Sin City is a hybrid as it mixes two classic genres together to create a new, post-modern text. It is a combination of Film Noir conventions and Comic Book conventions.
Features typical to Film Noir include: use of voice overs; use of low key lighting; certain character roles and a non-linear narrative structure. The text proves typical of the Noir genre as it a voice over after John Hartigan has just been shot. The voice over allows the audience to know of his inner thoughts and feelings, in this instance, he is expressing the pain he is in and is trying to motivate himself to carry on and complete the mission.
A feature which shows that the film is a hybrid of Film Noir and Comic Book is the use of the trench coat. The trench coat is worn by Marv when he goes to complete a mission. This is true of the Film Noir genre as the coat gives a high end, business-like appearance of men from the 1940's. However, it is also true to the Comic Book genre as the trench coat is used to represent the stereotypical cape worn by a superhero. As Marv walks and runs through the city, the coat flaps in the wind causing it to look like cape. Also, to maintain the hero-like attitudes, Marv removes the cape every time he hurts or kills something and puts it back on when his actions have benefited his mission. This is done so not to taint the character of the hero.
Also, the film follows typical character roles from the Film Noir genre. A femme fatale uses their sexuality to gain power and then is often killed due to their own actions. This is shown through the representation of Cecile. Cecile is first shown as the camera lingers on a full length shot of her naked body. This shows features of Mulvey's Male Gaze as she is objectified and sexualised. Later in the film, she tries to take control of the mission by surrendering Marv's weapon to the police officers, however they are corrupt cops (also typical of the Film Noir genre). By doing this, she gets herself killed. This shows the women of the film as being naive and in need of a man.
Proof read Chloe, few errors in the John Hartigan voice over section.
ReplyDeleteYou have identified the voice over point but have not explained or justified its Noir-ness. The voice over links to the cynical protagonist.Its a way of showing their attitude and mind set to the audience. This should also link to Noir's cold war influence.
Trench coat isnt high end, quite the opposite. It is a typical uniform of a private eye/detective common in 40's Noir. The cape and its removal is well explain. You could give a scene example.
Well done for bringing in theory to help answer the question , this is high grade content. Is Cecile a femme fatale? or is she a comic book side kick character?
Good first attempt Chloe. take note of areas for development, a second draft in a additional post will help your understanding.