Black & White Movies

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Night of the Living Dead (1968)
4/5 (1)

“Night of the Living Dead” is a classic horror film released in 1968, directed by George A. Romero. The movie follows a group of people who are trapped in a rural Pennsylvania farmhouse during a zombie apocalypse.

The movie opens with siblings Barbara (Judith O’Dea) and Johnny (Russell Streiner) visiting their father’s grave in a cemetery. They are attacked by a strange man who appears to be a zombie, and Johnny is killed while trying to fend him off. Barbara manages to escape and takes refuge in a nearby farmhouse.

There, she meets Ben (Duane Jones), a resourceful and pragmatic man who has also taken shelter in the house. They are soon joined by other survivors, including a young couple named Tom (Keith Wayne) and Judy (Judith Ridley), and a family consisting of Harry (Karl Hardman), his wife Helen (Marilyn Eastman), and their daughter Karen (Kyra Schon).

As the night progresses, the group must fend off increasing numbers of zombies who are trying to break into the house. Tensions rise between the survivors as they argue about the best course of action, and they are further tested when Karen, who was bitten by a zombie earlier in the day, reanimates and attacks her mother.

In the end, Ben is the sole survivor, but he is shot and killed by a posse of zombie hunters who mistake him for one of the undead.

“Night of the Living Dead” is notable for its groundbreaking use of horror and gore, as well as its commentary on race relations in America, with Ben being portrayed as a strong and capable African American man at a time when such portrayals were rare in mainstream cinema.

Directors:
George A. Romero

Writer:
John A. Russo, George A. Romero

Stars:
Duane Jones, Judith O’Dea, Karl Hardman

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Nosferatu (1922)
4/5 (1)

“Nosferatu” is a silent horror film directed by German filmmaker F.W. Murnau and released in 1922. The film is an adaptation of Bram Stoker’s novel “Dracula,” but due to copyright issues, the names and certain details were changed.

The plot revolves around a young real estate agent named Hutter, who is sent to Transylvania to sell a property to a wealthy nobleman named Count Orlok. Hutter’s journey is fraught with danger and he soon discovers that Orlok is actually a vampire.

When Hutter returns home, Orlok follows him and begins to terrorize the town, preying on its inhabitants. Hutter’s wife, Ellen, becomes convinced that she can defeat Orlok by sacrificing herself and offering him her blood.

In the climactic scene, Orlok is lured into Ellen’s bedroom and begins to feed on her, but the sunlight suddenly streams in through the window and he is destroyed.

The film is notable for its eerie atmosphere, striking visuals, and groundbreaking use of shadows and light. It has been highly influential in the horror genre, and is widely regarded as a classic of German Expressionist cinema.

Directors:
F.W. Murnau

Writer:
Henrik Galeen, Bram Stoker

Stars:
Max Schreck, Alexander Granach, Gustav von Wangenheim

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Neighbors (1920)
4/5 (1)

“Neighbors” is a short story by American author and humorist, Robert Benchley. It was first published in the New Yorker magazine in 1920.

The story is about a man who is trying to get some work done in his apartment, but he is constantly interrupted by the noise coming from his neighbor’s apartment next door. The neighbor is a violinist who practices for hours on end every day, and the noise is driving the man insane.

The man tries various tactics to get his neighbor to stop playing the violin, but nothing seems to work. He tries talking to him, banging on the walls, and even playing his own gramophone at full volume to drown out the sound of the violin.

Finally, the man decides to take drastic action and calls the police to report the noise. When the police arrive, they find that the neighbor has been dead for several days, and the violin has been playing on a phonograph that was left on repeat.

In the end, the man realizes that he was the only one who could hear the noise, and that he had been driven to the brink of insanity by his own imagination. The story is a humorous take on the concept of “the grass is always greener on the other side,” and the idea that we often complain about things that we don’t fully understand.

Directors:
Edward F. Cline, Buster Keaton

Writer:

Buster Keaton, Edward F. Cline

Stars:
Buster Keaton, Edward F. Cline, Jack Duffy

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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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Nevada City (1941)
3/5 (1)

“Nevada City” (1941), directed by Roy Thornton and starring Roy Rogers and Gabby Hayes. The movie is set in Nevada City, California, during the late 1800s and follows the conflict between a railroad owner and a stage line owner, who are both being targeted by a group of outlaws seeking to undermine their operations.

Roy Rogers plays a federal agent who is sent to Nevada City to investigate the sabotage and bring the outlaws to justice. Gabby Hayes plays his sidekick, who helps him in his investigations and in mediating the conflict between the two sides.

As the story progresses, Roy and Gabby encounter a number of obstacles and challenges, including gunfights, ambushes, and a romantic interest played by Joan Woodbury. In the end, they are able to expose the bad guys and restore peace to Nevada City.

