To what extent can Le Samourai be considered as a film noir
To what extent can Le Samourai be considered as a film noir? Film noir is a style that evolved in the 1940s but became most prominent in France during the post-war period. Film noir is not considered to be a genre but a mood, a style that includes many characteristics. ... In analysing Le Samourai, it is necessary to think about the ways in which the film follows this tradition whilst at the same discuss how certain elements of the film can be also regarded as refuting the style of film noir. One of the principal techniques which Melville uses that can be regarded as respecting the film noir mood is the basic colour scheme that he employs that consequently creates a ominous ambience. ... This gloomy, dark atmosphere is established from the very start of the film where we can see a dark room with Jeff lying on his bed smoking a cigarette (although he is not immediately noticed), the only difference in colour being this cigarette smoke. La Samourai is often considered to be a ‘black and white film in colour’ , a opinion that is attributed to the way in which Melville has obviously photocopied some Franc notes in order to prevent a startling introduction of colour into the scene. This is extremely effective as it sets the tone of the film from beginning. ... However, Rey’s apartment provides us with an ultimate contrast to that of Jeff’s and other locations in the film. Instead of being dull, this apartment is an ultra modern flat (consequently going against film noir), signifying ‘wealth and decadence’ , it is not plain but colourful. ... In continuing the idea of his almost pre-determined fate, being subject to fatalism, an element that is also regarded as a position that character in typical film noir films also find themselves in.