The classification and cataloging of objects seem to satisfy a fundamental need of human beings, be they plants, minerals or animals. It seems that this fundamental need to analyze and categorize elements also applies to art objects, including films – and the recognition or rejection of film noir as a genre has been discussed ever since the term was coined. While the term itself is valid, film noir as a genre is a misnomer. More properly, film noir should be considered a style in its own right, but certainly not a genre, defined by the very definitions of the words “style” and “genre”. We will limit our topic here to the classic film noir period of 1941-1958, recognizing that all modern noir variants seek to emulate this period. These modern films do not lack merit; however, for the purposes of defining and labeling noir, what matters are the original defining elements. If classic film noir is a stylistic movement, then the films that follow that movement are also, by definition, a stylistic movement and similarly not a genre. The primary elements we must examine when categorizing the film noir phenomenon are the definitions of genre and style. . The term “genre,” when applied to film, implies setting, narrative structure, and story development. Style, on the other hand, includes stylistic elements, cinematic techniques, and tone about the subject matter. Therefore, films of the same or similar genre can be directed in a different style and look completely different. For example, both Blade Runner and Star Wars obviously belong to the science fiction genre; Only Blade Runner is regularly considered neo-noir. Examining the common aspects of those films considered noir will reveal that genre elements vary widely, while stylistic elements… middle of paper… films that are universally considered noir. By applying these elements to multiple film genres, filmmakers have demonstrated the truth of noir as a true style and not a genre in its own right. This in no way diminishes the importance or appeal of the phenomenon, it only illustrates the method of categorization using the most rigorous technical definitions. Works Cited Conard, Mark T. The Philosophy of Film Noir. Lexington: University of Kentucky Press, 2006.Rich, Nathaniel. Conversations with history. Interview. UC Berkeley, June 3, 2005. 3. Web..Schrader, Paul. Notes on film noir. Filmex, 1971 The Film Noir, at the first Los Angeles International Film Exhibition (reprinted in Film Comment, Spring 1972).Web. February 22.2012 .