Dictionaries and Encyclopedias

Below is a list of reference sources relating to the topic of film noir and available in the UNC library system. Each book's call number is hypertext linked to its record in the UNC Libraries online catalog.

• Hannsberry, Karen Burroughs. Bad Boys: The Actors of Film Noir.
  Jefferson, NC: McFarland, 2003.
  DAVIS REFERENCE PN1998.2.H36 2003
  This reference source provides biographical information on dozens of actors from the classic film noir era.
  
• Hardy, Phil, ed. The BFI Companion to Crime.
  Berkeley : University of California Press, 1997.
  DAVIS REFERENCE PN1995.9.D4 B45 1997
  This resource offers detailed information on the sub-genres and motifs of movies dealing with criminals and their behavior. The author also includes articles on the historical and social background of crime movies. Although it does focus specifically on the genre of film noir, the book discusses many such films. It is also abundantly illustrated with more than 500 photographs.
  
• Hardy, Phil, ed. The Overlook Film Encyclopedia: The Gangster Film.
  Woodstock, N.Y. : Overlook Press, 1998.
  DAVIS REFERENCE PN1995.9.G3 O83 1998
  This resource includes critical entries for more than 1,500 films dealing with gangsters, complete with plot synopses, credits, and 650 black-and-white photographs. Arranged chronologically, the book offers detailed descriptions, statistical information, credits and trivia from early classics through more recent films. Although it does not specifically address film noir, the book includes many such films within its scope.
  
• Silver, Alain, ed. Film Noir: An Encyclopedic Reference to the American Style.
  Woodstock, N.Y.: Overlook Press, 1992.
  DAVIS REFERENCE and UL REFERENCE PN1995.9.F54 F546 1992
  This reference book provides a comprehensive, well-organized, and voluminously illustrated overview of the genre of film noir.
  
• Stephens, Michael L. Film Noir: A Comprehensive, Illustrated Reference to Movies, Terms and Persons.
  Jefferson, N.C. : McFarland & Company, c1995.
  UL REFERENCE PN1995.9.F54 S74 1995
  This reference work includes full filmographic data (studio, running time, production and cast credits, and plot synopsis) for each film, along with an analysis of its place in the genre. There are also biographical entries, which focus on individuals and their role in film noir and provide a complete filmography of their film noir work. Also included is a glossary which places terms in the context of the genre and gives relevant examples from films.