Black & White Movies

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The Phantom Planet (1961)
3/5 (1)

“The Phantom Planet” is a 1961 science fiction film directed by William Marshall and starring Dean Fredericks, Coleen Gray, and Anthony Dexter.

The story follows an astronaut named Captain Frank Chapman (played by Dean Fredericks), who is on a mission to investigate a mysterious asteroid that has been spotted near Earth. However, while on the mission, Chapman’s spacecraft encounters a strange force that causes it to crash-land on the asteroid. Chapman emerges from the wreckage to find himself on a miniature planet with a breathable atmosphere and a race of tiny people who are at war with a race of giants.

Chapman soon learns that he has been reduced in size and that the planet is being bombarded by deadly radiation. In order to save himself and the tiny people who have befriended him, Chapman must find a way to escape the planet and return to Earth. Along the way, he battles the giant aliens and tries to unravel the secrets of the planet and its strange inhabitants.

“The Phantom Planet” is notable for its low budget and its use of special effects, which include miniature models and green screen technology. The film also features a memorable musical score by prolific composer Ronald Stein. While not a critical success at the time of its release, “The Phantom Planet” has since become a cult classic, known for its quirky characters, imaginative storyline, and cheesy special effects.

Directors:
William Marshall

Writer:
William Telaak, Fred De Gorter, Fred Gebhardt

Stars:
Dean Fredericks, Coleen Gray, Anthony Dexter

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The Admiral Was A Lady (1950)
3/5 (1)

“The Admiral Was a Lady” is a 1950 comedy film directed by Albert S. Rogell and starring Edmond O’Brien, Wanda Hendrix, and Rudy Vallee.

The story follows a group of World War II veterans who decide to start their own airline company. However, they are struggling to make ends meet and are in danger of going bankrupt. One of the veterans, now a civilian, is a former Navy admiral named Matt Halliday (played by Edmond O’Brien). To help the struggling airline, Matt poses as a woman and takes a job as a flight attendant. He adopts the persona of “Admiral”, a tough and no-nonsense woman who quickly becomes popular with the passengers.

The plot thickens when Matt’s former Navy buddy, Commander Menard (played by Rudy Vallee), shows up and threatens to expose Matt’s secret. Meanwhile, Matt finds himself falling in love with his fellow flight attendant, Julie Morgan (played by Wanda Hendrix).

As the airline’s financial troubles escalate, Matt must use all his wit and charm to save the company and win Julie’s heart. The film is a light-hearted romantic comedy that touches on themes of gender roles and the challenges of post-war readjustment.

“The Admiral Was a Lady” is notable for its strong performances, particularly from O’Brien, who delivers a hilarious and convincing portrayal of a man pretending to be a woman. The film also features a delightful musical score and some breathtaking shots of the American Southwest. Overall, it is an enjoyable and entertaining film that is sure to please fans of classic Hollywood comedies.

Directors:
Albert S. Rogell

Writer:
John O’Dea, Sidney Salkow

Stars:
Edmond O’Brien, Wanda Hendrix, Rudy Vallee

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The Big Show (1936)
3/5 (1)

“The Big Show” is a 1936 Western film directed by Mack V. Wright and starring Gene Autry, Smiley Burnette, and Kay Hughes.

The story follows Gene Autry, who plays himself, as he returns to his hometown to visit his friend Tom Ford, a local rancher. Tom is struggling to keep his ranch running, as he is being forced off his land by a group of local villains led by Hank Liddell. Liddell and his gang are trying to take over the town and its valuable water supply.

Gene, along with his sidekick Frog Millhouse (played by Smiley Burnette), decide to help Tom save his ranch and the town. They team up with a group of local ranchers and farmers to fight against Liddell and his gang. Along the way, Gene also falls in love with Tom’s daughter, Marion (played by Kay Hughes).

The film features several musical performances by Autry, including the popular song “The Last Round-Up”. As the final showdown approaches, Gene and his allies must use all their wits and courage to defeat Liddell and his gang and save the town.

“The Big Show” is a classic example of the Western genre, with plenty of action, romance, and music. It is notable for its strong sense of community and the way it portrays the struggle of small farmers and ranchers against powerful and corrupt forces.

