Black & White Movies

Comedy

The Town Went Wild (1944)
4/5 (2)

“The Town Went Wild” is a comedy film directed by Ralph Murphy and released in 1944. The movie is set in a small town that experiences a sudden and bizarre change in behavior among its residents.

The film’s protagonist is Frank Raymond (Freddie Bartholomew), a young man who returns to his hometown after serving in the military during World War II. He finds the town in chaos, with its inhabitants suddenly becoming wild and unruly.

The cause of the town’s transformation is a mysterious gas that has been released from a nearby chemical plant. The gas affects people differently, with some becoming aggressive and others becoming overly emotional.

As the town’s residents become more and more uncontrollable, Frank and his girlfriend, Jane (Joan Leslie), work to find a solution to the problem. They discover that the gas has also affected the town’s water supply and work to cut off the source of contamination.

In the end, Frank and Jane are able to restore order to the town and save it from complete chaos. The film ends with the two of them embracing, happy to have reunited and brought peace back to their community.

Overall, “The Town Went Wild” is a lighthearted comedy that uses the idea of a small town going crazy as a humorous premise. The film also touches on themes of community and the importance of working together to solve problems.

Directors:
Ralph Murphy

Writer:
Bernard B. Roth, Clarence Greene, Russell Rouse

Stars:
Freddie Bartholomew, Jimmy Lydon, Edward Everett Horton

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King of the Zombies (1941)
3/5 (1)

“King of the Zombies” is a horror-comedy film directed by Jean Yarbrough and released in 1941. The movie is set during World War II and follows a group of individuals who become stranded on a remote Caribbean island.

The film’s protagonist is James McCarthy (Dick Purcell), a pilot who, along with his assistant, Bill Summers (Mantan Moreland), and his socialite passenger, Barbara Winslow (Joan Woodbury), crash-lands on the island. They are taken in by Dr. Sangre (Henry Victor), a sinister scientist who is conducting experiments on zombies in his secluded mansion.

Sangre’s assistant, a voodoo priest named Momba (John Archer), is in charge of the zombies, which he uses to do his bidding. Momba hypnotizes Bill, forcing him to do his bidding, and they set out to find a secret formula that Sangre believes will help the Axis powers win the war.

James and Barbara, meanwhile, are locked up in the mansion and try to escape. They discover that the mansion is filled with zombies, which they must fight off to get to safety.

In the end, James and Barbara manage to escape, and Sangre and Momba are killed in a final confrontation with the zombies. James and his companions make their way back to civilization, but not before experiencing several more supernatural and comedic mishaps along the way.

Overall, “King of the Zombies” is a low-budget, campy horror-comedy film that is notable for its portrayal of zombies as mindless, obedient servants rather than the flesh-eating monsters they are commonly known as today.

Directors:
Jean Yarbrough

Writer:
Edmond Kelso

Stars:
Dick Purcell, Joan Woodbury, Mantan Moreland

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The Lady Says No (1952)
4/5 (2)

“The Lady Says No” is a 1952 romantic comedy film directed by Frank Ross and starring Joan Caulfield and David Niven. The film follows the story of a successful female author named Dorinda Hatch (played by Caulfield), who writes a book titled “The Lady Says No” that argues against the institution of marriage.

Dorinda’s book becomes a bestseller and earns her widespread fame and admiration. However, it also attracts the attention of a wealthy playboy named Bill Shelby (played by Niven), who takes a romantic interest in her despite her avowed stance against marriage.

Despite her initial reluctance, Dorinda begins to fall for Bill and the two begin a romance. However, their relationship is complicated by Dorinda’s commitment to her anti-marriage philosophy and Bill’s desire to settle down and start a family.

As their relationship develops, Dorinda is forced to confront her own biases and reconsider her opinions on marriage. She also faces pressure from her publisher and fans, who want her to abandon her stance and write a more conventional book.

In the end, Dorinda and Bill come to an understanding and she decides to give marriage a chance. The film ends with the couple getting married and Dorinda embracing her new role as a wife and mother.

Overall, “The Lady Says No” is a lighthearted romantic comedy that explores themes of gender roles, societal expectations, and the power of love. The film features strong performances from its lead actors and a witty script that provides plenty of laughs along the way.

