Noir, often referred to as "dark," is a genre characterized by its cynical attitude, moral ambiguity, and a focus on crime and corruption. It typically features flawed protagonists, often anti-heroes, who navigate a world filled with deception and betrayal. The narrative style is usually gritty and realistic, emphasizing the darker aspects of human nature. In literature and film, noir often employs a distinctive visual style, marked by high contrast lighting and shadowy settings. Classic examples include film noir movies from the 1940s and 1950s, such as Double Indemnity and The Maltese Falcon, which showcase the genre's signature themes of fate and existential despair.