Black & White Movies

Comedy

Topper Returns (1941)
4/5 (1)

“Topper Returns” is a supernatural comedy film released in 1941, directed by Roy Del Ruth and starring Joan Blondell, Roland Young, and Carole Landis. The film is the third and final installment in the “Topper” film series, based on the characters created by Thorne Smith in his 1930 novel “Topper.”

The film tells the story of Gail Richards (Landis), a beautiful young woman who is murdered while staying at a remote country mansion. Her ghost returns to earth to seek revenge on her killer, and enlists the help of Cosmo Topper (Young), a stuffy banker who has the ability to see and communicate with ghosts. Together, they must solve the mystery of Gail’s murder before the killer strikes again.

As they investigate, they encounter a colorful cast of characters, including a suspicious butler (played by Eddie “Rochester” Anderson), a flirtatious French maid (Blondell), and a bumbling detective (Billie Burke). Along the way, they uncover a complex plot involving inheritance, blackmail, and hidden identities.

“Topper Returns” was well-received by audiences and critics for its clever script, zany characters, and impressive special effects. It is often regarded as the best film in the “Topper” series and has since become a cult classic in the genre of supernatural comedies.

Directors:
Roy Del Ruth

Writer:
Thorne Smith, Jonathan Latimer, Gordon Douglas

Stars:
Joan Blondell, Roland Young, Carole Landis

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Indiscreet (1931)
3/5 (1)

“Indiscreet” is a romantic comedy film released in 1931, directed by Leo McCarey and starring Gloria Swanson and Ben Lyon. The film tells the story of a famous actress named Geraldine “Gerry” Trent (Swanson) who falls in love with a charming, but married, businessman named Tony Blake (Lyon).

Gerry and Tony meet on a train and immediately hit it off. Despite being aware that Tony is married, Gerry cannot resist his charms and the two begin an affair. However, their relationship becomes complicated when Tony’s wife finds out and threatens to sue for divorce, which would ruin his career.

The film was well-received by critics and audiences, with many praising Swanson’s performance as the witty and glamorous Gerry. It was also notable for its sophisticated dialogue and depiction of a more liberated view of relationships than was typical for the time period.

“Indiscreet” was remade in 1958, with Ingrid Bergman and Cary Grant in the lead roles, and directed by Stanley Donen.

Directors:
Leo McCarey

Writer:
Buddy G. DeSylva, Lew Brown, Ray Henderson

Stars:
Gloria Swanson, Ben Lyon, Monroe Owsley

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Machine Gun Mama (1944)
3/5 (1)

Machine Gun Mama is a musical comedy film released in 1944, directed by Harold Young and starring the comedic duo of Wallace Ford and Mae West. The film was produced by Universal Pictures and is notable for being one of the few films that West made outside of Paramount Pictures.

In the film, Mae West plays a singer named “Tira” who gets mixed up with a group of criminals after she falls in love with a man named “Bob” (played by Roger Pryor). Tira and Bob, along with Tira’s bodyguard “Slick” (played by Ford), travel to Central America where Tira becomes embroiled in a plot to overthrow the government.

As with many of West’s films, Machine Gun Mama was met with controversy due to its suggestive content and innuendo-laced dialogue. Despite this, the film was a moderate success at the box office and helped to solidify West’s status as one of the most popular actresses of the era.

Today, Machine Gun Mama is primarily remembered as a curiosity in the Mae West filmography, and is notable for its campy humor and over-the-top musical numbers.

Directors:
Harold Young

Writer:
Sam Neuman

Stars:
Armida, El Brendel, Wallace Ford

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Mud and Sand (1922)
3/5 (1)

“Mud and Sand” is a silent comedy film directed by Gilbert Pratt and starring Stan Laurel, who is most famous for his later work with Oliver Hardy. The film was released in 1922 and is a parody of Rudolph Valentino’s hit movie “Blood and Sand” from the same year.

The film tells the story of Rhubarb Vaselino (Stan Laurel), a poor young man who dreams of becoming a bullfighter like his idol, Rudolph Valentino. He is in love with Teresita (Vivien Oakland), the daughter of the local blacksmith, but she is already engaged to another man.