Directors:
Frank Ross

Writer:
Robert Russell

Stars:
Joan Caulfield, David Niven, James Robertson Justice

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Baby Face Morgan (1942)
3/5 (1)

“Baby Face Morgan” is a 1942 crime drama film directed by Arthur Dreifuss and starring Richard Cromwell, Mary Carlisle, and Robert Armstrong. The film follows the story of an ambitious young man named Morgan (played by Cromwell), who rises through the ranks of organized crime to become a powerful gangster.

The film begins with Morgan as a teenager living in a small town. He is bored with his mundane life and dreams of becoming rich and famous. When a group of gangsters come to town, Morgan sees an opportunity to join their ranks and sets out to impress them with his toughness and quick thinking.

Morgan’s efforts pay off and he is recruited by the gangsters to work for them in the city. He quickly rises through the ranks, becoming a trusted member of the organization. Along the way, he becomes involved with a nightclub singer named Judy (played by Carlisle), who is also involved with the gang’s leader, Butch (played by Armstrong).

As Morgan’s power within the organization grows, he begins to clash with Butch, who sees him as a threat to his own leadership. The tension between the two men eventually leads to a violent confrontation, with Morgan emerging as the victor.

Despite his success, Morgan begins to realize the toll that his criminal lifestyle has taken on him and those around him. He begins to question his choices and the people he has aligned himself with, including Judy, who he learns has been using him for her own gain.

In the end, Morgan decides to turn his back on the criminal world and start anew. He leaves behind his former life and the people he once considered friends and allies, including Judy. The film ends with Morgan walking off into the distance, ready to start a new chapter in his life.

Overall, “Baby Face Morgan” is a classic example of the gangster film genre, exploring themes of power, ambition, and the corrupting influence of crime. The film features strong performances from its lead actors and a compelling storyline that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.

Directors:
Arthur Dreifuss

Writer:
Edward Dein, Jack Rubin, Oscar Brodney

Stars:
Richard Cromwell, Mary Carlisle, Robert Armstrong

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Behave Yourself (1951)
3/5 (1)

“Behave Yourself!” is a classic crime-comedy film from 1951 directed by George Beck and starring Farley Granger and Shelley Winters. The film revolves around a newlywed couple, Bill and Kate, who adopt a lost dog, but soon find themselves embroiled in a criminal conspiracy.

After bringing the dog home, the couple discovers that it was previously owned by a gangster, and its collar contains a valuable diamond. When the gangster comes looking for the dog, he mistakes Bill for a private detective and hires him to retrieve the diamond.

As Bill tries to solve the case, he encounters a variety of colorful characters, including a nightclub singer, a shady private detective, and a psychotic killer. Along the way, he and Kate find themselves in increasingly dangerous situations and must work together to outsmart the criminals and stay alive.

Despite the danger, the film is filled with comedic moments, particularly the interactions between the bumbling Bill and his witty wife Kate. Ultimately, the couple manages to solve the case and turn the tables on the criminals, ending the film on a satisfying note. “Behave Yourself!” is a charming and entertaining film that remains a classic of the crime-comedy genre.

Directors:
George Beck

Writer:
George Beck, Frank Tarloff

Stars:
Farley Granger, Shelley Winters, William Demarest

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The Kid Sister (1945)
4/5 (2)

“The Kid Sister” is a romantic comedy film released in 1945, directed by Edward F. Cline and starring Jane Powell, Kent Taylor, and Edgar Bergen. The film follows the story of a young woman named Patricia (Jane Powell) who falls in love with her older sister’s fiancé, and the comedic mishaps that ensue.

The film begins with Patricia’s sister, Joan (played by Gloria DeHaven), announcing her engagement to her boyfriend, Richard (played by Kent Taylor). Patricia is excited for her sister, but soon begins to develop feelings for Richard herself.

As Patricia tries to hide her feelings, she inadvertently causes a series of misunderstandings and complications. She joins a dating service to find a new boyfriend, but ends up getting matched with Richard. Patricia then tries to sabotage their relationship, but her plans backfire and she ends up making a fool of herself.

Meanwhile, Edgar Bergen and his ventriloquist dummy Charlie McCarthy provide additional comedic relief as they try to help Patricia win Richard’s heart.

In the end, after a series of misunderstandings and mishaps, Patricia and Richard confess their love for each other, and Patricia’s sister graciously steps aside, allowing the couple to be together.

Overall, “The Kid Sister” is a lighthearted and charming romantic comedy that showcases the talents of Jane Powell and the comedic timing of Edgar Bergen and his famous dummy, Charlie McCarthy.