The movie features Roy Rogers and Gabby Hayes’ signature blend of action, humor, and music, which were popular with audiences of the time. It also showcases the rugged terrain and frontier atmosphere of Nevada City during the late 1800s, which were typical of many western movies made during that era.

Directors:
Joseph Kane

Writer:
James R. Webb

Stars:
Roy Rogers, George ‘Gabby’ Hayes, Sally Payne

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M (1931)
4/5 (1)

“M” is a German thriller film released in 1931, directed by Fritz Lang and starring Peter Lorre, Ellen Widmann, and Inge Landgut. The film tells the story of a child murderer who terrorizes the city of Berlin, and the efforts of both the police and the criminal underworld to capture him.

The film opens with the murder of a young girl, and we see the impact that the crime has on the city as panic and fear spread throughout the community. The police launch an intensive investigation, but their efforts are hampered by the murderer’s cunning and elusive nature.

Meanwhile, the criminal underworld also takes notice of the killings, and a group of gangsters form their own search party to find the murderer and bring him to justice. When the murderer is eventually caught, he is put on trial, and we see the conflict between the desire for justice and the need for compassion and mercy.

Peter Lorre delivers a chilling and unforgettable performance as the child murderer, portraying him as a disturbed and tortured individual who is unable to control his own impulses. Fritz Lang’s masterful direction creates a dark and suspenseful atmosphere that captures the anxiety and paranoia of a city in crisis.

The film explores themes of crime and punishment, justice and mercy, and the uneasy relationship between the law and the criminal underworld. “M” is widely regarded as a classic of German cinema and a landmark in the history of thriller films.

Directors:
Fritz Lang

Writer:
Thea von Harbou, Fritz Lang, Egon Jacobsohn

Stars:
Peter Lorre, Ellen Widmann, Inge Landgut

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Metropolis (1925)
4/5 (1)

“Metropolis” is a silent science-fiction film released in 1927, directed by Fritz Lang and produced by UFA. The film stars Gustav Fröhlich, Brigitte Helm, Alfred Abel, and Rudolf Klein-Rogge.

The story takes place in a dystopian future where the wealthy live in luxurious skyscrapers while the working-class toil away in underground factories. The city’s ruler, Joh Fredersen (played by Alfred Abel), seeks to maintain his power by exploiting the workers and suppressing any dissent.

When Joh’s son, Freder (played by Gustav Fröhlich), falls in love with a working-class woman named Maria (played by Brigitte Helm), he becomes aware of the harsh conditions that the workers face. He joins forces with Maria and a mad scientist named Rotwang (played by Rudolf Klein-Rogge) to overthrow his father’s regime and bring about a more equitable society.

The film features groundbreaking special effects and intricate set designs that create a vivid and immersive world. It explores themes of class struggle, social inequality, and the dangers of unchecked technological progress.

“Metropolis” was initially a critical and commercial failure, but it has since become a landmark in the history of cinema and an enduring influence on science-fiction storytelling.

Directors:
Fritz Lang

Writer:
Thea von Harbou, Fritz Lang

Stars:
Brigitte Helm, Alfred Abel, Gustav Fröhlich

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Money Madness (1948)
3/5 (1)

“Money Madness” is a crime drama film released in 1948, directed by Sam Newfield and produced by Sigmund Neufeld. The film stars Hugh Beaumont, Frances Rafferty, Harlan Warde, and Robert Clarke.

The story follows a successful businessman named David Carroll (played by Hugh Beaumont) who becomes obsessed with making more money. His obsession drives him to neglect his wife, Julie (played by Frances Rafferty), and his young son, Tommy (played by Tommy Ivo). David begins to engage in risky investments, putting his family’s future at risk.

Things take a turn for the worse when David’s business partner, Phil Vernon (played by Harlan Warde), embezzles a large sum of money and frames David for the crime. David is arrested and faces a lengthy prison sentence.

With her husband behind bars, Julie struggles to support herself and their son. She eventually learns the truth about Phil’s deception and works to clear David’s name. In the end, David is exonerated and reunited with his family.

The film highlights the dangers of greed and the importance of family and honesty.

Directors:
Sam Newfield

Writer:
Al Martin

Stars:
Hugh Beaumont, Frances Rafferty, Harlan Warde

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Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939)
4/5 (1)

“Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” is a 1939 American political comedy-drama film directed by Frank Capra and starring James Stewart, Jean Arthur, and Claude Rains. The film tells the story of Jefferson Smith (James Stewart), a naive and idealistic young man who is appointed to the United States Senate by a corrupt political machine.

At first, Smith is overwhelmed by the majesty and history of the Senate, but soon discovers that the political system is rife with corruption and graft. Smith’s attempts to expose the corruption are met with resistance from the political machine, led by Senator Joseph Paine (Claude Rains), who initially took Smith under his wing.

