Black & White Movies

Action

The Phantom Fiend (The Lodger) (1932)
3/5 (1)

“The Lodger” is a 1932 film directed by Maurice Elvey, and also known as “The Phantom Fiend” in some countries. It is a thriller based on the novel of the same name by Marie Belloc Lowndes, which was inspired by the Jack the Ripper murders.

The film takes place in London, where a serial killer known as “The Avenger” is targeting young blonde women. At the same time, a mysterious man calling himself Mr. Slade (Ivor Novello) rents a room from a family of landladies. The family has two daughters, Daisy (June Tripp) and her older sister, a model named Kitty (Marie Ault).

As the murders continue, Kitty becomes increasingly suspicious of Slade, who seems to have a strange fascination with the killings. She discovers that Slade goes out at night wearing a long dark coat and carrying a bag, which he claims contains a musical instrument. Meanwhile, Daisy and Slade become romantically involved.

Kitty contacts the police, who start to investigate Slade. As the evidence mounts against him, Slade confesses to the killings. However, in a twist ending, it is revealed that Slade is actually the brother of one of the victims, who was driven to commit the murders out of a desire for revenge. The real killer is still at large, and the film ends with Slade’s execution.

The film is notable for its innovative use of sound, which was still a relatively new technology at the time. It also features a memorable performance by Ivor Novello as the enigmatic Mr. Slade. “The Lodger” has been remade several times, including in 1944 by John Brahm and in 2009 by David Ondaatje.

Directors:
Maurice Elvey

Writer:
Marie Belloc Lowndes, Miles Mander, Paul Rotha

Stars:
Ivor Novello, Elizabeth Allan, A.W. Baskcomb

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Nabonga (1944)
3/5 (1)

“Nabonga” is a 1944 adventure film directed by Sam Newfield. The movie stars Buster Crabbe as a pilot named Jim “Nevada” Bradford, who crashes his plane in the jungle while carrying a load of diamonds. He is rescued by a girl named Doreen (Julie London) who is the daughter of a missionary. Doreen’s fiancé Bob (Barton MacLane) becomes jealous of Jim and steals the diamonds, framing Jim for the theft. Jim is forced to flee into the jungle, where he befriends a gorilla named Nabonga.

Jim and Nabonga team up to survive in the jungle and also to clear Jim’s name. Along the way, they meet a group of hunters who are after Nabonga, and Jim must fight to protect his new friend. In the end, Jim and Nabonga are able to prove Jim’s innocence and return the stolen diamonds to their rightful owners. Jim also wins the heart of Doreen, who realizes that he is the man for her instead of Bob.

Overall, “Nabonga” is an exciting adventure movie with a unique twist of a man and his gorilla friend as the heroes of the story. It features some impressive jungle scenery and exciting action scenes, making it a fun movie to watch for fans of adventure films.

Directors:
Sam Newfield

Writer:
Fred Myton

Stars:
Buster Crabbe, Fifi D’Orsay, Barton MacLane

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In The Wake of the Bounty (1933)
3/5 (1)

“In the Wake of the Bounty” is a drama film directed by Charles Chauvel and released in 1933. The film is based on the real-life mutiny on the British ship HMS Bounty in 1789 and its aftermath.

The story follows the journey of a group of mutineers who have taken control of the ship and set their captain, William Bligh (played by Arthur Greenaway), adrift in a small boat with his loyal followers. The mutineers, led by Fletcher Christian (played by Mayne Lynton), decide to settle on a remote island in the South Pacific.

The film portrays the struggles of the mutineers as they try to build a new life on the island, while facing various challenges such as conflicts between themselves, the harsh environment, and the threat of British naval justice. Meanwhile, Captain Bligh and his crew embark on a perilous journey to seek help and bring the mutineers to justice.

The film explores themes of power, loyalty, betrayal, and survival in a compelling and realistic way. It features breathtaking cinematography of the South Pacific landscapes and impressive sea-faring action sequences. Overall, “In the Wake of the Bounty” is a captivating and dramatic retelling of one of the most infamous events in maritime history.

Directors:
Charles Chauvel

Writer:
Charles Chauvel

Stars:
Arthur Greenaway, Mayne Lynton, Errol Flynn

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Dick Tracy Detective (1945)
3/5 (1)

“Dick Tracy Detective” is a 1945 crime drama film directed by William A. Berke and starring Morgan Conway as the famous detective Dick Tracy.