Directors:
Sam Newfield

Writer:
Fred Myton

Stars:
Roger Pryor, Judy Clark, Frank Jenks

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One Too Many (1916)
3/5 (1)

“One Too Many” is a silent comedy film released in 1916, directed by and starring Roscoe “Fatty” Arbuckle, alongside co-stars Minta Durfee and Al St. John. The film follows the misadventures of Arbuckle’s character, who attends a society party and gets drunk, causing chaos and havoc.

The film begins with Fatty Arbuckle’s character, named Fatty, getting ready to attend a society party with his wife, played by Minta Durfee. Fatty is warned by his wife not to drink too much and embarrass her, but Fatty disregards her warning and proceeds to drink heavily at the party.

As the night goes on, Fatty becomes increasingly intoxicated and causes chaos at the party. He accidentally sets his own trousers on fire and ends up jumping into a nearby pond to extinguish the flames. Fatty then mistakes a decorative statue for a real person and accidentally knocks it over, causing it to break.

Eventually, Fatty becomes so drunk that he passes out and is taken home by his wife. The next morning, Fatty wakes up with a terrible hangover and is forced to endure his wife’s scolding for his behavior at the party.

Overall, “One Too Many” is a classic example of the slapstick comedy genre popularized in the early 1900s, with Arbuckle’s physical comedy and comedic timing providing plenty of laughs for audiences of the time.

Directors:
Will Louis

Stars:
Oliver Hardy, Billy Ruge, Billy Bletcher

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Little Men (1940)
3/5 (1)

“Little Men” is a 1940 film directed by Norman Z. McLeod and based on the novel of the same name by Louisa May Alcott. The movie follows the story of Jo March (Kay Francis), who runs a boarding school for boys with her husband, Fritz Bhaer (Jack Oakie).

The school, Plumfield, is home to a diverse group of boys, each with their own unique personalities and backgrounds. Among them is Dan (Jimmy Lydon), a mischievous boy who often gets into trouble but has a heart of gold, and Nat (Junior Durkin), a talented musician who dreams of making it big someday.

Jo and Fritz are dedicated to helping these boys grow into responsible and respectable young men, even if it means making sacrifices along the way. As the school year progresses, the boys face various challenges, such as conflicts with one another and struggles with their schoolwork. Jo and Fritz are always there to offer guidance and support, even when it means going against their own interests.

Meanwhile, Jo must also deal with personal challenges of her own. She finds herself torn between her responsibilities at the school and her desire to pursue her writing career, which has always been her passion. Additionally, she must navigate her complicated relationship with her wealthy Aunt March (Edna May Oliver), who wants her to give up her teaching job and marry into a wealthy family.

The film is a heartwarming story about the power of education and mentorship, as well as the importance of following one’s passions and staying true to oneself. It celebrates the joys of childhood and the bonds of friendship, while also highlighting the challenges and obstacles that come with growing up. In the end, the boys of Plumfield come to realize the value of hard work, integrity, and loyalty, and they leave the school better prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.

Directors:
Norman Z. McLeod

Writer:
Mark Kelly, Arthur Caesar, Louisa May Alcott

Stars:
Kay Francis, Jack Oakie, George Bancroft

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Lost in the Stratosphere (1934)
3/5 (1)

“Lost in the Stratosphere” is a science-fiction film from 1934 directed by Melville W. Brown. The movie follows a group of scientists who embark on a high-altitude balloon flight in order to conduct experiments on cosmic rays. However, their mission goes awry when they get caught in a storm and end up drifting off course, eventually crash-landing on an uncharted island.

The scientists quickly discover that the island is home to a highly advanced civilization, which has been cut off from the rest of the world for centuries. The inhabitants of the island are initially wary of the newcomers, but they eventually welcome them and show them their impressive technological advancements, including a highly advanced transportation system and a ray gun that can disintegrate anything it targets.

However, the scientists soon realize that the island’s leaders are using their technology for nefarious purposes. They plan to use their ray gun to destroy the rest of the world and establish themselves as rulers. The scientists must work together to stop them and find a way to escape the island and return to civilization.

Throughout the movie, there are several exciting action sequences, including a battle between the scientists and the island’s soldiers, as well as a thrilling chase through the island’s underground tunnels. In the end, the scientists are able to stop the island’s leaders and escape back to civilization, where they are hailed as heroes for their brave actions.

