Film Noir

Mr. R. A. Stone

at 4:46 pm

Spicer’s vivid, illuminating book packs a massive overview of film noir into its 250 pages. As adept with the theoretical conundrums as he is with plot analysis and evocative descriptions of key scenes and players, Spicer manages a much-needed examination of classic noir (40-59) and neo-noir (that goes right up to Memento), while stopping off for well-considered studies of such classics as Vertigo and Touch of Evil. He’s not afraid of a bit of controversy either, which makes for a gripping read. All you ever wanted to know…and more.
Rating: 5 / 5

Mr. E. D. Robson

at 6:29 pm

A terrific overview of noir – accessible, concise, packed with information and sharp analysis. Unlike many noir critics, Spicer doesn’t feel the need to praise classical Hollywood cinema by bashing more recent films or get caught up in the overplayed and uninteresting auteur vs genre argument. Instead he is even-handed and focuses on touring the reader around as many critical viewpoints of noir as possible, adding his own commentary along the way. He also covers the under-appreciated area of British noir. A great investment for students or anybody with an interest in becoming better informed about cinema.
Rating: 5 / 5