With the help of his best friend, played by James Finlayson, Rhubarb trains to become a bullfighter and impresses a famous matador, who takes him under his wing. Rhubarb soon becomes a sensation in the bullfighting world, but his success comes at a cost.

As Rhubarb’s fame grows, he becomes more and more arrogant and selfish, neglecting his friends and loved ones. He also becomes entangled with a seductive woman who only wants him for his fame and fortune.

In the end, Rhubarb realizes the error of his ways and decides to give up bullfighting and return to his simple life with Teresita.

“Mud and Sand” is a classic example of a silent comedy, with plenty of slapstick humor and exaggerated physical gags. It is also a satire of Hollywood and the movie industry, poking fun at the trend of making glamorous films about exotic locations and lifestyles.

Overall, “Mud and Sand” is a funny and entertaining film that showcases Stan Laurel’s comedic talents and the wit of the filmmakers behind it.

Directors:
Gilbert Pratt

Writer:
Tom Miranda

Stars:
Stan Laurel, Mae Laurel, Julie Leonard

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The Man in the White Suit (1951)
4/5 (1)

“The Man in the White Suit” is a British satirical comedy film released in 1951. The movie tells the story of Sidney Stratton, a brilliant but eccentric scientist who creates a revolutionary new fabric that never gets dirty or wears out.

At first, Sidney’s invention is hailed as a miracle, and he becomes a celebrity. However, he soon discovers that his invention threatens the economic interests of the textile industry, and he is targeted by both the management and the labor unions.

Despite their efforts to stop him, Sidney remains committed to his invention, believing that it will bring great benefits to society. He is eventually forced to go into hiding, but he is rescued by a sympathetic factory owner who sees the potential in his invention.

In the end, Sidney’s invention is hailed as a success, but he is left disillusioned by the greed and corruption he encountered in the industry.

“The Man in the White Suit” is notable for its satirical take on capitalism and the tensions between innovation and vested interests. It also features strong performances by its cast, including Alec Guinness as Sidney Stratton, and has become a classic of British cinema.

Directors:
Alexander Mackendrick

Writer:
Roger MacDougall, John Dighton, Alexander Mackendrick

Stars:
Alec Guinness, Joan Greenwood, Cecil Parker

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Dixie Jamboree (1944)
3/5 (1)

“Dixie Jamboree” is a musical comedy film released in 1944. The story follows a struggling songwriter named Dan Dixon (played by Fuzzy Knight), who travels to New Orleans to attend a music festival in the hopes of selling his songs to a famous producer.

Once in New Orleans, Dixon meets a beautiful singer named Ginger (played by Frances Langford), who he quickly falls in love with. However, Dixon soon discovers that Ginger is being controlled by her greedy manager, Linton (played by Percy Kilbride), who is only interested in making money off of her talent.

Dixon decides to help Ginger break free from Linton’s grasp and convinces her to sing his songs at the music festival. Despite Linton’s attempts to sabotage their performance, Dixon and Ginger manage to impress the producer and secure a record deal.

As Dixon and Ginger’s careers take off, they find themselves in the middle of a love triangle with another singer named Daisy Mae (played by Sheila Ryan). However, Dixon ultimately chooses Ginger and they continue to perform together, while Linton is left to rue his missed opportunity.

Overall, “Dixie Jamboree” is a light-hearted musical comedy that showcases the talents of its cast and features several memorable musical performances. The film explores themes of love, ambition, and the power of music to bring people together.

Directors:
Christy Cabanne

Writer:
Sam Neuman, Lawrence Taylor

Stars:
Frances Langford, Guy Kibbee, Eddie Quillan

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Bulldog Drummond’s Bride (1939)
3/5 (1)

“Bulldog Drummond’s Bride” is a 1939 film directed by James P. Hogan and starring John Howard, Heather Angel, and H.B. Warner. It is based on the character Bulldog Drummond, created by H.C. McNeile.

The film follows the adventures of Captain Hugh “Bulldog” Drummond (John Howard) as he prepares to marry his fiancée, Phyllis Clavering (Heather Angel). However, their plans are interrupted when Phyllis’ father, Colonel Clavering (H.B. Warner), is kidnapped by a group of international criminals who want to use his scientific knowledge to build a powerful weapon.

