29:Digging into the Dark: The Science of Noir Films

Join us in the basement studio with special guest Jim Siergey as we explore the fascinating world of noir films, their historical context, and the evolution of forensics in cinema.

Jotham Austin, II PhD

Nick Elizalde

, and

Georgia Geis

Feb 19, 2025

Transcript

In this episode, Joe, Georgia, and Nick welcome special guest Jim Siergey, a cartoonist and animator known for being one of the creators of the underground comix strip 'Cultural Jetlag' in the 1990s. The group dives into an engaging discussion on the science and style of noir films. They cover key aspects such as the definitive elements of the genre, famous examples, and the evolution of forensics in relation to noir storytelling. Throughout the episode, the hosts share their thoughts on whether certain modern films qualify as noir and the impact of the Hays Code on classic films. They also announce their upcoming art show, 'Touch of Noir,' at the Promise You Art House in Highland, Indiana. The conversation wraps up with a light-hearted chat about dry January and their current favorite non-alcoholic beverages.

Episode Artwork by Jim Siergey and Georgia Geis

Be sure to check out Georgia and Jim’s art show:

Touch of Noir at the Promise You Art House, February 28th, Highland, IN.

Question to start you digging your own holes:

Drop us a comment with your thoughts on these questions:

1️⃣ Is Noir a Genre or a Style? – Do you think noir is its own category, or just a unique visual and storytelling technique applied to crime films? Tell us what you think!

2️⃣ What Modern Films Feel Like Noir? – We debated Se7en, Silence of the Lambs, Joker, and more. What modern films or TV shows feel like true noir to you?

3️⃣ Can Noir Work Outside the City? – Could a noir story take place in a small town, the countryside, or even a sci-fi setting? What’s the best non-urban noir you’ve seen?

4️⃣ Would Modern Forensics Kill Classic Noir? – If old-school detectives had DNA testing and surveillance cameras, would noir films still work? How could a modern noir get around today’s forensic advancements?

5️⃣ What’s the Ultimate Noir Film for Beginners? – If you had to recommend just one noir movie to someone new to the genre, what would it be? And if you don’t know where to start, listen to the episode!

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Episode Artwork by Jim Siergey and Georgia Geis

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Discussion about this episode

Rabbit Hole of Research

Our goal is to have fun learning science through the lens of science fiction, fantasy, and pop-culture. We will start in one place and let the conversation lead us down the winding scenic road exploring the science in science fiction, separating the facts from the Handwavium. We’ll have a little fun and you’ll learn a few facts you can use to impress your friends at a party or use as a conversation starter to go down your own rabbit holes.

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