Black & White Movies

Action

Here’s Flash Casey (1938)
3/5 (1)

“Here’s Flash Casey” is a 1938 crime drama directed by Lynn Shores and starring Eric Linden, Boots Mallory, and C. Aubrey Smith. The film follows the story of a newspaper photographer who becomes embroiled in a dangerous criminal plot.

The film centers around Flash Casey (Eric Linden), a young and ambitious newspaper photographer who is always looking for the next big scoop. When a notorious gangster is murdered, Flash sees it as a chance to make a name for himself and sets out to investigate the case. Along the way, he meets a beautiful woman named Miss Foster (Boots Mallory), who may have information about the killer.

As Flash delves deeper into the case, he becomes the target of the gangster’s henchmen, who will stop at nothing to protect their boss’s interests. Flash must use all of his wits and cunning to stay one step ahead of the criminals and uncover the truth behind the murder.

Flash is aided in his investigation by his editor, Pappy (C. Aubrey Smith), who provides him with valuable information and guidance. Together, they work to expose the criminal plot and bring the murderers to justice.

“Here’s Flash Casey” is a thrilling crime drama with a fast-paced plot and a strong cast. It explores themes of corruption, power, and the power of the press. The film remains a classic example of the crime film genre of the 1930s and is a must-see for fans of the genre.

Directors:
Lynn Shores

Writer:
John W. Krafft, George Harmon Coxe

Stars:
Eric Linden, Boots Mallory, Cully Richards

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Bulldog Drummond’s Bride (1939)
3/5 (1)

“Bulldog Drummond’s Bride” is a 1939 film directed by James P. Hogan and starring John Howard, Heather Angel, and H.B. Warner. It is based on the character Bulldog Drummond, created by H.C. McNeile.

The film follows the adventures of Captain Hugh “Bulldog” Drummond (John Howard) as he prepares to marry his fiancée, Phyllis Clavering (Heather Angel). However, their plans are interrupted when Phyllis’ father, Colonel Clavering (H.B. Warner), is kidnapped by a group of international criminals who want to use his scientific knowledge to build a powerful weapon.

Drummond and his friend Algy (Reginald Denny) set out to rescue Colonel Clavering, but they soon discover that the plot is more complicated than they first thought. They are aided in their quest by Phyllis, as well as a group of eccentric characters, including a former safecracker named “The Mouse” (E.E. Clive) and a bumbling police inspector named Tredwell (Franklin Pangborn).

As they delve deeper into the criminal underworld, Drummond and his team face a series of obstacles, including a dangerous femme fatale named Mrs. Mercer (Zeffie Tilbury) and a sinister mastermind known only as “The Black Widow”. In the end, they must race against time to prevent the villains from using their weapon to launch a devastating attack on London.

“Bulldog Drummond’s Bride” is a fast-paced adventure film with a mix of humor, suspense, and action. It is notable for its stylish art deco sets and its memorable performances by the ensemble cast.

Directors:
James P. Hogan

Writer:
Stuart Palmer, Garnett Weston, Herman C. McNeile

Stars:
John Howard, Heather Angel, H.B. Warner

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Escape By Night (1937)
3/5 (1)

“Escape by Night” is a 1937 American crime drama film directed by Hamilton MacFadden. The movie stars William Hall, Anne Nagel, and Dean Jagger.

The story revolves around a gang of bank robbers who plan to rob a bank in a small town. The robbers manage to escape with the loot but are pursued by the police. One of the robbers, Steve (William Hall), is separated from his accomplices and ends up taking refuge in a farmhouse, where he meets and falls in love with Jean (Anne Nagel), the farmer’s daughter. Jean initially doesn’t know that Steve is a criminal but eventually discovers his true identity. Steve, meanwhile, is torn between his love for Jean and his loyalty to his fellow robbers.

As the police close in on the robbers, Steve must make a choice between escaping with the loot and leaving Jean behind or staying with Jean and risking capture. The climax of the movie takes place during a violent shootout between the robbers and the police.

Overall, “Escape by Night” is a tense and suspenseful film that explores the themes of love, loyalty, and betrayal. The film has been praised for its strong performances and well-crafted storyline.