Directors:
Mack V. Wright, Joseph Kane

Writer:
Dorrell McGowan, Stuart E. McGowan

Stars:
Gene Autry, Smiley Burnette, Kay Hughes

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The Green Glove (1952)
3/5 (1)

“The Green Glove” is a 1952 adventure film directed by Rudolph Maté and starring Glenn Ford and Geraldine Brooks. The film follows the story of a World War II veteran named Michael Blake, who becomes embroiled in a dangerous treasure hunt in post-war France.

Blake (played by Ford) is searching for a legendary glove made of emeralds, which is said to have been hidden during the war. His search leads him to a small town in France, where he meets a mysterious woman named Christelle (played by Brooks) who claims to have knowledge of the glove’s whereabouts.

As Blake and Christelle embark on their quest, they encounter a variety of dangerous characters, including a band of thieves who are also searching for the glove. Along the way, they are pursued by the police, who suspect them of being involved in a recent robbery.

As the plot thickens, Blake and Christelle must use all their wits and resources to outsmart their enemies and uncover the truth about the glove’s location. The film builds to a thrilling climax as the characters race to find the treasure before it falls into the wrong hands.

“The Green Glove” is a suspenseful and exciting adventure film that features stunning French locations and a talented cast. Ford is charismatic as the film’s hero, and Brooks brings a touch of mystery and intrigue to her role. The film’s fast-paced action and intricate plot twists make it a must-see for fans of classic adventure movies.

Directors:
Rudolph Maté

Writer:
Charles Bennett

Stars:
Glenn Ford, Geraldine Brooks, Cedric Hardwicke

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The Kennel Murder Case (1933)
3/5 (1)

“The Kennel Murder Case” is a 1933 American mystery film directed by Michael Curtiz and starring William Powell and Mary Astor. The film is based on the novel of the same name by S.S. Van Dine and follows the story of Philo Vance, a wealthy amateur detective who is called in to investigate a murder at a dog show.

The film opens with the murder of Archer Coe, a wealthy businessman and dog enthusiast who is found dead in his study. The primary suspect is his jealous ex-wife, but Vance (played by Powell) believes there is more to the case than meets the eye. With the help of his faithful butler, Ernest (played by Eugene Pallette), Vance sets out to solve the mystery.

As Vance investigates, he encounters a cast of eccentric characters, including Coe’s mistress, his business partner, and a group of dog enthusiasts who are all potential suspects. The case becomes more complicated when another murder occurs at the dog show, and Vance must use his intellect and deductive reasoning to unravel the truth.

“The Kennel Murder Case” is a classic whodunit that features intricate plotting, witty dialogue, and colorful characters. Powell’s portrayal of Vance is charming and suave, and the film’s clever twists and turns keep the audience engaged until the very end. The film is a must-see for fans of classic mysteries and detective stories.

Directors:
Michael Curtiz

Writer:
S.S. Van Dine, Robert N. Lee, Peter Milne

Stars:
William Powell, Mary Astor, Eugene Pallette

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Three Blondes in His Life (1961)
3/5 (1)

“Three Blondes in His Life” is a 1961 crime thriller directed by Leon Chooluck and starring Jock Mahoney, Jo Morrow, and Merry Anders. The film follows the story of a private investigator named Mike Farrell who becomes entangled in a dangerous web of deception and murder.

Mike Farrell (played by Mahoney) is hired by a wealthy businessman to investigate his daughter’s fiancé, who is suspected of embezzlement. As Mike delves deeper into the case, he discovers that the fiancé is actually innocent and that the real culprit is the businessman’s secretary, a beautiful blonde named Lila (played by Anders).

However, before Mike can apprehend Lila, he is sidetracked by the arrival of another blonde, a former flame named Doris (played by Morrow), who needs his help to clear her name in a murder case. As Mike juggles both cases, he finds himself drawn to the mysterious and alluring Lila, even as he begins to suspect her involvement in a larger criminal conspiracy.

As the plot thickens, Mike becomes embroiled in a deadly game of cat and mouse, in which he must outwit both Lila and her criminal cohorts to stay alive. Along the way, he uncovers a shocking conspiracy involving corrupt businessmen and organized crime.

