What narrative style does film noir typically employ?

Film noir is characterized by its complex narrative structures, often featuring morally ambiguous characters and intricate plots. This narrative complexity allows for the exploration of themes such as existentialism, fatalism, and often a critique of traditional masculinity. In many film noir stories, the male protagonists struggle with their identities and respond to societal expectations in ways that highlight a more profound crisis of masculinity. The discrepancies between their aspirations and the harsh realities they face often lead them into a downward spiral, emphasizing the darker aspects of human nature and societal flaws.

This complexity is intentional and serves to engage the audience in a web of intrigue and ethical dilemmas, which is a hallmark of the genre. Unlike straightforward narratives that present a clear beginning, middle, and end, film noir invites viewers to grapple with ambiguity and moral uncertainty, enhancing the depth of character and thematic exploration.