Black & White Movies

Comedy

Cottage to Let (1941)
3/5 (1)

“Cottage to Let” is a British comedy thriller film released in 1941, directed by Anthony Asquith and starring Leslie Banks, Alastair Sim, and John Mills. The film is set in a remote Scottish cottage during World War II and follows a group of eccentric characters whose paths intersect in unexpected ways.

The story revolves around the cottage’s owner, Charles Dimble (Leslie Banks), a retired army officer who now rents out the cottage to a variety of tenants. One of his current tenants is an absent-minded inventor named John Barrington (John Mills), who is working on a secret invention for the war effort. Another tenant is a young woman named Peggy (Jeanne De Casalis), who is due to give birth soon.

One night, a group of Nazi spies, led by the sinister Dr. Meinhold (George Cole), arrives at the cottage, believing that it is the location of Barrington’s secret invention. They are soon joined by a mysterious stranger named Richard Foley (Alastair Sim), who claims to be an air raid warden but may have his own agenda.

As the various characters interact, misunderstandings and mistaken identities abound, leading to a series of humorous and suspenseful situations. Along the way, the characters must also deal with bombings, air raids, and the arrival of the police.

The film has a lighthearted tone but also touches on the serious themes of war and espionage. It was well-received upon its release and has since become a classic of British cinema, known for its witty dialogue, clever plot twists, and memorable performances.

Directors:
Anthony Asquith

Writer:
Geoffrey Kerr, Anatole de Grunwald, J.O.C. Orton

Stars:
Leslie Banks, Alastair Sim, Jeanne De Casalis

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Bela Lugosi Meets a Brooklyn Gorilla (1952)
3/5 (1)

“Bela Lugosi Meets a Brooklyn Gorilla” is a low-budget comedy film from 1952, directed by William Beaudine. The film follows two nightclub performers, Duke Mitchell and Sammy Petrillo, who are stranded on a tropical island after their plane crashes. They soon discover that the island is inhabited by a mad scientist, Dr. Zabor (played by Bela Lugosi), who has been experimenting on animals to turn them into humans.

Dr. Zabor mistakes Duke for a famous scientist he has been waiting for and decides to use him in his experiments. Meanwhile, Sammy falls in love with Nona, a native girl who has been turned into a gorilla by Dr. Zabor’s experiments. The rest of the film follows the duo’s attempts to escape the island and foil Dr. Zabor’s evil plans.

The film is known for its bizarre plot, cheesy special effects, and amateurish acting. Despite being panned by critics upon its release, it has gained a cult following over the years and is often cited as an example of “so bad it’s good” cinema.

Directors:
William Beaudine

Writer:
Tim Ryan, Leo ‘Ukie’ Sherin, Edmond Seward

Stars:
Bela Lugosi, Duke Mitchell, Sammy Petrillo

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Ghost Patrol (1936)
3/5 (1)

“Ghost Patrol” is a 1936 comedy-mystery film directed by Sam Newfield. The story follows a group of amateur radio enthusiasts who stumble upon a plot by gangsters to steal a valuable invention.

The film’s protagonist is Jerry Davis, played by Tim McCoy, a radio engineer who is part of a group of amateur radio enthusiasts known as the “Ghost Patrol.” The group spends their time experimenting with radio technology and communicating with each other through their radio sets.

One day, Jerry and his friends overhear a conversation between a group of gangsters who are planning to steal a new invention from a scientist named Dr. Bentley. The invention is a device that can detect and neutralize deadly gases, making it a valuable weapon in the wrong hands.

Jerry and his friends decide to investigate and, with the help of a reporter named Jean, played by Claudia Dell, they set out to stop the gangsters and save Dr. Bentley’s invention.

As they work to unravel the mystery, the Ghost Patrol encounters numerous obstacles, including a treacherous mountain road and a gang of thugs who are determined to stop them. They also discover that one of their own members may be working with the gangsters.

In the end, the Ghost Patrol succeeds in foiling the gangsters’ plans and recovering Dr. Bentley’s invention. The film concludes with Jerry and Jean falling in love and the Ghost Patrol continuing their adventures in the world of amateur radio.

Overall, “Ghost Patrol” is a lighthearted and entertaining film that combines elements of comedy, mystery, and action. It celebrates the ingenuity and resourcefulness of amateur radio enthusiasts while also providing a thrilling and suspenseful storyline.

