Crime noir, with its gritty narratives and unique visual style, has long been a dominant force in cinema. In contrast to many genres, it often shuns the conventional Hollywood happy ending, opting for darker conclusions that reflect the harsh realities of life. This article delves into the realm of crime noir and unveils a curated list of ten movies that deviate from the norm, surprising audiences with unexpected happy endings. From classic 1940s film noirs to more modern neo-noir creations, these films challenge the genre’s conventions and offer a glimmer of hope in an otherwise bleak cinematic landscape.

Table of Contents

1. ‘Motherless Brooklyn’ (2019)

Directed by Edward Norton

Edward Norton’s 2019 film, “Motherless Brooklyn,” stands out as a passion project that takes a unique approach to the crime noir genre. Adapted from the novel of the same name, the film revolves around a detective with OCD and Tourette’s syndrome investigating the murder of his boss. Set in the 1950s, the narrative unfolds as the detective, Lionel, discovers a corrupt politician’s plot to exploit low-income residents. “Motherless Brooklyn” addresses the contentious issue of gentrification, drawing parallels between the film’s community struggles and real-life urban renewal challenges.

In a surprising departure from the noir tradition, the film concludes on a positive note. The protagonist exposes the corrupt politician with the help of the politician’s secret daughter, and the two characters find solace in each other, marking a rare happy ending in the crime noir genre.

Release Date: October 31, 2019
Director: Edward Norton
Cast: Edward Norton, Bruce Willis, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Alec Baldwin, Willem Dafoe
Rating: R
Runtime: 144 minutes

2. ‘The Nice Guys’ (2016)

Directed by Shane Black

Shane Black’s 2016 creation, “The Nice Guys,” offers a refreshing twist on crime noir by infusing elements of comedy into the narrative. Set in the 1970s, the film follows a private eye, played by Ryan Gosling, searching for a missing woman with information about a supposedly deceased porn star. Teaming up with the woman’s paid enforcer, the odd couple unravels a web of corruption involving crooked politicians and mobsters.

In a departure from the usual noir tropes, “The Nice Guys” concludes with a dark comedy veering towards a bright note. While the bad guys seemingly win, the two loner protagonists, played by Gosling and Russell Crowe, learn the importance of relying on others, hinting at a potential partnership, and injecting an unexpected touch of optimism into the noir landscape.

Release Date: May 15, 2016
Director: Shane Black
Cast: Russell Crowe, Ryan Gosling, Angourie Rice
Rating: R
Runtime: 116 minutes

3. ‘Minority Report’ (2002)

Directed by Steven Spielberg

Steven Spielberg’s 2002 sci-fi noir, “Minority Report,” takes a futuristic approach to the genre. The film centers around Detective Anderton, portrayed by Tom Cruise, who uses clairvoyants to prevent murders before they happen. When Anderton himself is implicated as a future killer, he becomes a fugitive, navigating the ethical implications of arresting individuals for crimes they have not yet committed.

While exploring the philosophical complexities of free will, “Minority Report” deviates from the noir norm by delivering a crowd-pleasing ending. Anderton’s exoneration, the exposure of corruption, and the freedom of the clairvoyants offer a surprisingly optimistic conclusion that challenges the genre’s typical bleak outcomes.

Release Date: June 20, 2002
Director: Steven Spielberg
Cast: Tom Cruise, Max Von Sydow, Colin Farrell
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 145 minutes

4. ‘Who Framed Roger Rabbit’ (1988)

Directed by Robert Zemeckis

The 1988 classic “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” adds a unique twist to crime noir by blending live-action with animation. After cartoon character Roger Rabbit is framed for murder, Detective Eddy Valiant, played by Bob Hoskins, navigates Toontown’s underbelly to prove Roger’s innocence.

This film, known for its groundbreaking animation, presents a narrative that transcends its gimmick. “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” delivers a heartwarming message about the need for human connection, portraying the characters’ relationships as they unravel a murder mystery. The film concludes with justice prevailing and characters realizing the importance of mutual support, offering an unexpected positive resolution in a noir setting.

Release Date: June 21, 1988
Director: Robert Zemeckis
Cast: Bob Hoskins, Christopher Lloyd
Rating: PG
Runtime: 103 minutes

5. ‘Gaslight’ (1944)

Directed by George Cukor

The 1944 psychological thriller “Gaslight” remains a quintessential noir film. Ingrid Bergman’s award-winning performance centers around a woman who suspects foul play in her home after moving into her murdered aunt’s residence. The film explores themes of claustrophobia, paranoia, and domestic abuse, offering a nuanced perspective on 1940s housewives.

In a deviation from the norm, “Gaslight” delivers a crowd-pleasing ending. The protagonist, aided by a detective, stops her husband’s sinister plot, highlighting the triumph of justice and the protection of the protagonist’s sanity. The film’s exploration of dark themes concludes on a positive note, defying the genre’s tendency towards bleak resolutions.