Drummond and his friend Algy (Reginald Denny) set out to rescue Colonel Clavering, but they soon discover that the plot is more complicated than they first thought. They are aided in their quest by Phyllis, as well as a group of eccentric characters, including a former safecracker named “The Mouse” (E.E. Clive) and a bumbling police inspector named Tredwell (Franklin Pangborn).

As they delve deeper into the criminal underworld, Drummond and his team face a series of obstacles, including a dangerous femme fatale named Mrs. Mercer (Zeffie Tilbury) and a sinister mastermind known only as “The Black Widow”. In the end, they must race against time to prevent the villains from using their weapon to launch a devastating attack on London.

“Bulldog Drummond’s Bride” is a fast-paced adventure film with a mix of humor, suspense, and action. It is notable for its stylish art deco sets and its memorable performances by the ensemble cast.

Directors:
James P. Hogan

Writer:
Stuart Palmer, Garnett Weston, Herman C. McNeile

Stars:
John Howard, Heather Angel, H.B. Warner

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Beat the Devil (1954)
4/5 (1)

“Beat the Devil” is a 1954 adventure-comedy film directed by John Huston and written by Huston and Truman Capote. The film stars Humphrey Bogart, Jennifer Jones, Gina Lollobrigida, and Peter Lorre.

The story follows a group of international adventurers who gather in a small Italian coastal town while waiting for a ship to take them to East Africa. Among the group are Billy Dannreuther (Bogart) and his wife Maria (Jones), a British couple (Edward Underdown and Ivor Barnard), a German (Peter Lorre), and a beautiful Italian woman (Gina Lollobrigida).

The group is approached by a mysterious stranger named Peterson (Robert Morley), who offers them a chance to invest in a uranium mine in Africa. The group agrees to the offer, but soon realizes that Peterson is not what he seems and that they are caught up in a dangerous game of deception and betrayal.

As they wait for their ship to arrive, the group becomes embroiled in a series of misadventures, including car chases, plane crashes, and encounters with dangerous criminals. Along the way, they must outwit Peterson and his henchmen, who are determined to get their hands on the uranium mine.

In the end, the group manages to foil Peterson’s plans and escape with their lives. However, they soon discover that the uranium mine was a hoax, and they have been duped out of their money. Despite this setback, the group remains optimistic and looks forward to their next adventure.

“Beat the Devil” is a witty and entertaining film that satirizes the conventions of the adventure genre. It is also notable for its impressive cast and for being one of the first films to use an improvised script.

Directors:
John Huston

Writer:
Claud Cockburn, Truman Capote, John Huston

Stars:
Humphrey Bogart, Jennifer Jones, Gina Lollobrigida

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Irish Luck (1939)
3/5 (1)

“Irish Luck” is a 1939 American comedy film directed by Howard Bretherton and starring Frankie Darro and Mantan Moreland. The movie follows the misadventures of a young man named Danny O’Neil (played by Darro), who inherits a racehorse named Irish Sweepstakes from his uncle. With the help of his friend and jockey, Mike (played by Moreland), Danny sets out to train the horse and enter him in a big race.

Danny is initially reluctant to take on the responsibility of the horse, but he is convinced by his girlfriend, Joan (played by Sheila Darcy), who believes that Irish Sweepstakes has what it takes to win the race. Danny and Mike work hard to train the horse, but they face numerous obstacles along the way, including a rival horse owned by a wealthy businessman who will stop at nothing to win.

As the day of the race approaches, Danny and Mike must use all of their wit and ingenuity to outsmart their rivals and win the race. Along the way, they are aided by a colorful cast of characters, including a group of Irish stable hands who provide comic relief.

“Irish Luck” is a lighthearted and entertaining film that combines elements of comedy and drama. Frankie Darro and Mantan Moreland deliver strong performances as the likable protagonists, and the film’s plot is engaging and enjoyable. Overall, “Irish Luck” is a fun and engaging film that is sure to entertain audiences of all ages.

Directors:
Howard Bretherton

Writer:
Mary Eunice McCarthy, Charles M. Brown

Stars:
Frankie Darro, Mantan Moreland, Dick Purcell

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Paradise Express (1937)
3/5 (1)

“Paradise Express” is a 1937 American film directed by Joseph Kane and starring Grant Withers and Dorothy Appleby. The movie is a classic B-Western that tells the story of a group of lawmen and outlaws who board a train to transport a notorious criminal to trial. The train becomes the stage for a showdown between the two groups, as they battle to gain control of the prisoner.