The film follows the story of Dick Tracy as he investigates a series of crimes committed by a ruthless gang of criminals led by Steve “The Claw” Michel. The Claw and his gang have been terrorizing the city, committing robberies and murders without being caught.

As Tracy gets closer to unraveling the mystery behind The Claw, he discovers that the criminal mastermind has a personal vendetta against him. With the help of his trusted colleagues, Tracy sets out to bring The Claw to justice and put an end to his reign of terror.

Throughout the film, Tracy faces dangerous and thrilling challenges, including a high-speed car chase and a deadly confrontation with The Claw in a final showdown.

“Dick Tracy Detective” is a classic crime drama that captures the spirit of the iconic comic book character. Conway delivers a solid performance as Tracy, and the film’s action-packed plot and suspenseful twists keep viewers engaged until the end. The film remains a must-see for fans of crime dramas and the Dick Tracy franchise.

Directors:
William Berke

Writer:
Eric Taylor, Chester Gould

Stars:
Morgan Conway, Anne Jeffreys, Mike Mazurki

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Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome (1947)
3/5 (1)

“Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome” is a 1947 crime thriller film based on the popular comic strip character Dick Tracy. The film was directed by John Rawlins and stars Ralph Byrd as Dick Tracy, Anne Gwynne as Tess Trueheart, and Boris Karloff as Gruesome.

In the film, Dick Tracy is investigating a series of robberies and murders that appear to be connected to a notorious criminal named Gruesome. Gruesome is a mysterious and dangerous figure who has eluded the police for years, and Tracy is determined to bring him to justice.

As Tracy gets closer to Gruesome, he finds himself facing numerous dangers, including being held captive by the criminal mastermind and his henchmen. With the help of his loyal partner, Pat Patton, and his girlfriend Tess Trueheart, Tracy must use all of his detective skills to outsmart Gruesome and bring him to justice.

Throughout the film, Tracy and Gruesome engage in a thrilling game of cat-and-mouse, with Tracy always one step behind Gruesome. But in the end, Tracy is able to outwit Gruesome and bring him to justice, foiling his plans and saving the day.

“Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome” is a classic crime thriller filled with suspense, action, and intrigue, and is a must-see for fans of the genre and the Dick Tracy character.

Directors:
John Rawlins

Writer:
Robertson White, Eric Taylor, William Graffis

Stars:
Boris Karloff, Ralph Byrd, Anne Gwynne

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Danger Ahead (1935)
3/5 (1)

“Danger Ahead” is a 1935 adventure film directed by Albert Herman and starring Dick Foran, Ann Doran, and Gordon Westcott.

The film follows the story of Bob Martin, a young engineer who is hired by a construction company to oversee the building of a new railroad. As he works on the project, he discovers that a rival company is trying to sabotage the construction in order to secure the rights to build the railroad themselves.

Bob and his team must face many challenges and dangers as they try to complete the railroad on time, including floods, rockslides, and attacks from the rival company’s hired thugs. Along the way, Bob falls in love with the daughter of the owner of the construction company, but their romance is threatened by the sabotage and danger around them.

As the deadline for completion of the railroad approaches, Bob and his team must work tirelessly to overcome the obstacles in their way and finish the project on time. In the end, they are successful, and the new railroad is built, bringing prosperity to the area and thwarting the plans of the rival company.

“Danger Ahead” is a classic adventure film filled with action, romance, and suspense, and is a must-see for fans of the genre.

Directors:
Albert Herman

Writer:
Peter B. Kyne, Al Martin

Stars:
Lawrence Gray, Sheila Bromley, J. Farrell MacDonald

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Dick Tracy’s Dilemma (1947)
3/5 (1)

“Dick Tracy’s Dilemma” is a 1947 crime thriller film based on the popular comic strip character Dick Tracy. The film was directed by John Rawlins and stars Ralph Byrd as Dick Tracy, Lyle Latell as Pat Patton, and Kay Christopher as Tess Trueheart.

In the film, Dick Tracy is investigating a series of murders that seem to be linked to a new nightclub in town. As he delves deeper into the case, he discovers that the owner of the nightclub, Louie the Wolf, is using it as a front for his illegal activities.

Tracy’s investigation is complicated when he discovers that his own brother, Gordon, is involved with Louie and is being blackmailed. Tracy must navigate his loyalty to his family and his duty as a police officer while trying to bring Louie to justice.

