Ciné is revisiting a world of murderers, gum-shoes and mystery in traditional format.

Ciné, Athens’ art house movie theater, is hosting a noir film series during January and February. As a part of the series Ciné will be showing “The Big Sleep,” “Kiss Me Deadly” and “Double Indemnity” — all in 35mm.

The noir series stands out from past series, such as the summer classic series and the ongoing director spotlight, which have not shared a single genre.

“This is the first that we’ve put together with the idea of developing a theme of a weekly entry in the series,” said Dave Marr, a member of Ciné’s programming committee.

Ciné’s programming committee, which includes University film professors, is reviving mid-century film noir, projected on 35mm, as a way to both educate and entertain. ALLISON LOVE/Staff

In choosing the films, finding quality 35mm prints was an extremely important consideration. The medium is as integral to the theater’s mission as it tries to preserve a disappearing medium while revitalizing a significant era of film.

“We want to make it as special as it can be,” said Chris Sieving, a University professor. Screening in 35mm sets Ciné apart from other theaters, many of which have converted to digital projection.

“Despite advances in digital technology and digital projection, it is still the case that the 35mm print is better.”

The themed series comes after the cinema’s recent transition to non-profit status earlier this month.

As a part of the transition, control of Ciné was turned over to the Athens Film Arts Institute.

“This is sort of a kickoff event for the new non-profit Ciné,” Marr said. “We hope that it will raise awareness of the theater as a great community resource.”

Ciné’s programming committee added the noir series to the bill as a part of an effort to take on a greater educational role.

“We felt as a committee that part of that should be sort of to redouble our efforts to bringing in some classic … films that would enrich people’s understanding of film history,” Marr said.

In addition to the screenings, Marr will be joined by Sieving and fellow University film professor Antje Ascheid, who will each introduce one film to provide context for the time period, style and content of the film.

Sieving also said that beyond the educational considerations, there is a nostalgic element viewing films.

“There is something about seeing films on film that appeals to our audience,” he said, “it is what they grew up with and they have attuned themselves to it.”

It is becoming increasingly difficult, though, to screen 35mm as distributors change due to monetary considerations.

“It’s becoming a rare opportunity, especially for a city of our size, to see any 35mm print,” Marr said — and because of the rarity he expects the screenings to sell out.

“They are incredibly special,” he said, “and I cannot imagine why people would not flock to these events.”