This new edition of Film Noir: The Encyclopedia expands several of the movie descriptions, contains more photos, and in general updates the genre. The last update was in 1993 so this new, Fourth Edition, version should be the reference book of record when it comes to noir. Overlook Press should be commended on putting out such a quality product. If you’re interested in this genre, this book is a must-buy. GRADE: A
In answer to Patti Abbott’s question about what painting represents your taste in reading (at http://pattinase.blogspot.com/), the Jack Vettriano painting above captures my noirish obsessions.
I saw Fallen Angel while in Paris. Be interested to see what they thought of it.
I last saw FALLEN ANGEL about 10 years ago, Patti. I should watch it again soon. Terrific film! There’s an extensive write-up on FALLEN ANGEL in this new edition of FILM NOIR.
George, I’ll definitely check this one out. You might want to look up a wonderful book by Eddie Muller called DARK CITY. The thing is fascinating.
My favorite noir film is probably Kubrick’s THE KILLING.
I have DARK CITY on my Read Real Soon stack, Drongo. After reading your comments, I’ll move it closer to the top. There are plenty of great noir films to choose from, but I suppose my favorite is BODY HEAT. Although THE KILLING is right up there.
When they update books like this, they usually delete material as well as add it. Is that the case here? Also, I’m not sure I understand the need for, a book to “update the genre”. The genre hasn’t changed, why does it need to be updated? Has the definition of “noir” changed?
Not all the changes in the Fourth Edition are positive, Rick. For some inexplicable reason, the authors have deleted MINISTRY OF FEAR (one of my favorite noir films). They’ve added other films that were left out of the 1993 edition. Many of the articles are expanded. And, best of all, there are about a 100 new photos added.
I can see the noir interest in that painting, George, but what about the non-fiction? The SF-F? Your reading interests are more broad than this image conveys.
You’re missing the antenni hidden in the hair of the two characters in the painting, Rick. Clearly, they’re aliens from Andromeda which captures my SF reading interests, too. As for the non-fiction…you can’t have everything.
I don’t love BODY HEAT, George, but I do like THE KILLING. One of my favorites (of any genre) is THE THIRD MAN. We didn’t get into the sewers but I did love going to the Prater and ride the giant ferris wheel when we were in Vienna.
I love THE THIRD MAN and THE KILLING, too, Jeff. When I first saw BODY HEAT, I was completely captivated by Kathleen Turner.
Why doesn’t that surprise me, George?
I’m always a sucker for a pretty face, Patti.
The original FILM NOIR ENCYCLOPEDIA is one of the most-read books on my shelf.
You’ll love this new edition of the FILM NOIR ENCYCLOPEDIA, Dan. I love all the new photos!