Crime and Mystery: Deciphering the Differences

The crime genre is a diverse and rich area of film,with sub-genres such as gangster and detective/mystery each capturing distinct facets of criminal and investigative narratives. Both these sub-genres can overlap, creating storylines that blur the lines between good and evil, justice and corruption. While some films may not explicitly differentiate between these sub-genres, a discerning viewer can easily spot the key differences in themes, narrative styles, and character perspectives.

Overlap and Commonalities

There are numerous examples where the lines between crime and detective/mystery films are blurred. Movies like The Undercover Man (1949), The Big Heat (1953), The Big Combo (1956), The Untouchables (1987), and The Highwaymen (2019) showcase this overlap. These films navigate the complexities of law enforcement vs. criminal elements, often intertwining gritty narratives and investigative elements.

Perspective and Style

When it comes to distinguishing between crime and detective/mystery films, one of the key factors is perspective and style. Crime films often focus on the criminal element, placing the criminal in the lead role with a narrative that delves into their lives filled with violence, threats, and murder. Characters in crime movies are more often dark, complex, and morally ambiguous. Contrastingly, detective/mystery films typically highlight the detective or private eye, framing their journey and their quest for justice or solving a mystery.

Grit and Violence in Crime Films

Crime films are typically characterized by their gritty and violent content. Movies like Goodfellas, The Kray, LAYER CAKE, and The Godfather exemplify this. These films are known for their brutal and unflinching portrayal of criminal lifestyles. The protagonist's daily life is often steeped in violence, with scenes of beatings, threats, and murder. These films aim to paint a realistic picture of the underworld, showcasing the harsh realities of criminal activities.

Investigation and Sleuthing in Mystery Films

On the other hand, detective/mystery films often focus on the detectives or private eyes as the central characters. The narrative typically follows their investigative journey, solving crimes or unraveling complex plots. Films like The Big Sleep, Murder My Sweet, and The Lincoln Lawyer exemplify this. These films delve into the mind of the detective, highlighting their methods and techniques for solving puzzles. The narrative here is more focused on the detective's ability to unravel the mystery rather than the criminal's actions.

From Noir to Thriller: Setting the Stage

In the realm of crime and mystery films, the settings can range from the dark alleys of noir to the suspenseful locations of thrillers. Noir often sets the scene in dimly lit streets, dark urban environments, and tense interpersonal dynamics. Thrillers, on the other hand, may use more expansive settings, such as large cityscapes or rural locations, to add to the suspense. Films like Double Indemnity and Sleuth masterfully incorporate the noir aesthetic, while films like Rashomon and The Sixth Sense blend mystery with psychological tension.

The Impact of Director and Writer

The directors and writers of these films play a crucial role in shaping the genre. Directors like Martin Scorsese, whose work in Goodfellas and The Departed is renowned for its vivid depiction of criminal life, and Phillippe de Broca, known for his nuanced and often humorous treatments of crime and mystery in films like Capsule and Les Ca?ds, bring unique perspectives to the genre. Writers like Raymond Chandler, whose detective novels have inspired numerous film adaptations, bring a particular flavor of suspense and intrigue to the detective genre.

Conclusion

While there is no inherent difference in the types of stories being told, the sub-genres of crime and detective/mystery films are distinguished by their protagonists, settings, and narrative emphasis. Crime films often focus on the criminal world, while detective/mystery films revolve around the detective's journey to solve crimes. Understanding these differences can enrich one’s experience of the genre, providing a deeper appreciation for the artistry and storytelling in both crime and mystery films.

Keywords: crime movies, gangster movies, detective movies