Black & White Movies

Crime

Hell Ship Mutiny (1957)
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“Hell Ship Mutiny” is a 1957 adventure film directed by Lee Sholem and Elmo Williams. The film is loosely based on the true story of the mutiny on the slave ship Amistad in 1839.

The story takes place aboard a slave ship, the Amalia, in the early 19th century. The ship is on a long voyage from Africa to Cuba, carrying a cargo of slaves. The crew, led by Captain Tomassi (Jon Hall), treats the slaves cruelly and brutally.

As the voyage continues, tensions rise among the crew, and the slaves begin to plot a mutiny. The leader of the slaves, Tambo (Peter Coe), is determined to lead his people to freedom, no matter the cost.

When the mutiny finally occurs, it is a violent and bloody affair. The crew fights back fiercely, but Tambo and his fellow slaves manage to gain control of the ship.

But the journey to freedom is not over yet. The ship is now adrift, with no clear direction or destination. The crew and the slaves must work together to survive, and to find a way to reach land.

As they struggle to stay alive, they also face a series of moral dilemmas. The crew must decide whether to continue their brutal treatment of the slaves, or to treat them as equals. The slaves, meanwhile, must decide whether to seek revenge against their captors, or to forgive and move on.

In the end, “Hell Ship Mutiny” is a powerful story of survival, freedom, and redemption, set against the backdrop of one of the darkest chapters in human history.

Directors:
Lee Sholem, Elmo Williams

Writer:
DeVallon Scott, Wells Root

Stars:
Jon Hall, John Carradine, Peter Lorre

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The Devil Diamond (1937)
3/5 (1)

“The Devil Diamond” is a novel written by Scottish author, Michael Arlen, first published in 1937. The story is set in the fictional African country of Rholandia and revolves around the discovery and pursuit of a rare and valuable diamond known as the “Devil Diamond.”

The novel begins with the arrival of American adventurer, John Christopher, in Rholandia. Christopher is hired by a wealthy Englishman, Sir Charles Vandrift, to search for the Devil Diamond, which is said to be cursed and bring bad luck to its owner. Sir Charles hopes to find the diamond and destroy it to rid his family of the curse.

Christopher is joined on his mission by the beautiful and mysterious Zita, who has her own motives for finding the diamond. Together, they set off on a perilous journey through the jungle, encountering various obstacles and dangers along the way, including hostile tribes, wild animals, and treacherous terrain.

As they get closer to finding the diamond, they are pursued by a group of ruthless diamond hunters, led by the cunning and sadistic Gaspard Jarnot. Jarnot will stop at nothing to get his hands on the Devil Diamond, and he will go to great lengths to eliminate anyone who stands in his way.

In the end, Christopher and Zita succeed in finding the Devil Diamond, but they are forced to make a difficult decision about its fate. Meanwhile, Jarnot meets a gruesome end, and Sir Charles and his family are finally free from the curse.

“The Devil Diamond” is a thrilling adventure story that explores the themes of greed, ambition, and the pursuit of wealth at any cost. It is also a tale of love and redemption, as the characters learn valuable lessons about the true meaning of happiness and the importance of human connections.

Directors:
Leslie Goodwins

Writer:
Peter B. Kyne, Charles R. Condon, Sherman L. Lowe

Stars:
Frankie Darro, Kane Richmond, June Gale

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The Pay Off (1942)
2.5/5 (2)

“The Pay Off” is a 1942 crime drama film directed by Arthur Dreifuss and starring Lee Tracy, Tom Brown, and Tina Thayer.

The movie follows the story of Jim Hanvey (Lee Tracy), a tough private investigator who is hired by a wealthy businessman to recover some stolen jewels. Jim’s investigation leads him to a nightclub owned by a ruthless gangster named Nick Ferraro (Jack La Rue).

As Jim tries to gather evidence against Ferraro, he becomes entangled in a web of corruption, deceit, and violence. He also finds himself drawn to Ferraro’s attractive girlfriend, Kay Curtis (Tina Thayer), who may hold the key to solving the case.

The film features suspenseful chase scenes, shootouts, and a gripping finale as Jim races to expose Ferraro’s criminal activities and bring him to justice.

Overall, “The Pay Off” is a thrilling crime drama that showcases Lee Tracy’s talents as a tough-talking, no-nonsense private eye. The film is notable for its fast-paced action, sharp dialogue, and gritty portrayal of the criminal underworld.

Directors:
Arthur Dreifuss

Writer:
Edward Dein, Arthur Hoerl

Stars:
Lee Tracy, Tom Brown, Tina Thayer

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Here’s Flash Casey (1938)
3/5 (1)

“Here’s Flash Casey” is a 1938 crime drama directed by Lynn Shores and starring Eric Linden, Boots Mallory, and C. Aubrey Smith. The film follows the story of a newspaper photographer who becomes embroiled in a dangerous criminal plot.