Directors:
Hamilton MacFadden

Writer:
Harold Shumate

Stars:
William Hall, Anne Nagel, Dean Jagger

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Kid Monk Baroni (1952)
3/5 (1)

“Kid Monk Baroni” is a drama film released in 1952. The film is directed by Harold D. Schuster and stars Leonard Nimoy (in his first credited role), Richard Rober, and Bruce Cabot.

The movie follows the story of Leonard “Kid Monk” Baroni (Leonard Nimoy), a young man with a deformed face who is bullied and rejected by his peers. Despite his challenges, Kid Monk is determined to make something of himself and become a successful boxer.

Kid Monk trains hard and eventually catches the eye of boxing promoter Quinn (Richard Rober), who sees potential in the young fighter. Quinn arranges for Kid Monk to have a series of fights, and he quickly rises through the ranks of the boxing world.

As Kid Monk’s fame and success grow, he becomes more and more conflicted about his past and his desire for revenge against those who bullied him. He begins to distance himself from his old friends and becomes more focused on his career.

However, when Kid Monk is challenged to a fight by a former bully, he is forced to confront his past and decide what kind of man he wants to be. In a dramatic final fight, Kid Monk faces his biggest challenge yet and emerges victorious.

In the end, Kid Monk realizes that success in the boxing ring is not enough to bring him true happiness. He decides to leave the world of boxing behind and start a new life, where he can focus on being true to himself and those he cares about.

Directors:
Harold D. Schuster

Writer:
Aben Kandel, Dick Conway

Stars:
Richard Rober, Bruce Cabot, Allene Roberts

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Beat the Devil (1954)
4/5 (1)

“Beat the Devil” is a 1954 adventure-comedy film directed by John Huston and written by Huston and Truman Capote. The film stars Humphrey Bogart, Jennifer Jones, Gina Lollobrigida, and Peter Lorre.

The story follows a group of international adventurers who gather in a small Italian coastal town while waiting for a ship to take them to East Africa. Among the group are Billy Dannreuther (Bogart) and his wife Maria (Jones), a British couple (Edward Underdown and Ivor Barnard), a German (Peter Lorre), and a beautiful Italian woman (Gina Lollobrigida).

The group is approached by a mysterious stranger named Peterson (Robert Morley), who offers them a chance to invest in a uranium mine in Africa. The group agrees to the offer, but soon realizes that Peterson is not what he seems and that they are caught up in a dangerous game of deception and betrayal.

As they wait for their ship to arrive, the group becomes embroiled in a series of misadventures, including car chases, plane crashes, and encounters with dangerous criminals. Along the way, they must outwit Peterson and his henchmen, who are determined to get their hands on the uranium mine.

In the end, the group manages to foil Peterson’s plans and escape with their lives. However, they soon discover that the uranium mine was a hoax, and they have been duped out of their money. Despite this setback, the group remains optimistic and looks forward to their next adventure.

“Beat the Devil” is a witty and entertaining film that satirizes the conventions of the adventure genre. It is also notable for its impressive cast and for being one of the first films to use an improvised script.

Directors:
John Huston

Writer:
Claud Cockburn, Truman Capote, John Huston

Stars:
Humphrey Bogart, Jennifer Jones, Gina Lollobrigida

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Paradise Express (1937)
3/5 (1)

“Paradise Express” is a 1937 American film directed by Joseph Kane and starring Grant Withers and Dorothy Appleby. The movie is a classic B-Western that tells the story of a group of lawmen and outlaws who board a train to transport a notorious criminal to trial. The train becomes the stage for a showdown between the two groups, as they battle to gain control of the prisoner.

The film opens with a robbery, where a band of outlaws led by Trigger Magee (played by Charles Middleton) steals a valuable shipment of gold. The lawmen are hot on their heels and manage to capture Trigger, but they must transport him across the country by train to stand trial. The train is the Paradise Express, and it is filled with a colorful cast of characters, including a newspaper reporter named Steve (played by Grant Withers) and a young woman named Mary (played by Dorothy Appleby).

As the train makes its way across the country, Trigger’s gang attempts to free him by any means necessary, leading to a series of action-packed and suspenseful scenes. Along the way, Steve and Mary fall in love, and Steve finds himself torn between his duty to the law and his feelings for Mary.

