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Noir, a style of crime fiction and film characterized by its dark, cynical, and often violent themes, emerged in the United States during the 1930s and 1940s. Rooted in the hardboiled detective novels of authors like Dashiell Hammett and Raymond Chandler, noir films captivated audiences with their morally ambiguous characters, gritty urban settings, and suspenseful plots. The style's visual aesthetic, characterized by high-contrast lighting, chiaroscuro shadows, and Dutch angles, further accentuated its gritty and atmospheric tone. Noir continues to influence contemporary filmmakers and writers, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture.