The term 'dark movie genre' is often used to refer to the film NOIR genre, which originated in the 1940s and 1950s. This genre is characterized by its dark and cynical themes, as well as its use of black-and-white cinematography. NOIR films often feature a morally ambiguous protagonist, who is usually an anti-hero or a femme fatale. These films often explore themes of crime, corruption, and moral ambiguity. NOIR films are often set in urban environments, and they often feature a detective or private investigator as the main character.