Out of the Darkness: Defining the Three Eras of Film Noir

Abstract

This thesis explores the role of Film Noir in American Cinema. It specifically defines Film Noiras a genre and explores its evolution and effect on American Cinema. This definition will beproved utilizing elements of film theory. Specific film examples will be indicated as milestonesand existing research by film historians and theorists will support the definitions presented here.Based on these ideas, this thesis will propose a new definition of Film Noir—consisting of threeeras—asa credible anddefinable genreof American Cinema.