Directors:
Sam Newfield

Writer:
Wyndham Gittens

Stars:
Tim McCoy, Claudia Dell, Walter Miller

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Dr. Pyckle and Mr. Pryde (1925)
3/5 (1)

“Dr. Pyckle and Mr. Pryde” is a 1925 silent film directed by Scott Pembroke and starring Stan Laurel.

The film is a parody of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,” with Laurel playing the dual roles of Dr. Pyckle and Mr. Pryde. In this version, Dr. Pyckle is a kindly scientist who invents a potion that he believes will bring out the best in people. However, the potion has the unintended side effect of turning him into the evil and monstrous Mr. Pryde.

As Mr. Pryde, Laurel wreaks havoc on the city, causing chaos and destruction wherever he goes. Meanwhile, Dr. Pyckle desperately tries to find a way to reverse the effects of the potion and put an end to Mr. Pryde’s reign of terror.

“Dr. Pyckle and Mr. Pryde” is a hilarious and inventive parody, showcasing Laurel’s comedic talents and skillful use of physical comedy. The film’s special effects and makeup are also impressive for their time, with Laurel’s transformation from Dr. Pyckle to Mr. Pryde being a standout moment. Despite being a parody, the film still manages to capture the eerie and unsettling tone of the original “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” story.

Directors:
Scott Pembroke, Joe Rock

Writer:
Tay Garnett

Stars:
Stan Laurel, Julie Leonard, The Wonder Dog Pal

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Spider Baby (1968)
3/5 (1)

“Spider Baby” is a 1968 horror-comedy film directed by Jack Hill and starring Lon Chaney Jr., Sid Haig, and Jill Banner.

The film follows the story of the Merrye family, a wealthy family that suffers from a rare genetic disorder that causes them to regress mentally and physically as they age. The three surviving siblings, Virginia (Jill Banner), Elizabeth (Beverly Washburn), and Ralph (Sid Haig), are cared for by their loyal and eccentric chauffeur, Bruno (Lon Chaney Jr.).

When distant relatives arrive at the family’s decrepit mansion to claim their inheritance, they become the prey of the Merrye siblings, who have developed a taste for human flesh. The film follows the siblings’ descent into madness as they plot their next meal, while Bruno desperately tries to keep them under control and protect them from the outside world.

“Spider Baby” is a darkly comedic and unsettling film, with strong performances from the cast and a memorable score by composer Ronald Stein. The film’s twisted sense of humor and bizarre characters have made it a cult classic among horror fans.

Directors:
Jack Hill

Stars:
Nigel Honeybone, Mark Spain, Nikki Vukas

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Angel on My Shoulder (1946)
3/5 (1)

“Angel on My Shoulder” is a 1946 fantasy film directed by Archie Mayo and starring Paul Muni, Anne Baxter, and Claude Rains.

The film follows the story of Eddie Kagle (Paul Muni), a small-time gangster who is murdered by his former partner in crime. Upon arriving in the afterlife, Eddie is greeted by the devil, Nick (Claude Rains), who offers to give him a chance at revenge by possessing the body of a respected judge named Frederick Parker.

Eddie agrees to Nick’s offer and possesses Parker’s body. He quickly begins to make a name for himself as a ruthless and corrupt judge, using his newfound power to settle old scores and make money. However, things take a turn when he falls in love with Barbara Foster (Anne Baxter), the fiancée of the man he was sent to avenge.

As Eddie struggles to balance his desire for revenge with his newfound love for Barbara, he begins to question his decisions and his allegiance to Nick. The film culminates in a dramatic showdown between Eddie, Nick, and Parker’s conscience, as Eddie is forced to confront the consequences of his actions.

“Angel on My Shoulder” is a clever and entertaining take on the classic Faustian tale, with strong performances from the cast and impressive special effects for its time.

Directors:
Archie Mayo

Writer:
Harry Segall, Roland Kibbee

Stars:
Paul Muni, Anne Baxter, Claude Rains

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

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

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

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

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

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

Directors:
Albert S. Rogell

Writer:
John O’Dea, Sidney Salkow

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Directors:
Paul Leni

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

Stars:
Laura La Plante, Creighton Hale, Forrest Stanley

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Two Weeks to Live (1943)
3/5 (1)

“Two Weeks to Live” (1943), directed by Malcolm St. Clair and starring Chester Lauck and Norris Goff as the characters Abner and Lum, respectively. In the film, Abner is mistakenly diagnosed with a rare disease and given only two weeks to live. His partner Lum sees an opportunity to make money by staging a series of dangerous stunts featuring Abner, with the intention of cashing in on the publicity and media attention. However, as the two weeks draw to a close, they realize the error in their ways and the importance of valuing their friendship above money and fame. The film is a comedy and is part of the long-running “Lum and Abner” series.