6. ‘Inception’ (2010)

Directed by Christopher Nolan

Christopher Nolan’s 2010 heist film, “Inception,” brings a complex plot to the crime noir landscape. Exploring the concept of dreams within dreams, the film delves into the characters’ traumatic pasts and questions the nature of free will. As the narrative unfolds, the protagonist, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, faces ambiguous situations that challenge the audience’s perception.

While “Inception” may appear to end on an ambiguous note, it delivers a surprisingly optimistic message. The film suggests that happiness and fulfillment are subjective and that individuals have the power to shape their own reality. In a departure from traditional noir endings, “Inception” leaves audiences pondering the nature of dreams and reality with a sense of awe and wonder.

Release Date: July 15, 2010
Director: Christopher Nolan
Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Ken Watanabe, Ellen Page
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 148 minutes

7. ‘Leave Her To Heaven’ (1945)

Directed by John M. Stahl

“Leave Her To Heaven,” a 1945 psychological crime thriller, offers a unique perspective on noir by presenting its story in technicolor. The film focuses on a violently possessive wife, played by Gene Tierney, whose obsessive behavior takes a dark turn. The movie’s cinematography, non-hokey dialogue, and grounded acting set it apart from typical 1940s noirs.

Despite its dark themes, “Leave Her To Heaven” takes an unexpected turn towards a crowd-pleasing ending. The film’s conclusion sees the imprisoned protagonist released and reunited with his true love, offering a breath of relief to the audience in contrast to the earlier sadistic narrative elements.

Release Date: 1945
Director: John M. Stahl
Cast: Gene Tierney, Cornel Wilde
Rating: Not Rated
Runtime: Information not available

8. ‘Gilda’ (1946)

Directed by Charles Vidor

The 1946 classic “Gilda” injects a dose of mystery and allure into the crime noir genre. The film revolves around the complex relationship between a casino henchman and his boss’s wife, played by Glenn Ford and Rita Hayworth, respectively. The narrative explores the thin line between love and hate, unfolding a story of seduction and betrayal.

“Gilda” deviates from the expected noir trajectory with its surprising conclusion. The film, known for its mysterious characters and back-and-forth banter, takes an unexpected turn when the destructive relationship between the protagonists transforms into a love story. The film’s light storybook ending contrasts with the dark and titillating journey that precedes it.

Release Date: 1946
Director: Charles Vidor
Cast: Rita Hayworth, Glenn Ford
Rating: Not Rated
Runtime: Information not available

9. ‘Blade Runner’ (1982)

Directed by Ridley Scott

Ridley Scott’s atmospheric masterpiece, “Blade Runner,” presents a dystopian vision of the future. The film follows a detective, played by Harrison Ford, as he hunts down murderous cyborgs seeking ways to extend their lives. Amidst the film’s philosophical exploration of what it means to be alive, “Blade Runner” introduces unexpected elements of humanity and compassion.

While “Blade Runner” initially provides a seemingly optimistic ending, the director’s cut offers a more ominous conclusion. Ridley Scott’s decision to include a unicorn sequence adds complexity to the film’s final moments, aligning them more closely with the genre’s dark nature. The film challenges audiences to reflect on the value of life and the choices that define our humanity.

Release Date: June 25, 1982
Director: Ridley Scott
Cast: Harrison Ford, Rutger Hauer, Sean Young
Rating: R
Runtime: 117 minutes

10. ‘Laura’ (1944)

Directed by Otto Preminger

Otto Preminger’s 1944 crime film, “Laura,” stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of mystery. The movie follows Detective McPherson, played by Dana Andrews, as he investigates the murder of a woman named Laura. Known for its constant narrative misdirections, the film keeps viewers guessing about the true nature of its characters.

“Laura” defies expectations by delivering an ever-evolving mystery that culminates in a surprisingly positive resolution. Despite the film’s initially perplexing narrative choices, the characters find happiness, and justice prevails. “Laura” has rightfully earned its place among the best mystery films, showcasing the genre’s capacity for unexpected and satisfying conclusions.

Release Date: 1944
Director: Otto Preminger
Cast: Dana Andrews, Gene Tierney
Rating: Not Rated
Runtime: Information not available

Conclusion

Crime noir, with its intrinsic darkness and narrative complexities, has been a staple of cinema for decades. The ten films discussed in this article, each with its unique take on the genre, challenge the conventional expectations of bleak endings. From the unexpected positivity of “Motherless Brooklyn” to the mysterious allure of “Gilda” and the atmospheric contemplation of “Blade Runner,” these films prove that crime noir can be a versatile canvas for storytelling. By embracing unexpected happy endings, these movies leave an indelible mark on the genre, offering audiences a departure from the norm and a glimpse into a more optimistic, albeit enigmatic, world of crime and mystery.

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