Black & White Movies

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D.O.A. (1950)
4/5 (1)

“D.O.A.” is a 1950 film noir directed by Rudolph Maté and starring Edmond O’Brien and Pamela Britton.

The film follows the story of Frank Bigelow, a small-town accountant who arrives in San Francisco for a weekend of fun. However, after a night of heavy drinking, Frank wakes up to discover that he has been poisoned and has only a few days to live.

Desperate to find out who poisoned him and why, Frank embarks on a dangerous and thrilling investigation, leading him to a seedy underworld of crime and corruption. He encounters a cast of characters, including a shady nightclub owner and a mysterious blonde, all of whom may hold the key to his death.

As Frank’s health rapidly deteriorates, he races against time to uncover the truth and bring his killer to justice before it’s too late.

“D.O.A.” is a classic film noir that showcases the genre’s characteristic themes of corruption, crime, and moral ambiguity. O’Brien delivers a compelling performance as the doomed protagonist, and the film’s fast-paced and suspenseful plot keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The film remains a classic of the genre and a must-see for fans of film noir.

Directors:
Rudolph Maté

Writer:
Russell Rouse, Clarence Greene

Stars:
Edmond O’Brien, Pamela Britton, Luther Adler

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Daydreams (1922)
4/5 (1)

“Daydreams” is a 1922 silent comedy film written, directed, and starring Buster Keaton.

The film follows the story of a young man, played by Keaton, who falls asleep and dreams of being transported to a magical world. In this world, he finds himself in various surreal situations, including being chased by a giant spider and performing a high-wire act.

Throughout his dream, the young man also falls in love with a beautiful woman, played by Renée Adorée. He must rescue her from danger, including being held captive by a group of tribal warriors and being pursued by a dangerous train.

As the young man’s dream comes to an end, he awakens to find himself in the real world, but with a newfound sense of adventure and bravery.

“Daydreams” is a classic silent comedy film filled with Keaton’s trademark physical humor and clever visual gags. The surreal dream sequences showcase Keaton’s creativity and imagination, and the film remains a must-see for fans of silent comedy and the work of Buster Keaton.

Directors:
Edward F. Cline, Buster Keaton

Writer:
Roscoe ‘Fatty’ Arbuckle, Edward F. Cline, Buster Keaton

Stars:
Buster Keaton, Renée Adorée,Edward F. Cline

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Downhill (1927)
3/5 (1)

“Downhill” is a 1927 silent drama film directed by Alfred Hitchcock and starring Ivor Novello, Isabel Jeans, and Robin Irvine.

The film follows the story of Roddy Berwick, a popular and wealthy young man who is falsely accused of fathering a child by a young woman. His reputation is ruined and his friends and family turn against him, leading him to leave school and set out on a downward spiral.

As he struggles to survive in the harsh realities of life, Roddy meets a series of characters who take advantage of him and lead him further down the path of despair. He becomes involved with a dance hall girl, loses his job, and is forced to sleep on the streets.

In the end, Roddy is rescued by his former schoolmaster, who helps him clear his name and rebuild his life. He reconciles with his family and friends, but the experiences he has gone through have left their mark on him.

“Downhill” is a poignant and powerful drama that explores the themes of social class, reputation, and the harsh realities of life. Hitchcock’s skillful direction and Novello’s powerful performance make the film a classic of the silent era, and a must-see for fans of the director and the genre.

Directors:
Alfred Hitchcock

Writer:
Constance Collier, Ivor Novello, Eliot Stannard

Stars:
Ivor Novello, Ben Webster, Norman McKinnel

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Danger Flight (1939)
3/5 (1)

“Danger Flight” is a 1939 adventure film directed by Howard Bretherton and starring John Trent, Marjorie Reynolds, and Ward Bond.

The film follows the story of pilot Jim Carmichael, who is hired to fly a plane carrying a valuable cargo across the Pacific Ocean. As he sets out on his journey, he discovers that his co-pilot has been replaced with a criminal who plans to steal the cargo and sabotage the flight.

Jim and his passengers, including a young woman named Joan, must work together to overcome the dangerous obstacles that they face during their flight, including bad weather and mechanical problems with the plane. They are also pursued by the criminal co-pilot, who is determined to carry out his plan to steal the cargo and escape.

As the flight progresses, tensions rise and the danger intensifies, leading to a thrilling climax as Jim and his passengers fight to keep the plane in the air and defeat the criminal co-pilot.

“Danger Flight” is a classic adventure film filled with action, suspense, and excitement, and is a must-see for fans of the genre. The film also showcases the pioneering era of aviation, with stunning aerial shots and thrilling flying sequences that capture the spirit of early aviation.