Eventually, Trigger’s gang manages to derail the train, and a dramatic shootout ensues. In the end, Trigger is killed, and Steve and Mary are left to continue their romance.

“Paradise Express” is a classic example of the B-Western genre, with its fast-paced action, dramatic confrontations, and colorful characters. It was a popular film at the time of its release and has since become a favorite among fans of classic Westerns.

Directors:
Joseph Kane

Writer:
Jack Natteford, Betty Burbridge, Allan Vaughan Elston

Stars:
Grant Withers, Dorothy Appleby, Arthur Hoyt

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The Return of Draw Egan (1916)
3/5 (1)

“The Return of Draw Egan” is a 1916 American silent Western film directed by William S. Hart and featuring Hart in the lead role. The movie tells the story of Draw Egan, a notorious outlaw who has been released from prison after serving time for a crime he did not commit. Egan sets out to clear his name and track down the real culprit.

Upon his release, Egan finds that his reputation as an outlaw has made it difficult for him to lead a normal life. He is constantly hounded by the law and treated with suspicion by the townspeople. Egan’s only friend is a saloon owner named Kate (played by Louise Glaum), who believes in his innocence.

Egan’s investigation leads him to a corrupt sheriff named Larkin (played by J.P. Lockney), who was responsible for framing him. Egan confronts Larkin and a gunfight ensues, resulting in Larkin’s death. Egan is wounded in the shootout and taken care of by Kate.

While recovering from his injuries, Egan falls in love with Kate and decides to turn his life around. He gives up his outlaw ways and becomes a rancher, hoping to start a new life with Kate.

“The Return of Draw Egan” is a classic Western movie that explores themes of redemption, justice, and loyalty. William S. Hart’s performance as Draw Egan is highly praised and the film is considered one of the best examples of early silent Westerns.

Directors:
William S. Hart

Writer:
C. Gardner Sullivan

Stars:
William S. Hart, Margery Wilson, Robert McKim

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King Solomon’s Mines (1937)
4/5 (2)

“King Solomon’s Mines” is a 1937 adventure film directed by Robert Stevenson and starring Paul Robeson, Cedric Hardwicke, and Anna Lee. The movie is based on the novel of the same name by H. Rider Haggard.

The story follows Allan Quartermain (Cedric Hardwicke), a hunter and adventurer who is hired by a woman named Elizabeth Curtis (Anna Lee) to lead an expedition to find her missing father, who was searching for the fabled King Solomon’s Mines in Africa. Along the way, they are joined by a Zulu warrior named Umbopa (Paul Robeson) who claims to know the location of the mines.

The group encounters many dangers on their journey, including hostile tribes, treacherous terrain, and deadly animals. They also discover a hidden kingdom ruled by a ruthless queen (played by Roland Young) who desires the treasure of King Solomon’s Mines for herself.

As they journey deeper into the African wilderness, the group faces many challenges and must use their skills and wits to survive. Along the way, Allan and Elizabeth develop a romantic relationship, and Umbopa’s true identity and motivations are revealed.

“King Solomon’s Mines” is a thrilling adventure story with exotic locations, colorful characters, and exciting action sequences. The film has become a classic of the adventure genre and has been adapted into several other films and television shows over the years.

Directors:
Robert Stevenson, Geoffrey Barkas

Writer:
H. Rider Haggard, Michael Hogan, Roland Pertwee

Stars:
Paul Robeson, Cedric Hardwicke, Roland Young

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Jungle Book (1942)
4/5 (1)

“The Jungle Book” is a 1942 adventure film based on the classic book of the same name by Rudyard Kipling. Directed by Zoltan Korda, the movie follows the story of a young boy named Mowgli who is raised by wolves in the jungle.

As a young child, Mowgli is abandoned in the jungle and is taken in by a pack of wolves. He grows up among the animals and becomes friends with Baloo the bear and Bagheera the panther, who teach him the ways of the jungle. Mowgli also faces dangers from Shere Khan, a Bengal tiger who wants to kill him.

As Mowgli grows older, he becomes curious about the world beyond the jungle and begins to question his place in it. He meets several humans, including a beautiful girl named Mahala, who teach him about love and human society.

