ASK EDDIE - July 18, 2024

FNF prez Eddie Muller responds to film noir fan questions fielded by the Foundation's Director of Communications Anne Hockens. In this episode, we discuss classic era noirs that resonate with our current sociopolitical landscapes, Eddie’s involvement with Tab Hunter’s memoir, “Tab Hunter Confidential”, character actors who automatically elevate a film, “Miller’s Crossing”, and more. We wind up with a discussion of which classic noir we would like to see directed by the modern director of our choice. Sorry, folks, no cats this week.
This week’s questions:
1. Is it entirely up to you or are there others who help to pick the festival’s theme? Does the festival always have a theme?
-David, Takoma Park, MD
2. When I think of movies of the film noir era that speak to our current sociopolitical landscape
Can you name other noirs that address criminality that extends beyond the interpersonal? But I'm interested in any film noir that seems to speak to our times, whatever the theme.
-Suzanne
3. What is the status of the next publication of “Dark City Dames”?
-J.W.
4. I just finished “Tab Hunter Confidential” which Eddie wrote with Tab. Since Tab was never in a noir film, how did Eddie get involved in the project? Also, having collaborated with notables myself in writing their book, what was the process like for Eddie?
-Michael, Post Falls, Idaho
5. What character actor always makes the scene/movie more interesting immediately when he appears on the screen?
-Alan, San Anselmo, CA
6. Why did the classic noir period end when it did?
-Derek, Indian Wells, CA
7. My favorite film by the Coen brothers is “Miller’s Crossing”. I’d enjoy hearing any comments that you have.
-Darrell in Ann Arbor
8. I haven’t seen a new “Noir or Not?” video on social media since July 2023. Any plans to bring it back? I hope it does in the near future. (This question is from October 2023)
-Brett, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
9. Is “Suddenly, Last Summer”, noir?
-Magie and Kurt
10. I have a movie fantasy proposal that I think could happen if the stars aligned. Love to know your thoughts and was wondering if you might have one if two of your own.
First: In a Lonely Place directed by Park Chan-wook.
Second: The Maltese Falcon directed by Werner Herzog.
-Steve, Exeter, New Hampshire
Want your question answered in a future episode? We solicit questions from our email subscribers in our monthly newsletters. Sign up for free at www.filmnoirfo...
Everyone who signs up on our email list and contributes $20 or more to the Film Noir Foundation receives the digital version of NOIR CITY Magazine for a year. Donate here: www.filmnoirfo...