Directors:
Howard Bretherton

Writer:
Byron Morgan, Edwin C. Parsons, Hal Forrest

Stars:
John Trent, Marjorie Reynolds, Milburn Stone

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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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Carnival of Souls (1962)
4/5 (1)

“Carnival of Souls” is a horror film released in 1962, directed by Herk Harvey and starring Candace Hilligoss. The film tells the story of Mary Henry, a young woman who survives a car accident and finds herself drawn to a mysterious abandoned carnival.

As Mary tries to resume her life after the accident, she begins to experience strange and terrifying visions of a pale-faced man who seems to be following her wherever she goes. She also becomes increasingly isolated and detached from the people around her, leading her to question her own sanity.

As she delves deeper into the mystery of the carnival and the strange man who haunts her, Mary discovers a shocking secret that forces her to confront the reality of her own existence.

The film is known for its eerie and atmospheric cinematography, which creates a sense of foreboding and unease throughout. It also features a haunting musical score, composed by Gene Moore, that adds to the film’s haunting and unsettling atmosphere.

“Carnival of Souls” is often cited as a cult classic and a landmark of independent horror cinema. It explores themes of identity, isolation, and the fear of death, while also utilizing innovative techniques to create a sense of horror and unease.

Directors:
Herk Harvey

Writer:
John Clifford, Herk Harvey

Stars:
Candace Hilligoss, Frances Feist, Sidney Berger

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Combat America (1943)
3/5 (1)

“Combat America” is a documentary film released in 1943, directed by the famous Hollywood director William Wyler. The film follows the experiences of American soldiers during World War II, specifically those fighting in the North African campaign.

The film was created to boost morale and support for the war effort, highlighting the bravery and determination of the American soldiers in the face of adversity. It includes footage of actual combat, as well as interviews with soldiers on the front lines.

The film begins by showing the training and preparation of American soldiers as they prepare to be sent to North Africa. It then follows their journey as they land on the beaches of Casablanca and begin fighting against the German army.

Throughout the film, viewers are given a glimpse into the everyday lives of the soldiers, from their struggles with homesickness and boredom to their moments of bravery and heroism on the battlefield.

The film also includes a powerful narration, written by famous author James Jones, that captures the courage and sacrifice of the American soldiers fighting in the war.

Overall, “Combat America” is a powerful and moving tribute to the men and women who fought in World War II. It highlights the importance of the war effort and the sacrifices made by those who served their country. The film remains a poignant reminder of the courage and determination of the Greatest Generation.

Writer:
John Lee Mahin

Stars:
Clark Gable, William A. Hatcher, Philip J. Hulls

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Cosmo Jones, Crime Smasher (1943)
3/5 (1)

“Cosmo Jones, Crime Smasher” is a crime-comedy film released in 1943, directed by James Tinling and starring Frank Graham as the titular character, Cosmo Jones. The film follows Cosmo, a bumbling police officer, as he tries to solve a series of crimes in his city.

Cosmo is initially assigned to guard a wealthy businessman named Mr. Grisson (played by Jerome Cowan), who is receiving threatening letters. However, things quickly become more complicated when Grisson is found dead and Cosmo becomes the prime suspect. Despite his incompetence, Cosmo is determined to clear his name and find the real killer.

As he investigates the case, Cosmo encounters a colorful cast of characters, including a seductive nightclub singer, a suspicious janitor, and a gang of thieves. Along the way, he stumbles into several slapstick situations, including a memorable scene in which he accidentally destroys a car while attempting to apprehend a suspect.

Despite his many mistakes, Cosmo eventually manages to crack the case and bring the criminals to justice. The film ends with Cosmo receiving a promotion and the admiration of his fellow officers.

Overall, “Cosmo Jones, Crime Smasher” is a lighthearted and entertaining film that blends elements of crime drama and comedy. The film showcases the comedic talents of Frank Graham and the enduring appeal of the crime genre in American cinema.

Directors:
James Tinling

Writer:
Michael L. Simmons, Walter Gering, Frank Graham

Stars:
Frank Graham, Edgar Kennedy, Gale Storm

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Cause for Alarm! (1951)
3/5 (1)

“Cause for Alarm!” is a film noir released in 1951, directed by Tay Garnett and starring Loretta Young and Barry Sullivan. The film follows the story of a woman named Ellen Jones (played by Young), who becomes increasingly paranoid after her husband George (played by Sullivan) is diagnosed with a heart condition and dies suddenly.

Ellen becomes convinced that her husband’s doctor, Dr. Ranney (played by Bruce Cowling), is responsible for her husband’s death and is now trying to harm her as well. She writes a letter to the district attorney accusing Dr. Ranney of murder, but her plan backfires when her husband’s friend and colleague, Lieutenant Ed Cullen (played by Charles Drake), becomes suspicious of her behavior.

