FNF prez Eddie Muller responds to film noir fan questions fielded by the Foundation's Director of Communications Anne Hockens. In this episode, we discuss, A WOMAN’S FACE, DECEPTION, CRY VENGEANCE, proto-noirs, the prevalence of the amnesia trope in film noir, and more. We wind with a discussion of film noir posters. Sorry folks, no cats this week.
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When you do Grand Lake intro and outro shoots, what kind of crew do you have or is it self-inflicted? Jay and Connie, Ann Arbor
I have heard you mention several times on your show that were plans to make a film version of Dashiell Hammett's book RED HARVEST. But you also added that this film was never made for various reasons. Does a screenplay of that film exist and can it be purchased? Loren, Chicago
Can you think of an actor/actress with a noir performance that surprised you given the films or TV you had seen them in before? Ryan from Rhode Island
It seems that many classic noir actors and actresses were able to parlay their fame into popular TV series in the 1950s and '60's. Do either of you have a favorite TV show in that regard? Joe, Redondo Beach CA
Before film noir became a thing in the 1940s, there were other films that had strong noir elements, either in style or content or both. What are some of the best and/or most influential proto-noirs? Kathleen from Chicago
I just recently saw A WOMAN'S FACE. I thought it was excellent and Ms. Crawford was superb in the role of Anna Holm. Eddie, would you consider it a film noir and if so, would you consider showing it on NOIR ALLEY? Richard, New York
I just watched DECEPTION (1946) for the first time. What an amazing film with the main performances by Bette Davis, Paul Henreid, but especially from Claude Rains. I wanted to know your thoughts on the film, but especially the ending. For me, it was a total letdown. Marty, Fond du Lac, WI
What are your favorite noir movies that use amnesia as a major plot device? Why did it become so popular? Ciao, Andy
After reading Sharon Knolle's article "Hard Luck Dogs: How Animals Reveal The Tender Heart of Noir" in Noir City issue 17. One of my favorite dog cameos is a dachshund that wanders into a shot and appears to be begging the camera operator for a snack in CRY VENGEANCE. I was wondering if you might have some insights or thoughts on this fun noir film. Any info would be greatly appreciated. James in Atlanta
Film noir movie posters are great to look at. All the ones I’ve come across seem to have pulp influences. What started that? Was it pulp paperbacks or magazines? We’re all noir movie posters of the time (40’s and 50’s) generally the same in this regard or were there any more subtle styles? Eddie: I remember you mentioning that you purchased a bunch of old movie posters. Which turned out to be your favorite? Steve in Exeter New Hampshire
