While I don't want to undermine the progress made in terms of the representation of women in cinema, I think that Double Indemnity and other noir films -- though groundbreaking in their portrayal of women -- hardly present a fair representaion. I definitely think that such films challenge many preconceived notions of gender and the roles women traditionally play (in film and society). Still, however, it seems that the women portrayed in these films are, in many ways, confined and defined by societal norms.
Take Phyllis, for instance. Yes, she is a very strong, witty character, which goes against the grain of the wife or motherly character often portrayed in cinema during this period. But, Phyllis' strength and self-determination stem from the limitations placed upon her by her husband. I'm not saying this is a bad thing at all (for her to be determined to "get out" of the relationship). Rather, that Phyllis D's power is a product of her confinement at the hands of men.
Instead of portraying women in a positive light, films like Double Indemnity often present women in destructive roles. While these roles may be considered powerful and liberating for women, they also may be a bit over-the-top -- providing an extreme generalization and negative image.
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