The film centers around Flash Casey (Eric Linden), a young and ambitious newspaper photographer who is always looking for the next big scoop. When a notorious gangster is murdered, Flash sees it as a chance to make a name for himself and sets out to investigate the case. Along the way, he meets a beautiful woman named Miss Foster (Boots Mallory), who may have information about the killer.

As Flash delves deeper into the case, he becomes the target of the gangster’s henchmen, who will stop at nothing to protect their boss’s interests. Flash must use all of his wits and cunning to stay one step ahead of the criminals and uncover the truth behind the murder.

Flash is aided in his investigation by his editor, Pappy (C. Aubrey Smith), who provides him with valuable information and guidance. Together, they work to expose the criminal plot and bring the murderers to justice.

“Here’s Flash Casey” is a thrilling crime drama with a fast-paced plot and a strong cast. It explores themes of corruption, power, and the power of the press. The film remains a classic example of the crime film genre of the 1930s and is a must-see for fans of the genre.

Directors:
Lynn Shores

Writer:
John W. Krafft, George Harmon Coxe

Stars:
Eric Linden, Boots Mallory, Cully Richards

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Crime, Inc. (1945)
3/5 (1)

“Crime, Inc.” is a 1945 crime film directed by Lew Landers and starring Leo Carrillo, Tom Neal, and Martha Tilton. The film tells the story of a journalist who goes undercover to expose a powerful organized crime syndicate.

The film follows the story of Tom Dean (Tom Neal), a newspaper reporter who is assigned to investigate a string of brutal murders that are believed to be the work of a powerful criminal organization. To get to the bottom of the case, Tom goes undercover and poses as a small-time crook looking to join the syndicate.

Tom soon discovers that the syndicate is run by a ruthless boss named “Mr. Big” (Leo Carrillo), who will stop at nothing to protect his interests. Tom’s investigation takes him deep into the criminal underworld, where he meets a cast of colorful characters, including a nightclub singer named Lila (Martha Tilton) who becomes his ally.

As Tom gets closer to uncovering the truth, he becomes the target of the syndicate’s deadly enforcers. He must use all of his wits and resourcefulness to stay alive and bring the criminals to justice.

“Crime, Inc.” is a gripping crime thriller with a noirish atmosphere and a strong cast. It explores themes of corruption, power, and the struggle between good and evil. The film remains a classic example of the crime film genre of the 1940s and a must-see for fans of the genre.

Directors:
Lew Landers

Writer:
Raymond L. Schrock, Martin Mooney

Stars:
Leo Carrillo, Tom Neal, Martha Tilton

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Below the Deadline (1936)
3/5 (1)

“Below the Deadline” is a 1936 crime drama directed by Charles Lamont and starring Warren Hull, Doris Weston, and Henry Mollison. The film follows the story of a newspaper reporter who investigates a murder case and uncovers a web of deceit and corruption.

The film centers around Tom Dickson (Warren Hull), a young reporter who works for a struggling newspaper. When a prominent businessman is found murdered in his office, Tom sees it as a chance to make a name for himself and sets out to investigate the case. He soon discovers that the victim was involved in a shady real estate deal and that several people had a motive for his murder.

As Tom delves deeper into the case, he becomes the target of a powerful criminal organization that is determined to stop him from uncovering the truth. He is aided in his investigation by his girlfriend, Grace Bradshaw (Doris Weston), and his editor, Bill Harris (Harvey Stephens), but they soon find themselves in danger as well.

Tom’s investigation leads him to a dangerous criminal mastermind named “The Chief” (Henry Mollison), who will stop at nothing to protect his interests. Tom and his allies must race against time to expose the truth and bring the criminals to justice before they become the next victims.

“Below the Deadline” is a gripping crime drama with a fast-paced plot and a strong cast. It explores themes of corruption and the power of the press, and it remains a classic example of the crime film genre of the 1930s.

Directors:
Charles Lamont

Writer:
Ewart Adamson

Stars:
Cecilia Parker, Russell Hopton, Theodore von Eltz

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Escape By Night (1937)
3/5 (1)

“Escape by Night” is a 1937 American crime drama film directed by Hamilton MacFadden. The movie stars William Hall, Anne Nagel, and Dean Jagger.

The story revolves around a gang of bank robbers who plan to rob a bank in a small town. The robbers manage to escape with the loot but are pursued by the police. One of the robbers, Steve (William Hall), is separated from his accomplices and ends up taking refuge in a farmhouse, where he meets and falls in love with Jean (Anne Nagel), the farmer’s daughter. Jean initially doesn’t know that Steve is a criminal but eventually discovers his true identity. Steve, meanwhile, is torn between his love for Jean and his loyalty to his fellow robbers.

As the police close in on the robbers, Steve must make a choice between escaping with the loot and leaving Jean behind or staying with Jean and risking capture. The climax of the movie takes place during a violent shootout between the robbers and the police.

