The Onyx Downtown at the Nevada Theatre presents a specially curated film series of neo-noir classics during its Sunday 7 p.m. screenings throughout November. Dubbed “Noirvember,” the series showcases landmark films that build on the tradition of classic film noir with a bolder, more provocative style—reflecting loosened censorship and evolving cinematic sensibilities.
The series opens on Sunday, November 2, with Chinatown (1974), a darkly compelling exploration of corruption and deceit featuring standout performances from Jack Nicholson, Faye Dunaway, and John Huston. It’s safe to say this film could not have been made decades earlier.
Next up on November 9, Carl Franklin’s Devil in a Blue Dress (1995)—based on Walter Mosley’s acclaimed novel—introduces audiences to early-career performances by Denzel Washington, Don Cheadle, and Jennifer Beals. The film dives into a twisted, pulp-infused tale of deception, crime, and sexual intrigue.
On November 16, before The Matrix was even conceived, Laurence Fishburne led the gripping 1992 crime thriller Deep Cover, directed by Bill Duke. With Jeff Goldblum and Charles Martin Smith in supporting roles, this undercover cop story unravels a major drug smuggling operation with unflinching realism.
Rounding out the series on November 23 is David Lynch’s Mulholland Drive (2001), with a special introduction from Nevada City Councilmember and Noir superfan Gary Petersen.
Curated for the Cinephile
This month-long program traces the evolution of the neo-noir movement—from Chinatown (1974) to Mulholland Drive (2001)—capturing nearly three decades of cinematic transformation. These films were thoughtfully programmed to highlight the emergence of new voices in acting, directing, and screenwriting as Los Angeles itself shifts beneath the weight of Hollywood’s dreams and nightmares.
Screening Schedule
- Chinatown – November 2
R, 2 hr 10 min (1974)
Tickets - Devil in a Blue Dress – November 9
R, 1 hr 42 min (1995)
Tickets - Deep Cover – November 16
R, 1 hr 47 min (1992)
Tickets - Mulholland Drive – November 23
R, 2 hr 26 min (2001)
Tickets
About The Onyx Downtown
The Onyx Downtown at the Nevada Theatre continues the beloved tradition of Sunday Night Cinema and community film events at this historic venue. The Onyx is dedicated to presenting films as they were meant to be seen—on the big screen, in a welcoming community theater. Learn more at theonyxtheatre.com and explore our lineup of films at The Onyx on Argall Way, Nevada City, for a 21+ audience.