As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that Ellen’s accusations are unfounded and that she is suffering from a severe case of paranoia. Her mental state continues to deteriorate, leading to a dramatic confrontation with Lt. Cullen.

The film explores themes of grief, paranoia, and the dangers of jumping to conclusions without evidence. It also highlights the pressures faced by women in the 1950s, particularly the pressure to conform to traditional gender roles and the stigma surrounding mental illness.

Overall, “Cause for Alarm!” is a gripping and suspenseful film that delves into the darker aspects of the human psyche, while also highlighting the importance of seeking help and support when struggling with mental health issues.

Directors:
Tay Garnett

Writer:
Mel Dinelli, Tom Lewis, Lawrence B. Marcus

Stars:
Loretta Young, Barry Sullivan, Bruce Cowling

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Charlie Chaplin Festival (1938)
4/5 (1)

“Charlie Chaplin Festival” is a compilation film released in 1938 by United Artists, featuring some of the most iconic moments from Charlie Chaplin’s films. The film was created to celebrate Chaplin’s 25 years in the film industry.

The film is divided into several segments, each showcasing a different aspect of Chaplin’s career. The segments include clips from some of his most famous films, such as “The Kid,” “City Lights,” and “Modern Times.”

In addition to the film clips, “Charlie Chaplin Festival” also includes interviews with Chaplin himself, as well as with some of his colleagues in the film industry. These interviews provide insight into Chaplin’s creative process and his approach to filmmaking.

The film also includes a musical score, composed by Chaplin himself, which adds to the overall mood and atmosphere of the film.

Overall, “Charlie Chaplin Festival” is a tribute to one of the greatest comedians in the history of cinema, showcasing the enduring appeal and timelessness of Chaplin’s work. It serves as a reminder of the impact that Chaplin had on the film industry and on popular culture as a whole.

Directors:
Charles Chaplin

Writer:
Charles Chaplin

Stars:
Charles Chaplin, Albert Austin, Lloyd Bacon

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Charlie Chaplin’s Mabels Strange Predicament (1914)
3/5 (1)

“Mabel’s Strange Predicament” is a silent comedy film produced by Keystone Studios and released in 1914, directed by Mabel Normand and starring Charlie Chaplin. The film is notable for being the first appearance of Chaplin as his iconic character, The Tramp.

The film opens with Mabel (played by Normand) getting locked out of her hotel room in the middle of the night, wearing only a nightgown and slippers. She wanders around the hotel, trying to find a way back into her room, but all the doors are locked. She then encounters The Tramp, a wandering vagabond, who helps her sneak back into her room through a window.

After Mabel falls asleep, The Tramp accidentally wakes her up by snoring loudly. Mabel tries to get him to leave, but he refuses, insisting that he has nowhere else to go. The two then engage in a series of comedic hijinks, including The Tramp stealing a cop’s uniform to sneak out of the hotel, and Mabel pretending to be a wealthy patron in order to avoid paying her bill.

The film ends with The Tramp being chased by a mob of angry people after accidentally setting a dog on fire. Mabel intervenes and helps him escape, and the two part ways.

Overall, “Mabel’s Strange Predicament” is a lighthearted and humorous film that showcases the early comedic talents of Charlie Chaplin and Mabel Normand.

Directors:
Mabel Normand

Writer:
Charles Chaplin, Henry Lehrman

Stars:
Mabel Normand, Charles Chaplin, Chester Conklin

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Charlie Chaplin’s Kids Auto Race At Venice (1914)
3/5 (1)

“Kids Auto Race At Venice” is a short silent comedy film released in 1914 and directed by Henry Lehrman. The film stars Charlie Chaplin in one of his earliest roles, playing a version of his iconic Tramp character.

The film takes place at a children’s auto race in Venice, California, where a film crew is shooting a documentary. Charlie Chaplin’s character, referred to as the “Little Tramp,” is a bystander who keeps getting in the way of the film crew’s shots.

As the children’s race gets underway, Chaplin’s character becomes increasingly enamored with the camera, vying for attention and trying to get his face on film. He begins to interfere with the race, tripping over wires and distracting the drivers.

Despite the chaos he causes, Chaplin’s character ultimately manages to steal the show, with the filmmakers realizing that his antics would make for a great comedic short film. In the final scene, Chaplin’s character rides off into the sunset, chased by a mob of children.

“Kids Auto Race At Venice” is considered a groundbreaking film in the history of comedy, as it marked the first appearance of Charlie Chaplin’s iconic Tramp character on screen. The film is also notable for its use of improvisation and its blending of documentary footage with comedic elements. It remains a beloved classic of silent film comedy to this day.

Directors:
Henry Lehrman

Writer:
Henry Lehrman, Charles Chaplin

Stars:
Charles Chaplin, Henry Lehrman, Gordon Griffith

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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)