Directors:
Melville W. Brown

Writer:
Tristram Tupper, Albert DeMond

Stars:
William Cagney, Edward J. Nugent, June Collyer

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Eternally Yours (1939)
3/5 (1)

“Eternally Yours” is a romantic drama film from 1939 directed by Tay Garnett. The movie stars Loretta Young as Anita, a successful stage magician who falls in love with a handsome and charming pianist named Tony, played by David Niven.

Despite her initial reluctance, the two get married and live happily together for a while, until Tony’s music career starts to take off, and he begins to neglect their marriage. Anita, feeling unappreciated and ignored, decides to leave Tony and start a new life for herself.

However, Tony realizes his mistake and tries to win Anita back, even going as far as learning some of her magic tricks to impress her. Eventually, Anita is won over, and the two reconcile, reaffirming their love for each other.

The film is notable for its impressive special effects, particularly in the scenes where Anita performs her magic tricks. It was also praised for the chemistry between the two leads and for its portrayal of a strong, independent woman who refuses to be held back by societal norms.

Directors:
Tay Garnett

Writer:
Gene Towne, C. Graham Baker, Edward Childs Carpenter

Stars:
Loretta Young, David Niven, Hugh Herbert

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Let’s Go Collegiate (1941)
3/5 (1)

“Let’s Go Collegiate” is a 1941 American musical comedy film directed by Jean Yarbrough and starring Frankie Darro, Marcia Mae Jones, and Jackie Moran.

The movie follows the story of a group of college students who are trying to save their school from financial ruin. The students come up with a plan to stage a big variety show to raise money for the school, but they face numerous obstacles along the way.

The movie features a series of song and dance numbers, including a show-stopping performance by Darro and Jones, and showcases the talents of its young cast. As the students work together to put on the show, they also navigate the ups and downs of college life, including romantic entanglements and academic pressures.

As the big night of the show approaches, the students must overcome their nerves and give it their all on stage. The finale features a rousing production number that brings the audience to their feet and helps save the school from financial ruin.

Overall, “Let’s Go Collegiate” is a lively and entertaining musical comedy that captures the spirit of college life in the 1940s. The movie celebrates the joys of friendship, teamwork, and creativity, and features some memorable musical performances that are sure to delight audiences of all ages.

Directors:
Jean Yarbrough

Writer:
Edmond Kelso

Stars:
Frankie Darro, Marcia Mae Jones, Jackie Moran

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Red Lights Ahead (1936)
3/5 (1)

“Red Lights Ahead” is a 1936 American comedy film directed by Roland D. Reed and starring Jessie Matthews, Conrad Nagel, and Valerie Hobson.

The movie follows the story of a young actress named Sally (Jessie Matthews), who is traveling from London to New York to start a new career. On the ship, she meets a wealthy businessman named Tom (Conrad Nagel), and the two fall in love.

However, their plans are complicated when they arrive in New York and Sally is mistaken for a notorious gangster’s moll named Torchy Blane. Tom, who is actually an undercover agent, convinces Sally to play along with the charade in order to help him catch the gangsters.

As Sally and Tom try to outsmart the gangsters and unravel their criminal plot, they also must deal with their growing feelings for each other. Along the way, they encounter a colorful cast of characters, including a hard-boiled detective, a nosy newspaper reporter, and a gangster boss with a taste for the finer things in life.

As the movie reaches its climax, Sally and Tom find themselves in a dangerous situation, with the gangsters closing in on them. However, they manage to turn the tables on their enemies and emerge victorious, while also realizing their love for each other.

Overall, “Red Lights Ahead” is a fun and entertaining comedy that showcases the talents of its lead actors. The movie combines humor, romance, and suspense in a fast-paced plot that keeps the audience engaged until the very end.

Directors:
Roland D. Reed

Writer:
Robert Ellis, Helen Logan

Stars:
Andy Clyde, Lucile Gleason, Roger Imhof

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Heading for Heaven (1947)
3/5 (1)

“Heading for Heaven” is a 1947 American comedy film directed by Lewis D. Collins and starring Stuart Erwin, Glenda Farrell, and Irene Ryan.

The movie follows the story of Wilbur Todd (Stuart Erwin), a bumbling but well-meaning inventor who has a knack for creating machines that never quite work. Wilbur’s latest invention is a “perpetual motion machine,” which he believes will revolutionize the energy industry and make him a fortune.

However, when Wilbur’s machine malfunctions and causes a blackout in the city, he is mistaken for a saboteur and chased by the police. He ends up on a train headed for the small town of Paradise, where he hopes to hide out and fix his invention.