“Three Blondes in His Life” is a fast-paced and suspenseful thriller that showcases the talents of its cast and director. The film’s intricate plot, clever twists, and charismatic characters keep audiences engaged and guessing until the very end.

Directors:
Leon Chooluck

Writer:
George Moskov, William Francis

Stars:
Jock Mahoney, Greta Thyssen, Jesse White

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The File On Thelma Jordan (1950)
3/5 (1)

“The File on Thelma Jordan” is a 1950 film noir directed by Robert Siodmak and starring Barbara Stanwyck and Wendell Corey. The film follows the story of Thelma Jordan, a seductive and mysterious woman who becomes entangled in a web of deceit and murder.

Thelma Jordan (played by Stanwyck) is a wealthy woman who seeks the help of Assistant District Attorney Cleve Marshall (played by Corey) when she discovers that her aunt’s estate is being embezzled. However, Cleve is more interested in Thelma than the case, and the two begin an illicit affair.

As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Thelma is not the innocent victim she first appeared to be. She is actually involved in a criminal scheme and is using Cleve to cover her tracks. When her ex-lover, Tony Laredo, shows up and threatens to expose her, Thelma is forced to take drastic action, leading to a tragic outcome.

Throughout the film, the audience is kept in suspense as the true nature of Thelma’s character is slowly revealed. The film is a classic example of film noir, with its use of shadows, moody lighting, and morally ambiguous characters.

“The File on Thelma Jordan” is a gripping thriller that showcases the talents of its lead actors and director. The film’s complex storyline and unexpected twists and turns keep audiences on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Directors:
Robert Siodmak

Writer:
Marty Holland, Ketti Frings

Stars:
Barbara Stanwyck, Wendell Corey, Paul Kelly

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The Girl Was Young (Young and Innocent) (1937)
3/5 (1)

“The Girl Was Young” (also known as “Young and Innocent”) is a 1937 British thriller film directed by Alfred Hitchcock, based on the novel “A Shilling for Candles” by Josephine Tey. The film follows the story of Robert Tisdall, a man wrongly accused of murder, and Erica Burgoyne, a young girl who helps him clear his name.

The film opens with the murder of famous actress Christine Clay in a seaside town. Robert Tisdall (played by Nova Pilbeam) is the last person seen with her and is quickly suspected of the crime. While running from the police, Robert meets Erica Burgoyne (played by Pilbeam as well), a young girl who believes in his innocence and helps him evade the authorities.

Together, they set out to prove Robert’s innocence and uncover the true killer. As they investigate, they encounter a variety of suspects, including a jealous ex-husband, a mysterious woman in black, and a wealthy businessman with a dark secret. Along the way, they must navigate a series of perilous situations, including a daring escape from a crowded courtroom and a dramatic chase through the woods.

Ultimately, Robert and Erica are able to identify the real killer and clear Robert’s name. The film ends with the two of them walking off into the distance, happy and relieved to have put the ordeal behind them. “The Girl Was Young” is a suspenseful and engaging thriller that showcases Hitchcock’s trademark style and storytelling abilities.

Directors:
Alfred Hitchcock

Writer:
Josephine Tey, Charles Bennett, Edwin Greenwood

Stars:
Nova Pilbeam, Derrick De Marney, Percy Marmont

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The 39 Steps (1935)
4.5/5 (2)

“The 39 Steps” is a 1935 British thriller film directed by Alfred Hitchcock and based on the novel of the same name by John Buchan. The movie follows the story of Richard Hannay, a man who becomes embroiled in a web of espionage and murder after a chance encounter with a spy.

The plot centers around Hannay, played by Robert Donat, who is falsely accused of the murder of a spy he met at a music hall. Hannay goes on the run and becomes involved in a dangerous conspiracy involving a secret organization called “The 39 Steps.” Along the way, he meets a woman named Pamela, played by Madeleine Carroll, who becomes his reluctant ally in his quest to clear his name and uncover the truth behind the conspiracy.