Throughout the film, Tracy faces many obstacles and dangers, including being kidnapped and locked in a room with a ticking time bomb. But with the help of his loyal friend and partner Pat Patton, and his girlfriend Tess Trueheart, Tracy is able to solve the case and bring the criminals to justice.

“Dick Tracy’s Dilemma” is a classic crime drama filled with suspense, action, and intrigue, and is a must-see for fans of the genre and the Dick Tracy character.

Directors:
John Rawlins

Writer:
Robert Stephen Brode, Chester Gould

Stars:
Ralph Byrd, Lyle Latell, Kay Christopher

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Death in the Air (1936)
3/5 (1)

“Death in the Air” is a novel by Agatha Christie, first published in 1935 under the title “Death in the Clouds.” The novel features Christie’s famous detective, Hercule Poirot, and is set in a passenger plane traveling from Paris to Croydon.

The story begins with Poirot traveling on the same plane as a group of passengers, including a French moneylender named Madame Giselle, a famous actress named Jane Grey, a young doctor named Bryant, and a wealthy businessman named Hastings. During the flight, Madame Giselle suddenly dies from a poisoned dart, and it becomes clear that one of the other passengers on the plane must be the murderer.

Poirot sets out to investigate the murder and soon discovers a number of clues and suspects. Among them are a suspicious-looking woman who was seen leaving Madame Giselle’s seat just before the murder, a shady businessman who had borrowed money from the victim, and a young woman who had been acting strangely throughout the flight.

As Poirot delves deeper into the case, he begins to uncover a web of lies and deceit among the passengers, as well as a connection between Madame Giselle and a notorious criminal gang. With the help of his friend Hastings and the young doctor Bryant, Poirot ultimately identifies the murderer and brings them to justice.

“Death in the Air” is a classic Christie mystery with plenty of twists and turns, and features her trademark attention to detail and clever plotting. It is also notable for its unique setting on a passenger plane, which adds an extra layer of tension and claustrophobia to the story.

Directors:
Elmer Clifton

Writer:
Bernard McConville, Charles R. Condon

Stars:
Lona Andre, John Carroll, Leon Ames

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Bulldog Drummond’s Peril (1938)
4/5 (1)

“Bulldog Drummond’s Peril” is a 1938 adventure film directed by James P. Hogan and starring John Barrymore, John Howard, and Louise Campbell. The film is part of a series of movies based on the popular British detective character Bulldog Drummond, created by H.C. McNeile.

The plot of the film revolves around Drummond (Howard) and his friend Algy (Reginald Denny) who travel to Morocco to rescue a kidnapped millionaire, who has been taken by a gang of ruthless criminals led by the evil Mikhail Valdin (Barrymore). Along the way, they encounter various dangers and obstacles, including treacherous terrain and hostile locals.

As they pursue the kidnappers, Drummond and his companions must use all their wits and skills to outsmart the criminals and save the millionaire. The film features several action-packed set pieces, including a thrilling car chase and a dramatic showdown in a desert fortress.

“Bulldog Drummond’s Peril” was one of several films in the Bulldog Drummond series, which was popular during the 1930s and 1940s. The films were known for their fast-paced action and suspense, as well as their charismatic leading man.

Directors:
James P. Hogan

Writer:
Stuart Palmer, Herman C. McNeile

Stars:
John Barrymore, John Howard, Louise Campbell

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Attack! The Battle for New Britain (1944)
4/5 (1)

“Attack! Battle of New Britain” is a World War II film released in 1944, directed by Robert Pirosh and starring Jack Warden as the lead character, Lieutenant Carl Anderson.

The movie follows the story of Lieutenant Anderson and his platoon as they land on the island of New Britain in the South Pacific, in an effort to secure a strategic airfield from Japanese forces. The mission is dangerous and the odds are against them, but Anderson and his men are determined to succeed.

As they make their way through the jungle, Anderson and his platoon face numerous challenges, including intense enemy fire and the difficult terrain of the island. They also encounter a group of stranded American nurses, who they must protect from the advancing Japanese army.

Despite the obstacles, Anderson and his men remain resolute in their mission, and they engage in a series of intense battles with the Japanese forces. In a dramatic final battle, they manage to secure the airfield and drive the Japanese back, paving the way for further Allied victories in the South Pacific.