Smith is aided by his cynical and tough-talking assistant, Clarissa Saunders (Jean Arthur), who helps him navigate the treacherous waters of Washington politics. Together, they launch a filibuster on the Senate floor to try to prevent the corrupt bill from being passed.

Throughout the film, Smith’s integrity and idealism are contrasted with the greed and corruption of the political system. The film also portrays the power of the media and the importance of a free press in holding politicians accountable.

In the end, Smith’s filibuster captures the attention of the public, and his idealism and honesty win out over the corrupt political machine. The film is a classic example of Capra’s optimistic and patriotic style, with its celebration of American values and democracy. It was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and remains a beloved classic of American cinema.

Directors:
Frank Capra

Writer:
Sidney Buchman, Lewis R. Foster, Myles Connolly

Stars:
James Stewart, Lean Arthur, Claude Rains

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My Man Godfrey (1936)
4/5 (1)

“My Man Godfrey” is a 1936 American screwball comedy film directed by Gregory La Cava and starring William Powell and Carole Lombard. The film tells the story of a wealthy but eccentric family, the Bullocks, who take on a new butler, Godfrey (William Powell), who turns out to be much more than he appears.

Godfrey is a well-educated and cultured man who has fallen on hard times and is living as a homeless man. When he is discovered by Irene Bullock (Carole Lombard), she hires him to be the family’s butler. Godfrey is initially reluctant, but eventually agrees to the job, finding himself in the middle of the Bullocks’ wacky and unpredictable world.

As Godfrey navigates the quirky and dysfunctional family, he becomes particularly close to the strong-willed Irene, who develops a crush on him. However, Godfrey must also contend with Irene’s jealous sister, Cornelia (Gail Patrick), who tries to sabotage their relationship.

Throughout the film, Godfrey’s wit and intelligence shine through, even as he navigates the various zany situations thrown his way by the Bullocks. The film also tackles issues of class and social status, as Godfrey’s humble origins contrast with the extravagant wealth of the Bullocks.

In the end, Godfrey is revealed to be much more than just a butler, and his true identity and motivations are uncovered. The film is a classic example of a screwball comedy, with its fast-paced dialogue, physical comedy, and over-the-top characters. It was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and remains a beloved classic of the genre.

Directors:
Gregory La Cava

Writer:
Morrie Ryskind, Eric Hatch, Zoe Akins

Stars:
William Powell, Carole Lombard, Alice Brady

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My Favorite Brunette (1947)
3/5 (1)

“My Favorite Brunette” is a 1947 American comedy film directed by Elliott Nugent and starring Bob Hope and Dorothy Lamour. The film tells the story of Ronnie Jackson (Bob Hope), a baby photographer, who dreams of becoming a detective like his idol, Sam McCloud (Alan Ladd).

One day, a beautiful woman named Carlotta Montay (Dorothy Lamour) enters his studio and asks for his help. She wants him to deliver a roll of film to her boyfriend, who is a private investigator, but Ronnie accidentally gets the wrong film and finds himself in the middle of a murder plot.

Ronnie is mistaken for the private investigator and is kidnapped by a group of criminals who want him to find a valuable item hidden in the mansion of the wealthy Baron Montay (Reginald Denny). With the help of Carlotta, Ronnie tries to uncover the truth and save his own life.

Throughout the film, Ronnie imagines himself as a hard-boiled detective, with Lamour playing the role of his femme fatale. The movie is filled with comedic moments and witty one-liners from Bob Hope, making it a classic example of a film noir spoof. In the end, Ronnie manages to save the day and gets the girl, but not before enduring a series of comical misadventures.

Directors:
Elliott Nugent

Writer:
Edmund Beloin, Jack Rose, Bob Hope

Stars:
Bob Hope, Dorothy Lamour, Peter Lorre

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My Wife’s Relations (1922)
3/5 (1)

My Wife’s Relations is a silent comedy film directed by and starring Buster Keaton. The film was released in 1922 and follows the story of a newlywed couple, Buster and his wife, who have to deal with her large and overbearing family.

The film begins with Buster and his wife getting married and driving away in their car. Along the way, they encounter a series of mishaps, including a flat tire, which leads them to seek help from her family.

Upon arriving, Buster is greeted by a large and rowdy group of in-laws who make it clear that they don’t think much of him. He struggles to fit in and win their approval, but their antics and constant interference make it nearly impossible.

Despite the challenges, Buster’s love for his wife never wavers, and he eventually comes up with a plan to win her family over. He stages a fake robbery, which leads to a series of hilarious misunderstandings and ultimately brings the family together.

The film is known for its physical comedy and Keaton’s impressive stunts, including a memorable scene where he jumps onto a moving train. It also explores themes of family dynamics and the challenges of fitting in with a new family.

