I finally got around to rewatching this movie, and after almost 3 years of faint memories, all I have to say is that The Big Sleep is one of the most confusing noirs out there, and that's what makes it so good (as long as you're paying attention). If you've watched this film and wondered why it's so confusing, I suggest you take a look at the original novel. What happened is that the already twisting, spiraling plot – one so confusing that even Chandler himself didn't know certain details – was heavily censored thanks to Hays Code, and various story points got lost in the mess. And yet, even still, The Big Sleep manages to be entertaining and suspenseful, no doubt supported by its great cast and quick witty dialogue.

This is the first film noir I ever watched and got me hooked on the genre. From its (fittingly) dreamy orchestral score to its ever expanding murder plot, there's a lot to say abot Laura Hunt, both as the ill-fated dame and as her oh so hauntingly beautiful portrait. If you like murder plots and are looking to get into film noir, I definitely recommend watching it.

The Big Heat is one hell of a film... It's got everything, from dead wives and half-burnt faces all the way to the main protagonist going "Why I oughta...". Seeing Bannion's gradual decline from a decent father down to a revenge-seeking mess of a man is very entertaining. If you're looking for a crazier film noir, this one's bound to do ya good. No joke, I screamed, cried and laughed watching this film.

With its dark lighting, constant feeling of paranoia and a doomed finale felt from the very beginning, I Wake Up Screaming is truly the father of all noirs. Vicky's untimely demise is what launches the plot forward, yet it becomes almost like a background element as everything surrounding her murder starts to unravel in complex loops and tangled knots. This film is another good starting point for folks who are just getting into the genre.