“Attack! Battle of New Britain” was made during the height of World War II, and it reflects the patriotism and determination of the era. The movie’s themes of bravery, sacrifice, and heroism in the face of danger continue to resonate with audiences today.

Directors:
Robert Presnell Sr.

Stars:
Leo Genn, Burgess Meredith, Anthony Veiller

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A Yank in Libya (1942)
3/5 (1)

“A Yank in Libya” is a World War II action film released in 1942, directed by Albert Herman and starring H.B. Warner as the lead character, Colonel John Wister.

The movie follows the story of Colonel Wister, an American soldier who is sent to Libya to assist the British forces in their fight against the German army. Wister is initially skeptical of the British and their tactics, but he soon comes to respect and admire his new allies. Together, they engage in a series of battles against the Germans, including a daring raid on a German airfield.

As the war in Libya intensifies, Wister becomes increasingly involved in the conflict and forms a close bond with the British soldiers under his command. However, he also faces personal challenges, including a romantic entanglement with a British nurse and a clash with a rival American officer.

Despite the obstacles, Wister remains committed to his mission and to his comrades in arms. In a dramatic final battle, he leads a successful attack against the German forces and helps to turn the tide of the war in favor of the Allies.

“A Yank in Libya” was a patriotic film made during World War II, designed to boost morale and support for the war effort. The movie’s themes of bravery, camaraderie, and sacrifice continue to resonate with audiences today.

Directors:
Albert Herman

Writer:
Arthur St. Claire, Sherman L. Lowe

Stars:
Stars
Walter Woolf King, Joan Woodbury, H.B. Warner

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Africa Screams (1949)
4.5/5 (2)

“Africa Screams” is a comedy film released in 1949 and directed by Charles Barton. The film stars the comedy duo of Bud Abbott and Lou Costello, as well as Clyde Beatty, Frank Buck, and Max and Buddy Baer.

The plot follows Bud and Lou as they work in a bookstore and dream of adventure and riches. They are approached by a shady businessman who convinces them to join an expedition to Africa in search of a lost diamond mine. Unbeknownst to them, the businessman plans to steal the diamonds for himself.

Once in Africa, Bud and Lou encounter a series of mishaps and comedic situations, as they try to navigate the dangerous terrain and avoid wild animals. They also meet up with real-life wild animal trainers Clyde Beatty and Frank Buck, who help them out of several sticky situations.

As the expedition continues, Bud and Lou become suspicious of their employer’s motives and begin to unravel his plan. They ultimately thwart his scheme and return to America with a valuable diamond, but not before encountering one final hilarious obstacle.

The film is a classic example of Abbott and Costello’s trademark humor, featuring their comedic banter, physical gags, and funny reactions to the dangerous situations they find themselves in. The inclusion of real-life animal trainers and exotic African settings adds to the film’s appeal and creates a unique blend of comedy and adventure.

Directors:
Charles Barton

Writer:
Earl Baldwin, Martin Ragaway, Leonard Stern

Stars:
Bud Abbott, Lou Costello, Clyde Beatty

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20,000 Leagues Under the Sea (1916)
4/5 (2)

“20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” is a classic science fiction novel written by Jules Verne in 1870. The novel has been adapted into various movies and TV series. The 1916 silent film version of the novel was directed by Stuart Paton and stars Allen Holubar as Captain Nemo.

The film follows the adventures of Professor Pierre Aronnax, his assistant Conseil, and the harpooner Ned Land, as they embark on a journey to search for a sea monster that has been terrorizing ships in the ocean. They soon discover that the creature is actually a submarine, the Nautilus, captained by the mysterious and enigmatic Captain Nemo.

The professor and his companions are taken aboard the Nautilus and shown the wonders of the undersea world. They witness exotic creatures, underwater volcanoes, and explore shipwrecks. However, they also witness the darker side of Nemo’s personality, as he ruthlessly attacks ships and refuses to show mercy to his enemies.

As they spend more time aboard the Nautilus, Aronnax and his companions begin to question Nemo’s motives and seek a way to escape. Eventually, they are able to overpower the crew and sabotage the Nautilus, forcing Nemo to flee.

The film ends with the professor and his companions being rescued, while Nemo is seen going down with his beloved submarine, taking his secrets and mysteries to the depths of the ocean.

Directors:
Stuart Paton

Writer:
Jules Verne, Stuart Paton

Stars:
Allen Holubar, Dan Hanlon, Edna Pendleton

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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)