**Robert Siodmak (1900-1973)** was a German-American director, primarily known for his pivotal contribution to the *film noir* genre. Having fled Nazi Germany, he settled in Hollywood in the 1940s, where his career flourished.

He became a master of dark and psychological thrillers, especially at Universal. His most celebrated films include *The Killers* (1946), *Criss Cross* (1949), *Phantom Lady* (1944), and *The Dark Mirror* (1946).

His style is characterized by a masterful use of chiaroscuro, tense and claustrophobic atmospheres, morally ambiguous characters, and protagonists often trapped in situations with no way out. Siodmak explored themes of fate, disillusionment, and betrayal, creating suspense through character psychology and visually evocative direction. He later returned to Europe to continue his career.