On the train, Wilbur meets Mary Lou Medford (Glenda Farrell), a fast-talking journalist who is looking for a story to write about. She becomes interested in Wilbur’s story and follows him to Paradise, where she begins to investigate his background and motives.

As Wilbur tries to fix his machine and clear his name, he also falls in love with the town’s schoolteacher, Marjorie Main (Irene Ryan), who helps him out of his predicament. With the help of his new friends, Wilbur finally succeeds in getting his machine to work, and he becomes a hero in the eyes of the town.

Overall, “Heading for Heaven” is a charming and lighthearted comedy that showcases the comedic talents of its lead actors. The movie combines slapstick humor with a feel-good message about perseverance and the power of friendship.

Directors:
Lewis D. Collins

Writer:
Daniel Brown, Lewis D. Collins, Oscar Mugge

Stars:
Stuart Erwin, Glenda Farrell, Russ Vincent

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Killer Dill (1947)
4/5 (2)

“Killer Dill” is a 1947 American crime comedy film directed by Lewis D. Collins and starring Stuart Erwin, Lionel Stander, and Ann Savage.

The movie follows the misadventures of two con artists, Harry (Stuart Erwin) and Willie (Lionel Stander), who come up with a scheme to cheat a wealthy businessman, J. Hamilton Gibbs (Frank Fenton), out of $15,000. The duo convinces Gibbs to invest in a fake oil well venture, promising him a huge return on his investment.

However, their plans are complicated when Harry falls in love with Gibbs’ daughter, Helen (Ann Savage), who is suspicious of the oil well venture and starts investigating it. As the two con artists try to cover their tracks and maintain their scheme, they become entangled in a web of lies, deceit, and murder.

As the movie progresses, the tension rises as Harry and Willie must use all their cunning and street smarts to avoid getting caught and stay alive. The movie reaches its climax with a dramatic showdown between the con artists and the law, and the final twist leaves the audience surprised.

Overall, “Killer Dill” is a classic crime comedy that showcases the talents of its lead actors and keeps the audience entertained with its clever plot twists and witty dialogue.

Directors:
Lewis D. Collins

Writer:
Alan Friedman, John O’Dea

Stars:
Stuart Erwin, Anne Gwynne, Frank Albertson

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Charlie’s Recreation (1914)
3/5 (1)

“Charlie’s Recreation” is a short silent film released in 1914, directed by and starring Charlie Chaplin. The film is a comedy that follows the misadventures of Chaplin’s character as he tries to enjoy a day off from work.

The movie begins with Charlie waking up and getting ready for a day of leisure. He heads out to the park, where he sees a woman playing tennis. Charlie decides to try his hand at the game, but he is terrible at it and ends up ruining the match.

Next, Charlie tries his luck at bicycling, but he falls off the bike repeatedly, much to the amusement of onlookers. He also tries to play a game of golf, but he is so clumsy that he ends up damaging the golf course.

Finally, Charlie decides to take a nap on a bench in the park, but he is interrupted by a group of rowdy children. They play pranks on him and steal his belongings, leaving him in a state of disarray.

The film ends with Charlie returning home, exhausted and defeated from his day of recreation.

“Charlie’s Recreation” is a classic example of Charlie Chaplin’s slapstick comedy style, filled with physical humor and comical mishaps. The film showcases Chaplin’s talent for physical comedy and his ability to make audiences laugh without saying a word.

Overall, “Charlie’s Recreation” is a delightful and entertaining short film that provides a glimpse into the early days of cinema and the enduring appeal of Charlie Chaplin’s comedic genius.

Directors:
Charles Chaplin

Writer:
Charles Chaplin

Stars:
Charles Chaplin, Charles Bennett, Helen Carruthers

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Black & White Series

Series List A-Z

Top Rated Moveis

1 Great Expectations (1946)
5/5 (1)
2 Strike (1925)
5/5 (1)
3 The Passion of Joan of Arc (1928)
5/5 (1)
4 Intolerance (1916)
5/5 (1)
5 The Phantom Carriage (1921)
5/5 (1)
6 Charade (1953)
5/5 (1)
7 His Girl Friday (1940)
5/5 (1)
8 Rebecca (1940)
5/5 (1)
9 The Intruder (1962)
5/5 (1)
10 Arizona Gunfighter (1937)
5/5 (1)