Exploring Film Noir with Justin Chang

This week The Film Library jumps into the shadowy world of film noir. Your hosts Alonso Duralde and Daniel Thompson, are joined by the Pulitzer Prize-winning film critic and chair of the National Society of Film Critics, Justin Chang. Together they unravel the intricate layers of this timeless genre.

From the raw, hard-boiled classics like "DOA" and "Detour" to the evocative international contributions seen in films like "Breathless" and "Burning," film noir is more than just a genre—it's a mood and a style that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Justin explores its roots in the post-war era, its themes of cynicism and despair, and its visual beauty, characterized by stark contrasts and gritty storytelling. He also discusses how films like Robert Altman's "The Long Goodbye" and Christopher Nolan's "Memento" have evolved the traditional noir template, creating unique and often mind-bending experiences. 

The group takes a look at the lasting impact of noir in contemporary cinema, examining how despair and unease from today's societal challenges, such as late-stage capitalism and the pandemic, might inspire future noir narratives. 

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Producer: Brandon Gray

Executive Producer: Christian Pierce

Graphic Design: Aleksandra Jelic

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Produced by Bramble Jam Podcast

Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

03:34 Noir films explore American society's dynamics.

07:07 Film noir’s origins, influences, enduring legacy.

14:00 Analysis of neo-noir and mystery film.

19:16 Noir represents isolation

22:37 Altman's "The Long Goodbye" and "Under the Silver Lake" age well, capturing specific moods.

25:55 Reflective films offer escapism from current turmoil.

31:24 Influential international films paying homage to noir.