The film opens with a robbery, where a band of outlaws led by Trigger Magee (played by Charles Middleton) steals a valuable shipment of gold. The lawmen are hot on their heels and manage to capture Trigger, but they must transport him across the country by train to stand trial. The train is the Paradise Express, and it is filled with a colorful cast of characters, including a newspaper reporter named Steve (played by Grant Withers) and a young woman named Mary (played by Dorothy Appleby).

As the train makes its way across the country, Trigger’s gang attempts to free him by any means necessary, leading to a series of action-packed and suspenseful scenes. Along the way, Steve and Mary fall in love, and Steve finds himself torn between his duty to the law and his feelings for Mary.

Eventually, Trigger’s gang manages to derail the train, and a dramatic shootout ensues. In the end, Trigger is killed, and Steve and Mary are left to continue their romance.

“Paradise Express” is a classic example of the B-Western genre, with its fast-paced action, dramatic confrontations, and colorful characters. It was a popular film at the time of its release and has since become a favorite among fans of classic Westerns.

Directors:
Joseph Kane

Writer:
Jack Natteford, Betty Burbridge, Allan Vaughan Elston

Stars:
Grant Withers, Dorothy Appleby, Arthur Hoyt

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Night Nurse (1931)
4.5/5 (2)

“Night Nurse” is a pre-code Hollywood film released in 1931. The film is directed by William A. Wellman and stars Barbara Stanwyck, Clark Gable, and Joan Blondell.

The story follows Lora Hart (Barbara Stanwyck), a nurse who takes on a new job as a night nurse for two young girls, who are being cared for by their wealthy but neglectful mother (Charlotte Merriam) and their alcoholic father (Ben Lyon). Lora quickly realizes that the children’s health is in danger due to their father’s heavy drinking and the neglect of their mother, who is more interested in partying than caring for her children.

With the help of her friend and fellow nurse Maloney (Joan Blondell) and a young ambulance driver named Nick (Clark Gable), Lora tries to protect the children and expose the neglect and abuse they are suffering. However, their efforts are met with resistance from the family’s lawyer and a corrupt doctor who are determined to keep the truth hidden.

As Lora fights to save the children, she also finds herself falling for Nick, but their relationship is complicated by his criminal past and the danger it poses to her and the children.

The film is notable for its portrayal of social issues such as child neglect and corruption, as well as its strong female lead and frank depiction of sexuality and violence. It was also one of the first films to feature the pairing of Barbara Stanwyck and Clark Gable, who would go on to become two of Hollywood’s biggest stars.

Directors:
William A. Wellman

Writer:
Grace Perkins, Oliver H.P. Garrett, Charles Kenyon

Stars:
Barbara Stanwyck, Ben Lyon, Joan Blondell

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So’s Your Aunt Emma (1942)
3/5 (1)

“So’s Your Aunt Emma” is a comedy film released in 1942, directed by Jean Yarbrough and starring Zasu Pitts, Roger Pryor, and Warren Hymer. The story revolves around a group of gangsters who hide out in the home of a sweet, elderly woman named Emma (played by Pitts) while they plan their next heist.

Emma is completely unaware of her houseguests’ true identities and believes them to be respectable businessmen. However, things start to go awry when Emma’s niece and her fiancé become suspicious of the strange men in the house.

As the plot thickens, the gangsters find themselves being pursued by both the police and a rival gang, forcing them to make a daring escape while Emma and her niece are caught in the middle of the chaos.

Despite the danger and confusion, Emma proves to be a savvy and resourceful woman, using her wits and charm to help her family and outsmart the gangsters. In the end, the criminals are caught and Emma is hailed as a hero.

The film is known for its slapstick humor and zany characters, with Zasu Pitts delivering a memorable performance as the lovable and unsuspecting Emma. “So’s Your Aunt Emma” remains a charming and entertaining example of classic Hollywood comedy.

