Dark city dames The women who defined film noir

Muller (host of Noir Alley on Turner Classic Movies and president/founder of the Film Noir Foundation) updates his 2001 homage to the dames of film noir cinema with new material. The original book was an insightful look at the life and careers of six actresses (Jane Greer, Audrey Totter, Evelyn Keyes, Marie Windsor, Ann Savage, and Coleen Gray) who made an impression portraying hard-edged characters within the shadowy worlds of film noir. This influential cinematic style was popular in the 1940s and 1950s. A chapter on their beginnings and successes is followed by a chapter on their personal lives long after their careers faded. Muller, who became friends with his subjects, infuses intimate anecdotes and offers fascinating insights into their stories. His knowledge of the era also brings a perceptive look into filmmaking during that time, emphasizing the hurdles of censorship and Hollywood blacklisting. This new edition profiles 10 more actors (including Rhonda Fleming, Joan Bennett, Ruth Roman, Jan Sterling, Marsha Hunt, and Claire Trevor). VERDICT This attractively designed book, featuring film stills, publicity posters, and gorgeous photos of its subjects, is a valuable addition to the genre.--Phillip Oliver