Final answer:
Film Noir, known for its dark melodramas and crafty female characters, became prominent in the 1940s.
Step-by-step explanation:
Film Noir, characterized by dark melodramas and underhanded female characters, grew into a strong genre during the decade of the 1940s. This period was significant for Hollywood's experimentation in styles and narratives to connect with diverse audiences. The transition to big screens, 3-D effects, and a focus on storytelling helped draw audiences despite cinema's evolving challenges during the mid-20th century.