Overall, My Wife’s Relations is a classic comedy that showcases Buster Keaton’s talent as a filmmaker and comedian. It is a must-see for fans of silent film and comedy.

Directors:
Edward F. Cline, Buster Keaton

Writer:
Buster Keaton, Edward F. Cline

Stars:
Buster Keaton, Wallace Beery, Monte Collins

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L’Inferno (1911)
3/5 (1)

“L’Inferno” is a silent Italian film, released in 1911 and directed by Francesco Bertolini, Adolfo Padovan, and Giuseppe de Liguoro. It is based on the first part of Dante Alighieri’s “Divine Comedy,” which describes the journey of Dante through the nine circles of Hell.

The film is divided into 34 segments, each corresponding to one of the cantos of the “Inferno.” It begins with Dante being led by the poet Virgil into the dark forest, where he encounters the three beasts of pride, envy, and avarice. Unable to pass, Dante is guided by Virgil through the gates of Hell, where he witnesses the torments of sinners in the first circle of Limbo.

As Dante and Virgil descend further, they encounter the souls of the damned in each of the circles of Hell. These include the lustful, the gluttonous, the wrathful, the heretics, the violent, the fraudulent, and the treacherous. Dante also encounters some of the historical figures and mythological characters who are punished in Hell, including Cleopatra, Julius Caesar, and Ulysses.

The film is notable for its special effects and innovative techniques, including the use of miniatures and hand-painted backdrops to create the various circles of Hell. It also features impressive costumes and makeup to depict the grotesque and terrifying creatures that Dante encounters in Hell.

Overall, “L’Inferno” is a pioneering film that brought one of the most famous literary works of all time to the screen in a stunning and captivating way. It remains a classic of silent cinema and a testament to the power of Dante’s vision of Hell.

Directors:
Francesco Bertolini, Adolfo Padovan, Giuseppe de Liguoro

Writer:
Dante Alighieri

Stars:
Salvatore Papa, Arturo Pirovano, Giuseppe de Liguoro

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Lumberjack (1944)
3/5 (1)

“Lumberjack” is a 1944 American drama film directed by Lesley Selander and starring Nan Grey, Kirby Grant, and Jeff Donnell. The film follows the story of a young woman named Ruth (Nan Grey) who inherits a logging camp in the Pacific Northwest after her father’s death. Despite the doubts of the camp’s foreman, Jim (Kirby Grant), Ruth decides to take over the camp and become a lumberjack.

As Ruth tries to prove herself in a male-dominated industry, she faces various challenges such as hostile employees, equipment malfunctions, and dangerous logging conditions. However, with the help of Jim and her own determination, Ruth succeeds in running the camp and earning the respect of her workers.

Meanwhile, a romance develops between Ruth and Jim, but their relationship is tested when a rival logging company tries to sabotage their operations. Ruth and Jim must work together to overcome the obstacles and save the camp from ruin.

The film features spectacular footage of logging operations in the Pacific Northwest, as well as several musical performances by Kirby Grant. “Lumberjack” is a classic example of a Hollywood studio system-era film, with its strong focus on traditional gender roles and themes of perseverance and romance.

Directors:
Lesley Selander

Writer:
Norman Houston, Barry Shipman, Clarence E. Mulford

Stars:
William Boyd, Andy Clyde, Jimmy Rogers

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Jungle Man (1941)
3/5 (1)

“Jungle Man” is an adventure film released in 1941, directed by Harry L. Fraser. The film stars Buster Crabbe as Jungle Jim, a fearless guide and adventurer in the African jungle.

The story begins with a group of ivory hunters who are searching for a rare and valuable white elephant. Jungle Jim comes to the aid of the hunters when they are attacked by a tribe of hostile natives. Along the way, Jim encounters the beautiful Joan Redmond (played by Julie London), whose father has been kidnapped by a rival tribe.

Jim agrees to help rescue Redmond’s father and embarks on a dangerous journey deep into the jungle. The group encounters a variety of dangers including wild animals, treacherous terrain, and hostile tribes. As they progress, they discover a plot to exploit the native population and are forced to take action to stop it.

The film is filled with exciting action sequences and showcases Crabbe’s athleticism and bravery. It also features themes of colonialism, exploitation, and the importance of respecting indigenous cultures. Overall, “Jungle Man” is a thrilling adventure film that transports the audience to the exotic and dangerous world of the African jungle.

Directors:
Harry L. Fraser

Writer:
Rita Douglas

Stars:
Buster Crabbe, Charles Middleton, Sheila Darcy

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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 Charade (1953)
5/5 (1)
8 The Intruder (1962)
5/5 (1)
9 The Passion of Joan of Arc (1928)
5/5 (1)
10 Intolerance (1916)
5/5 (1)