In my viewing experience there are five main structural features of film noir that together produce a specific location for women and somewhat ambiguous ideological effects. These are:

1. The investigative structure of the narrative
2. Plot devices such as voice-over or flashback, or frequently both 3. Proliferation of points of view
3. Frequent unstable characterisation of the heroine
4. An ‘expressionist’ visual style and emphasis on sexuality in the photographing of women.