This course examines the concept of “Film Noir” in its cultural context using a body of films (literature, photography, art, music) to analyze predominant themes and the history of the concept in film scholarship. Directors, producers and writers of Noir; the industrial process by which these films were produced, marketed and exhibited; and a variety of cultural/historical issues (e.g. race, gender, class, urban development, national morale) will be examined. The first part of the class will focus on “Classic” Noir (1940-60), while the second will concentrate on the evolution of Noir, scrutinizing 1960-contemporary films that have appropriated Film Noir characteristics, paying particular attention to international examples. Note: Open to FMA majors and non-majors.