A new book Tech-Noir: The Fusion of Science Fiction and Film Noir by Paul Meehan has been published.
The publishers description:
This critical study traces the common origins of film noir and science fiction films, identifying the many instances in which the two have merged to form a distinctive subgenre known as Tech-Noir. From the German Expressionist cinema of the late 1920s to the present-day cyberpunk movement, the book examines more than 100 films in which the common noir elements of crime, mystery, surrealism, and human perversity intersect with the high technology of science fiction. The author also details the hybrid subgenre’s considerable influences on contemporary music, fashion, and culture.
The book has received a favorable review from film writer John Muir.
God, don’t tempt me Tony, don’t tempt me! Paul Meehan’s book looked intriguing even before I read Paul Muir’s linked review (thanks for that). But Muir brings out some further revelations that connect the noir and science fiction genres in the chracter parallels and/or evolutions (i.e. the sheriff in OUTLAND being comparable to Sam Spade or Phillip Marlowe) or in situations like the “locked room” scenario with began with the likes of DANGEROUS CROSSING. Similarly, noirish elements run strong through SOLARIS, TIME COP, 12 MONKEYS, ROBOCOP and STRANGE DAYS.
Interestingly enough, GATTACA is brought in too. I raised the eyebrows of many of my friends by naming the Andre Nichol film as the #1 movie of the 1990′s, edging out films like SATANTANGO, SCHINDLER’S LIST and RED. I would need a completely different forum to defend my position there, but suffice to say there are sure noirish elements there, especially in the film’s second half.
This book does look like a keeper, I’ll have to focus on e bay in the upcoming weeks.
Thanks Sam for adding substantially to my post. But what really knocks me out is your view on Gattaca: I am in complete agreement! This stunning film had me obsessed for months after I saw it in 1997.
An excellent piece on the definitive gangster noir, Tony. I felt sure I left a comment here yesterday, I even remember writing it. I can only assume my connection screwed up again and didn’t process it.
Sorry Allan, your comment on White Heat is now up. Thanks Allan. First comments are moderated and I forgot to check the moderation queue for a couple of days…