However, Mowgli’s peaceful life in the jungle is threatened when a group of villagers led by Buldeo, a hunter, come looking for treasure. Mowgli must use his knowledge of the jungle and his animal friends to protect his home and prevent the humans from destroying it.

In the end, Mowgli is able to defeat Buldeo and save his jungle home. He also makes the difficult decision to leave the jungle and join human society, but promises to return and visit his animal friends. The movie ends with Mowgli walking away with Mahala, ready to begin a new chapter in his life.

Directors:
Zoltan Korda

Writer:
Laurence Stallings, Rudyard Kipling

Stars:
SabuJoseph Calleia, John Qualen

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So’s Your Aunt Emma (1942)
3/5 (1)

“So’s Your Aunt Emma” is a comedy film released in 1942, directed by Jean Yarbrough and starring Zasu Pitts, Roger Pryor, and Warren Hymer. The story revolves around a group of gangsters who hide out in the home of a sweet, elderly woman named Emma (played by Pitts) while they plan their next heist.

Emma is completely unaware of her houseguests’ true identities and believes them to be respectable businessmen. However, things start to go awry when Emma’s niece and her fiancé become suspicious of the strange men in the house.

As the plot thickens, the gangsters find themselves being pursued by both the police and a rival gang, forcing them to make a daring escape while Emma and her niece are caught in the middle of the chaos.

Despite the danger and confusion, Emma proves to be a savvy and resourceful woman, using her wits and charm to help her family and outsmart the gangsters. In the end, the criminals are caught and Emma is hailed as a hero.

The film is known for its slapstick humor and zany characters, with Zasu Pitts delivering a memorable performance as the lovable and unsuspecting Emma. “So’s Your Aunt Emma” remains a charming and entertaining example of classic Hollywood comedy.

Directors:
Jean Yarbrough

Writer:
George Bricker, Edmond Kelso, Harry Hervey

Stars:
Zasu Pitts, Roger Pryor, Warren Hymer

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One of Our Aircraft Is Missing (1942)
4/5 (1)

“One of Our Aircraft Is Missing” is a 1942 British war film directed by Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger, and starring Godfrey Tearle, Eric Portman, and Hugh Williams. The movie tells the story of a bomber crew whose plane is shot down over the Netherlands during a bombing mission over Germany in World War II.

The film begins with the crew taking off on their mission, but their plane is hit by enemy fire and they are forced to bail out. The crew members are scattered across the Dutch countryside and must work together to evade capture by the Germans and make their way back to safety in England.

The movie portrays the bravery and determination of the Dutch resistance fighters who help the British airmen, risking their own lives to shelter them from the Nazis. The airmen must navigate the unfamiliar terrain and face numerous obstacles along the way, including a German patrol and a treacherous river crossing.

As they make their way through enemy territory, the airmen must rely on their training and the kindness of strangers to survive. They also learn important lessons about courage, sacrifice, and the value of teamwork.

“One of Our Aircraft Is Missing” is a powerful and suspenseful film that celebrates the bravery and resilience of ordinary people in times of war. The movie’s message is that, despite the hardships and dangers of war, people can work together to overcome adversity and emerge victorious.

Directors:
Michael Powell, Emeric Pressburger

Writer:
Emeric Pressburger, Michael Powell

Stars:
Godfrey Tearle, Eric Portman, Hugh Williams

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Two Weeks to Live (1943)
3/5 (1)

“Two Weeks to Live” (1943), directed by Malcolm St. Clair and starring Chester Lauck and Norris Goff as the characters Abner and Lum, respectively. In the film, Abner is mistakenly diagnosed with a rare disease and given only two weeks to live. His partner Lum sees an opportunity to make money by staging a series of dangerous stunts featuring Abner, with the intention of cashing in on the publicity and media attention. However, as the two weeks draw to a close, they realize the error in their ways and the importance of valuing their friendship above money and fame. The film is a comedy and is part of the long-running “Lum and Abner” series.