Directors:
Malcolm St. Clair

Writer:
Michael L. Simmons, Roswell Rogers

Stars:
Chester Lauck, Norris Goff, Franklin Pangborn

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The Man Who Walked Alone (1945)
3/5 (1)

“The Man Who Walked Alone” is a 1945 American film noir directed by Christy Cabanne and starring Dave O’Brien, Kay Aldridge, and Walter Catlett.

O’Brien plays Eddie Taylor, a down-on-his-luck war veteran who arrives in a small town in search of a job. He soon finds work at a local gas station, but his past catches up with him when a former army buddy shows up and tries to involve him in a robbery.

Meanwhile, Eddie becomes romantically involved with Joan Wright (played by Aldridge), a young woman whose father is the wealthy owner of the local oil refinery. But when Joan’s father is murdered, Eddie becomes the prime suspect.

As he tries to clear his name, Eddie uncovers a web of deceit and corruption in the town and must risk his own life to expose the true killer and bring justice to the community.

“The Man Who Walked Alone” is a classic example of film noir, with its dark themes of crime, betrayal, and corruption. It also features strong performances from its cast, particularly O’Brien in the lead role. The film is noted for its atmospheric cinematography and moody score, and is considered a cult classic among fans of the genre.

Directors:
Christy Cabanne

Writer:
Christy Cabanne, Robert Lee Johnson

Stars:
Dave O’Brien, Kay Aldridge, Walter Catlett

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The Amazing Adventure (1936)
3/5 (1)

“The Amazing Adventure” is a 1936 British comedy film directed by Alfred Zeisler and starring Cary Grant, Mary Brian, and Peter Gawthorne.

Grant plays Ernest Bliss, a wealthy young man who is bored with his life and decides to wager his entire fortune that he can live for a year without any of his current luxuries or money. His solicitor (played by Gawthorne) accepts the bet, and Bliss sets off to live a life of poverty.

He soon discovers that life without money is much harder than he anticipated, but he manages to find work as a dishwasher and befriends a struggling actress named Peggy (played by Brian). The two fall in love, but Bliss refuses to tell Peggy about his true identity or his bet.

As the year draws to a close, Bliss must decide whether to reveal his true identity and win the bet or to continue living a life of poverty with Peggy. In the end, he chooses love over money and gives up his fortune to be with Peggy.

The film was a critical and commercial success, and is considered one of Cary Grant’s early breakthrough roles. It is also noted for its comedic and satirical commentary on wealth and class.

Directors:
Alfred Zeisler

Writer:
E. Phillips Oppenheim, John L. Balderston

Stars:
Cary Grant, Mary Brian, Peter Gawthorne

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Three Ages (1923)
3/5 (1)

“Three Ages” is a silent comedy film released in 1923 and directed by Buster Keaton and Edward F. Cline. The movie is a parody of D.W. Griffith’s “Intolerance” and tells three parallel stories set in different historical eras, each depicting the trials and tribulations of a young man trying to win the heart of his love interest.

The first story takes place in prehistoric times and follows the adventures of a caveman, played by Buster Keaton, who competes for the love of a woman with a rival tribe. The caveman must use all his wit and strength to win the heart of the woman he loves and escape the dangers of the primitive world around him.

The second story takes place in ancient Rome and follows the exploits of a young gladiator, also played by Buster Keaton, who falls in love with a woman of high social status. He must navigate the dangerous world of the Roman aristocracy and fight off a rival suitor in order to win her heart.

The third and final story takes place in the modern era and follows the misadventures of a young man, played by Buster Keaton, who is trying to win the heart of a woman in the city. He must contend with modern technology and the fast pace of city life while trying to win her affections.

In the end, all three stories converge in a final scene that sees the three main characters of each era meet each other and embrace, symbolizing the timeless nature of love and the universality of human experience.