The film is notable for its innovative use of suspense and tension, as well as its clever and intricate plot. Hitchcock employs his signature techniques, including elaborate camera work and masterful editing, to create a thrilling and entertaining cinematic experience.

“The 39 Steps” has become a classic of the thriller genre and is widely regarded as one of Hitchcock’s best films. It has been remade several times, but the original remains a favorite among film buffs and Hitchcock fans.

Directors:
Alfred Hitchcock

Writer:
John Buchan, Charles Bennett, Ian Hay

Stars:
Robert Donat, Madeleine Carroll, Lucie Mannheim

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The Cat and the Canary (1927)
4/5 (1)

“The Cat and the Canary” is a 1927 horror comedy film directed by Paul Leni and based on the play of the same name by John Willard. The movie takes place in a creepy old mansion where a group of people have gathered for the reading of a will.

The plot revolves around the character of Annabelle West, who has inherited a large fortune from her eccentric uncle. However, there is a catch – Annabelle must spend the night in the mansion along with a group of relatives who may also be in line for the inheritance. If anything happens to Annabelle, the inheritance goes to her other relatives.

As the night progresses, strange things begin to happen, and the guests become increasingly paranoid and suspicious of one another. They are also stalked by a mysterious figure known as “the Cat,” who may or may not be a real person.

The film is notable for its use of atmospheric lighting and camera work, which help to create a sense of dread and unease throughout the movie. The cast is also strong, with Laura La Plante delivering a standout performance as Annabelle West.

Overall, “The Cat and the Canary” is a classic example of early horror cinema and remains a beloved film among fans of the genre.

Directors:
Paul Leni

Writer:
John Willard, Robert F. Hill, Alfred A. Coh

Stars:
Laura La Plante, Creighton Hale, Forrest Stanley

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The Eye Creatures (1965)
3/5 (1)

“The Eye Creatures” is a 1965 science fiction film directed by Larry Buchanan and is also known as “Attack of the Eye Creatures.” The movie is a low-budget B-movie about a group of aliens who land on Earth and begin to terrorize a small town.

The plot centers around a group of young people who stumble upon the aliens and try to warn the authorities. However, the authorities don’t believe their story, and the group is forced to take matters into their own hands to try and stop the aliens.

The aliens are depicted as small, green creatures with large, bulging eyes and a tendency to attack humans. The special effects are low budget and often cheesy, with the aliens looking more like hand puppets than menacing extraterrestrial creatures.

Despite its flaws, “The Eye Creatures” has become something of a cult classic among fans of B-movies and has gained a reputation as one of the best/worst science fiction films of all time. The film’s low budget and amateurish production values only add to its charm, and it remains a popular choice for late-night movie marathons and cult film festivals.

Directors:
Larry Buchanan

Writer:
Larry Buchanan

Stars:
John Ashley, Cynthia Hull, Warren Hammack

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The Last Man on Earth (1964)
3/5 (1)

“The Last Man on Earth” is a 1964 science fiction horror film directed by Ubaldo Ragona and Sidney Salkow. The movie is based on Richard Matheson’s 1954 novel “I Am Legend.” It stars Vincent Price as Dr. Robert Morgan, a scientist who is the only survivor of a global pandemic that has turned everyone else into vampire-like creatures.

The film begins with a series of flashbacks showing how the world was affected by the pandemic. Dr. Morgan is shown burying his wife and child and then working tirelessly to find a cure for the virus. He becomes the last man on Earth after the pandemic has wiped out the rest of humanity, and he spends his days scavenging for supplies and killing the “vampires” that emerge at night.

As time goes on, Dr. Morgan’s mental and physical health deteriorate, and he becomes increasingly isolated and desperate. He believes that he is the only human left alive and longs for companionship. However, his attempts to connect with other survivors are met with violence and betrayal, and he is forced to continue his solitary existence.

In the end, Dr. Morgan is captured and sentenced to death by a group of surviving vampires who have developed a new society based on their own set of values. The film ends with Dr. Morgan’s execution, leaving the audience to wonder about the fate of the world and the possibility of any other survivors.