Directors:
Malcolm St. Clair

Writer:
Michael L. Simmons, Roswell Rogers

Stars:
Chester Lauck, Norris Goff, Franklin Pangborn

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The Navigator (1924)
4/5 (1)

“The Navigator” is a silent comedy film released in 1924 and directed by Donald Crisp and Buster Keaton. The movie stars Buster Keaton as Rollo Treadway, a wealthy young man who sets out to impress his love interest Betsy O’Brien, played by Kathryn McGuire.

The movie begins with Rollo discovering that Betsy has rejected his marriage proposal. Determined to win her heart, Rollo decides to embark on a trip around the world, but instead of traveling by ship with a large crew, he sets out with just himself and his trusty servant, played by Frederick Vroom.

After a series of mishaps and misadventures, Rollo and his servant end up stranded on a deserted ship, the Navigator. They soon realize that the ship has been taken over by a group of anarchists who plan to use it to attack New York City.

With no experience at sea, Rollo and his servant must figure out how to operate the ship and stop the anarchists from carrying out their plan. Along the way, they encounter a number of obstacles and challenges, including a stormy sea, a giant octopus, and a malfunctioning diving suit.

In the end, Rollo and his servant are able to stop the anarchists and bring the ship safely back to port. Rollo also finally wins Betsy’s heart, and they decide to get married. The movie ends with Rollo and Betsy sailing off into the sunset on the Navigator.

Directors:
Donald Crisp, Buster Keaton

Writer:
Clyde Bruckman, Joseph A. Mitchell, Jean C. Havez

Stars:
Buster Keaton, Kathryn McGuire, Frederick Vroom

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The High Sign (1921)
4/5 (1)

“The High Sign” is a silent short film released in 1921 and directed by Buster Keaton and Eddie Cline. The film follows Buster Keaton’s character, who wanders into a shooting gallery looking for work. He’s hired by the gallery owner to be a sharpshooter, but he’s not very good at it.

Later, he meets a group of burglars who ask him to help them rob a house. They give him a high sign, but he doesn’t understand what it means. Buster unintentionally foils their robbery attempt and accidentally saves the day.

As the burglars escape, they leave behind a clue that points to Buster as the mastermind behind the robbery. The police chase him, and Buster finds himself in a house full of secret passages and traps, where he tries to evade the police and clear his name.

In the end, Buster catches the real mastermind behind the robbery, and the police exonerate him. The film ends with Buster finding a new job, and the burglars being apprehended.

“The High Sign” is known for its inventive stunts and physical comedy, which were a hallmark of Buster Keaton’s films. It’s considered one of his early classics and helped establish him as a major star in the silent film era.

Directors:
Edward F. Cline, Buster Keaton

Writer:
Edward F. Cline, Buster Keaton

Stars:
Buster Keaton, Bartine Burkett, Charles Dorety

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The general (1926)
4/5 (1)

“The General” is a silent comedy film released in 1926 and directed by Buster Keaton and Clyde Bruckman. The film tells the story of a train engineer named Johnnie Gray, who sets out to recover his beloved locomotive, “The General,” after it is stolen by Union spies during the Civil War.

The film is known for its intricate and dangerous stunts, as well as its innovative use of trains and locomotives. It received mixed reviews upon its initial release but has since been recognized as one of the greatest silent comedies ever made.

“The General” is also notable for its historical context, as it is set during the Civil War and portrays both Union and Confederate soldiers in a sympathetic light. The film has been praised for its humanizing portrayal of soldiers on both sides of the conflict.

Overall, “The General” remains a beloved classic of the silent film era and a testament to the comedic genius of Buster Keaton.

Directors:
Clyde Bruckman, Buster Keaton

Writer:
Buster Keaton, Clyde Bruckman, Al Boasberg

Stars:
Buster Keaton, Marion Mack, Glen Cavender

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Black & White Series

Series List A-Z

Top Rated Moveis

1 Great Expectations (1946)
5/5 (2)
2 Too Late for Tears (1949)
5/5 (1)
3 Strike (1925)
5/5 (1)
4 Rebecca (1940)
5/5 (1)
5 His Girl Friday (1940)
5/5 (1)
6 The Phantom Carriage (1921)
5/5 (1)
7 The Intruder (1962)
5/5 (1)
8 The Passion of Joan of Arc (1928)
5/5 (1)
9 Charade (1953)
5/5 (1)
10 Intolerance (1916)
5/5 (1)