Directors:
Jean Yarbrough

Writer:
George Bricker, Edmond Kelso, Harry Hervey

Stars:
Zasu Pitts, Roger Pryor, Warren Hymer

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Oh, Mr. Porter! (1937)
4.75/5 (4)

“Oh, Mr. Porter!” is a British comedy film released in 1937, directed by Marcel Varnel and starring Will Hay, Moore Marriott, and Graham Moffatt. The film tells the story of a bumbling railway stationmaster named William Porter (played by Will Hay) who is transferred to a remote station in Northern Ireland.

Upon arriving at the station, Porter discovers that his staff consists of two elderly and incompetent assistants, Harbottle (played by Moore Marriott) and Albert (played by Graham Moffatt). Despite their shortcomings, Porter tries to make the best of the situation and keep the station running smoothly.

However, things quickly go awry when Porter mistakenly allows a group of Irish rebels to board a train and escape from the police. He also becomes entangled in a plot to steal a valuable painting, and finds himself on the wrong side of the law.

Despite his misadventures, Porter manages to win the hearts of the locals and even finds love with a local girl named Moira (played by Anne Firth). In the end, he saves the day by apprehending the thieves and restoring order to the station.

“Oh, Mr. Porter!” is a classic British comedy that showcases the talents of Will Hay, Moore Marriott, and Graham Moffatt. The film’s slapstick humor and witty dialogue have made it a favorite among audiences for generations.

Directors:
Marcel Varnel

Writer:
Frank Launder, J.O.C. Orton, Val Guest

Stars:
Will Hay, Moore Marriott, Graham Moffatt

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Private Snuffy Smith (1942)
3/5 (1)

“Private Snuffy Smith” is a comedy film released in 1942, directed by Edward F. Cline and starring Bud Duncan, Edgar Kennedy, and Sarah Padden.

The film tells the story of Snuffy Smith (Bud Duncan), a lazy hillbilly who is drafted into the Army during World War II. Snuffy is initially resistant to military life and spends much of his time avoiding work and causing trouble.

However, Snuffy’s life takes a turn when he falls in love with a nurse named Miss Dottie (Mary Ainslee). To impress her, Snuffy decides to shape up and become a model soldier.

As Snuffy begins to take his military duties seriously, he also helps his fellow soldiers in various ways, such as by using his hunting skills to provide food for the unit.

The film features several humorous moments, including Snuffy’s attempts to master military drill and his interactions with the strict Sergeant McGurk (Edgar Kennedy).

In the end, Snuffy proves himself as a loyal and capable soldier, and he is awarded a medal for his bravery.

“Private Snuffy Smith” was made during World War II and served as a lighthearted reminder of the importance of patriotism and service to one’s country. The film combined comedy with elements of drama and romance, and featured a colorful cast of characters. It remains a nostalgic look back at the wartime era and a reminder of the spirit of American resilience and humor.

Directors:
Edward F. Cline

Writer:
Billy DeBeck, John Grey, Jack Henley

Stars:
Bud Duncan, Edgar Kennedy, Sarah Padden

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Private Buckaroo (1942)
3/5 (1)

“Private Buckaroo” is a musical comedy film released in 1942, directed by Edward F. Cline and starring The Andrews Sisters, Dick Foran, and Joe E. Lewis.

The film tells the story of a group of new recruits who join the Army during World War II. Among the recruits is Johnny Jones (Dick Foran), a talented singer who is encouraged to audition for a spot in the Army band by the famous Andrews Sisters.

As the recruits train and prepare for battle, they also participate in various musical performances and comedy routines. The film features several musical numbers performed by The Andrews Sisters, including their hit song “Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree.”

Along the way, the recruits face various challenges and obstacles, including a tough drill sergeant (played by Joe E. Lewis) and a rival Army unit led by a scheming officer (played by Harry James).

As the film reaches its climax, the recruits are called into action and must put their training to the test on the battlefield. In the end, they prove themselves as brave and capable soldiers, while also entertaining their fellow soldiers with their musical talents.

“Private Buckaroo” was made during World War II as a morale booster for American soldiers and civilians. The film combines elements of comedy, music, and patriotism, and features some of the era’s most popular entertainers. It remains a nostalgic look back at the wartime era and a testament to the spirit of American patriotism and resilience.

Directors:
Edward F. Cline

Writer:
Edmond Kelso, Edward James, Paul Gerard Smith

Stars:
Harry James, Patty Andrews, Maxene Andrews

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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)