The Author Investigates The Alienation Expressed By Film Noir, Pinpointing Its Motivation In The Conflict Between Desires For Escape, Autonomy And Freedom. This Survey Examines How Film Noir Reflected Radical Changes In The Physical And Social Landscapes Of Postwar America, Defining The Genre's Contribution To The Eternal Debate Between The Values Of Individualism And Community--provided By Publisher. Introduction -- Imaginary Prisons: Noir And The City -- In Exile At Home: Noir Between Two Worlds -- Maximum Security: Domestic Noir -- The Tyranny Of Neighbors: Small-town Noir -- Blind Highways: Noir On The Road -- Mirage Of Safety: Noir On The Mexican Border -- Lone And Level Sands: Desert Noir -- Past Sunset: Noir Westerns -- Private Traps: Noir In The Mind. Imogen Sara Smith. Includes Bibliographical References And Index.