Directors:
Ubaldo Ragona, Sidney Salkow

Writer:
Richard Matheson, William F. Leicester, Furio M. Monetti

Stars:
Vincent Price, Franca Bettoia, Emma Danieli

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The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920)
4/5 (1)

“The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari” is a silent German expressionist film, directed by Robert Wiene and released in 1920. The film tells the story of a young man named Francis who recounts his experience with a sinister hypnotist named Dr. Caligari.

In the film, Francis and his friend Alan visit a fair where Dr. Caligari is exhibiting his somnambulist, Cesare, who has been asleep for twenty-three years. Caligari claims that Cesare can predict the future, and when Alan asks how long he has to live, Cesare predicts that he will be dead by dawn.

Later that night, Alan is found dead, and Francis becomes obsessed with finding the murderer. He suspects that Caligari and Cesare are responsible and starts investigating them. His investigations lead him to discover that Caligari is actually the director of a mental institution and that Cesare is one of his patients.

Francis eventually discovers that Caligari has been using Cesare to commit a series of murders in the town. He confronts Caligari, who reveals that he is insane and that he has been using Cesare as a tool to carry out his evil deeds. In the end, the police catch Caligari and Cesare dies.

The film is known for its use of expressionist visuals, such as distorted and stylized sets, and the use of lighting to create mood and atmosphere. It is considered a classic of German expressionist cinema and a landmark in the history of horror films.

Directors:
Robert Wiene

Writer:
Carl Mayer, Hans Janowitz

Stars:
Werner Krauss, Conrad Veidt, Friedrich Feher

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The Beatniks (1960)
3/5 (1)

“The Beatniks” is a 1960 American film directed by Paul Frees and written by Arthur C. Pierce. The film is a low-budget crime drama that explores the seedy world of beatnik culture in 1960s America.

The story follows a group of beatniks, led by the charismatic and manipulative Eddie (Tony Travis), who use their poetry and music to swindle unsuspecting victims. One night, they are involved in a hit-and-run accident, and Eddie convinces the group to go on the run to avoid the police.

As they travel across the country, tensions rise within the group, and Eddie’s manipulative and abusive behavior becomes increasingly apparent. The other members of the group, including the troubled young musician Nick (Peter Breck), begin to question their involvement with Eddie and his criminal activities.

“The Beatniks” is a product of its time, and the film’s portrayal of beatnik culture is often exaggerated and stereotypical. However, it does offer a fascinating glimpse into the counterculture of the early 1960s and the disillusionment and dissatisfaction of many young people at the time.

The film’s soundtrack, featuring music by jazz saxophonist Charles “Charlie” Mariano, is a highlight and captures the cool, improvisational style of the beatnik era. Overall, “The Beatniks” is an interesting and entertaining film that provides a unique perspective on a fascinating period in American cultural history.

Directors:
Paul Frees

Writer:
Paul Frees

Stars:
Tony Travis, Karen Kadler, Peter Breck

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The Blood Of Jesus (1941)
3/5 (1)

“The Blood of Jesus” is a 1941 American film directed by Spencer Williams, who also wrote and produced the film. The movie is a spiritual drama that explores the concept of redemption through the story of a young couple in rural Texas.

The story revolves around a young woman named Martha (Cathryn Caviness), who is accidentally shot by her husband, Ruffus (Spencer Williams), while they are out hunting. As Martha lays dying, her spirit is transported to a crossroads where she is faced with the decision to either go with the angel of death or return to the land of the living.

Martha chooses to return to the world of the living, and her journey towards redemption begins. The film explores themes of faith, forgiveness, and the power of redemption as Martha tries to find her way back to the path of righteousness.

As Martha struggles with her faith, her husband Ruffus is tempted by the devil and is lured into a life of sin. The film also explores the idea of the battle between good and evil and how our choices can determine our ultimate fate.

“The Blood of Jesus” is a poignant and powerful film that explores complex themes of faith, redemption, and morality. It is considered a classic of African American cinema and has been praised for its authentic portrayal of rural Texas life and its moving exploration of spirituality.

Directors:
Spencer Williams

Writer:
Spencer Williams, Langston Hughes

Stars:
Cathryn Caviness, Spencer Williams, Juanita Riley

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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)