“Three Ages” was Buster Keaton’s first feature-length film as a director, and it showcased his trademark physical comedy and acrobatics. The film was well-received by critics and audiences alike and helped establish Keaton as one of the most talented and innovative filmmakers of his time.

Directors:
Edward F. Cline, Buster Keaton

Writer:
Clyde Bruckman, Joseph A. Mitchell, Jean C. Havez

Stars:
Buster Keaton, Margaret Leahy, Wallace Beery

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The Navigator (1924)
4/5 (1)

“The Navigator” is a silent comedy film released in 1924 and directed by Donald Crisp and Buster Keaton. The movie stars Buster Keaton as Rollo Treadway, a wealthy young man who sets out to impress his love interest Betsy O’Brien, played by Kathryn McGuire.

The movie begins with Rollo discovering that Betsy has rejected his marriage proposal. Determined to win her heart, Rollo decides to embark on a trip around the world, but instead of traveling by ship with a large crew, he sets out with just himself and his trusty servant, played by Frederick Vroom.

After a series of mishaps and misadventures, Rollo and his servant end up stranded on a deserted ship, the Navigator. They soon realize that the ship has been taken over by a group of anarchists who plan to use it to attack New York City.

With no experience at sea, Rollo and his servant must figure out how to operate the ship and stop the anarchists from carrying out their plan. Along the way, they encounter a number of obstacles and challenges, including a stormy sea, a giant octopus, and a malfunctioning diving suit.

In the end, Rollo and his servant are able to stop the anarchists and bring the ship safely back to port. Rollo also finally wins Betsy’s heart, and they decide to get married. The movie ends with Rollo and Betsy sailing off into the sunset on the Navigator.

Directors:
Donald Crisp, Buster Keaton

Writer:
Clyde Bruckman, Joseph A. Mitchell, Jean C. Havez

Stars:
Buster Keaton, Kathryn McGuire, Frederick Vroom

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The Play House (1921)
4/5 (1)

“The Play House” is a silent short film released in 1921 and directed by Buster Keaton and Edward F. Cline. The film follows Buster Keaton’s character, who works as a stagehand in a theater.

One day, he’s given the opportunity to audition for a role in a play. Buster’s character plays multiple roles, including the conductor, a member of the audience, and all the actors in the play.

As the play progresses, chaos ensues, and the lines between reality and the performance start to blur. Buster’s character finds himself facing multiple challenges, including dealing with the backstage antics of his fellow performers, a fight between the orchestra and the audience, and the collapse of the entire theater.

Despite the challenges, Buster manages to complete the play and win over the audience. The film ends with Buster receiving a standing ovation from the audience and being congratulated by the theater manager.

“The Play House” is known for its inventive visual effects, including a sequence where Buster’s character plays all the parts in the play. The film showcases Buster’s physical comedy and his ability to create comedic situations out of everyday objects and situations. It’s considered one of his early classics and helped establish him as a major star in the silent film era.

Directors:
Edward F. Cline, Buster Keaton

Writer:
Edward F. Cline, Buster Keaton

Stars:
Buster Keaton, Edward F. Cline, Monte Collins

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The Haunted House (1921)
4/5 (1)

“The Haunted House” is a silent short film released in 1921 and directed by Buster Keaton and Edward F. Cline. The film follows Buster Keaton’s character, a bank clerk who finds himself stuck in a haunted house after being chased by a cop for a misunderstanding.

As Buster tries to find a way out, he encounters ghosts, hidden passages, and secret rooms. He meets a group of thieves who are trying to steal a hidden treasure from the house. Buster, initially mistaken as one of the thieves, decides to help them in exchange for their help to escape from the house.

The group faces a series of mishaps and comical situations while trying to steal the treasure, including trying to escape from the house while being chased by a cop. In the end, the group discovers that the “ghosts” were actually part of an elaborate scheme to scare away anyone who might try to steal the treasure.

Buster and the thieves manage to escape with the treasure, but they are chased by the cop again. Buster uses his wit to outsmart the cop and keep the treasure for himself.

“The Haunted House” is known for its physical comedy, visual gags, and inventive stunts, which were a hallmark of Buster Keaton’s films. It’s considered one of his early classics and helped establish him as a major star in the silent film era.

Directors:
Edward F. Cline, Buster Keaton

Writer:
Edward F. Cline, Buster Keaton

Stars:
Buster Keaton, Virginia Fox, Joe Roberts

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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)