fantasy VII

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