'Gone Girl' to 'Widows': Best Hollywood modern noir movies
Characterized by fatalism, cynicism, and ambiguity, the genre of modern crime fiction or modern noir is one of the most popular in Hollywood. Such movies usually brilliantly infuse noir with fresh perspectives and modern storytelling techniques. With the below-listed titles, explore the intricate web of crime as these films redefine and elevate the timeless allure of noir in the 21st century.
'Mulholland Drive' (2001)
David Lynch's Mulholland Drive is a surreal noir masterpiece that blurs the lines between dreams and reality. The film follows the journey of an amnesiac woman, played by Naomi Watts, through the dark and mysterious streets of Los Angeles. Lynch's intricate storytelling and haunting visuals create a mesmerizing experience, inviting viewers to peel the enigmatic layers of this psychological thriller.
'Nightcrawler' (2014)
Dan Gilroy's dark and gripping noir thriller Nightcrawler stars Jake Gyllenhaal as Lou Bloom, a morally ambiguous character deep into the world of crime journalism. As Bloom navigates the nocturnal underbelly of Los Angeles, the movie delves into the ethics of media and the quandary between ambition and amorality. Gyllenhaal's intense performance adds multiple layers to this disturbing and captivating narrative.
'Gone Girl' (2014)
Gone Girl, directed by David Fincher, is a riveting thriller based on Gillian Flynn's best-selling, namesake novel. Starring Ben Affleck and Rosamund Pike as the leads, the film follows the mysterious disappearance of Amy Dunne and the ensuing media frenzy. As secrets unravel and perceptions shift, the story builds a dark narrative of marriage, deception, and societal expectations. Watch it on Netflix.
'Widows' (2018)
Directed by Steve McQueen, Widows is a noir thriller that follows a group of widows forced into a heist after their criminal husbands are killed. Viola Davis leads an ensemble cast that delivers powerful performances in a story layered with suspense, corruption, and female empowerment. McQueen skillfully navigates a gritty Chicago backdrop, creating a compelling narrative that transcends traditional crime dramas.
'Nightmare Alley' (2021)
Guillermo del Toro's Nightmare Alley is set in the shadowy world of carnivals and con artistry. Bradley Cooper stars as Stanton Carlisle, a charismatic yet morally deceptive character whose ambitions lead him down a treacherous, frightening path. The psychological suspense thriller revolves around the ideas of cheating, manipulation, and the high stakes of human desires in a world cloaked in darkness.