Overall, “Escape by Night” is a tense and suspenseful film that explores the themes of love, loyalty, and betrayal. The film has been praised for its strong performances and well-crafted storyline.

Directors:
Hamilton MacFadden

Writer:
Harold Shumate

Stars:
William Hall, Anne Nagel, Dean Jagger

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Night Nurse (1931)
4/5 (1)

“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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Judex (1963)
4/5 (1)

“Judex” is a French crime thriller film released in 1963, directed by Georges Franju and starring Channing Pollock and Francine Bergé. The film is a modern retelling of the silent film serial of the same name from 1916.

The story follows Judex (played by Channing Pollock), a masked vigilante who seeks revenge against a corrupt banker named Favraux (played by Michel Vitold). Favraux had swindled Judex’s father out of his fortune, causing him to die in poverty.

Judex kidnaps Favraux and puts him on trial for his crimes. However, he is interrupted by the arrival of a beautiful woman named Diana Monti (played by Francine Bergé), who has her own plans for Favraux’s money. Diana is a member of a criminal organization and seeks to use Favraux’s money to fund their illegal activities.

As Judex and Diana clash over Favraux’s fate, they both become embroiled in a web of intrigue and danger. Along the way, they encounter a cast of eccentric characters, including a clown, a magician, and a loyal servant named Cocantin (played by René Génin).

In the end, Judex is able to bring Favraux to justice and foil Diana’s plans. The film ends with Judex revealing his true identity and disappearing into the night.

“Judex” is a stylish and suspenseful crime thriller that showcases director Georges Franju’s unique visual style. The film’s intricate plot and intriguing characters make it a standout of the genre, and its combination of action, romance, and mystery has made it a cult classic among film buffs.

Directors:
Georges Franju

Writer:
Arthur Bernède, Louis Feuillade, Jacques Champreux

Stars:
Channing Pollock, Francine Bergé, Edith Scob

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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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Voodoo Man (1944)
4/5 (2)

“Voodoo Man” is a horror film released in 1944, directed by William Beaudine and produced by Sam Katzman. The film features a cast of horror icons, including Bela Lugosi, George Zucco, and John Carradine.

The story revolves around Dr. Richard Marlowe (Bela Lugosi), a mad scientist who practices voodoo in an attempt to resurrect his deceased wife, who he believes has been reincarnated in the form of a young woman named Angela (Wanda McKay). To achieve his goal, Marlowe kidnaps young women and uses them as sacrifices in his voodoo rituals.

Meanwhile, a group of travelers, including Betty (Louise Currie) and her fiancé Ted (Michael Ames), become stranded near Marlowe’s estate and are taken in by Angela. As they become more involved in the strange events around them, they begin to suspect that something sinister is happening at the estate.

As Marlowe’s experiments become increasingly dangerous, the travelers and Angela work together to try to stop him and his nefarious plans. Along the way, they encounter strange occurrences and supernatural forces, leading to a final confrontation between Marlowe and the group.

The film’s campy and over-the-top performances, combined with its mix of horror and comedy, have made it a cult classic among horror fans. Despite its flaws, “Voodoo Man” remains a fun and entertaining example of 1940s horror cinema.

Directors:
William Beaudine

Writer:
Robert Charles

Stars:
Bela Lugos, John Carradine, George Zucco

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Woman on the Run (1950)
4.33/5 (3)

“Woman on the Run” is a film noir directed by Norman Foster and released in 1950. The film tells the story of a manhunt for a witness in a murder case, who goes on the run after she learns that she is the killer’s next target.

The film begins with a murder in San Francisco, where a man is gunned down in the street. The killer, who is a member of a notorious gang, is caught by the police, but the only witness to the crime, the victim’s estranged wife, Eleanor Johnson (played by Ann Sheridan), goes missing.

The police enlist the help of Eleanor’s husband, Frank (played by Ross Elliott), to help track her down. Frank, who has been living apart from his wife, hires a private detective, Dan Leggett (played by Dennis O’Keefe), to find her. But as Leggett begins to unravel the mystery, he realizes that there is more to the case than meets the eye.

As Leggett gets closer to the truth, he becomes the target of the killer, and he and Eleanor must work together to survive and clear her name.

“Woman on the Run” is a taut and suspenseful film noir that explores themes of betrayal, loyalty, and the search for truth. It features a standout performance by Ann Sheridan as the strong-willed and determined Eleanor, and Dennis O’Keefe as the tough and savvy detective, Dan Leggett. The film is notable for its stunning location shots of San Francisco and its use of real-life locations to create a gritty and realistic atmosphere. It is widely regarded as one of the most underrated films of the film noir genre.

Directors:
Norman Foster

Writer:
Alan Campbell, Norman Foster, Sylvia Tate

Stars:
Stars
Ann Sheridan, Dennis O’Keefe, Robert Keith

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Waterfront (1944)
3/5 (1)

“Waterfront” is a crime drama film directed by Elia Kazan and released in 1954. The film is set in the gritty world of the New York City docks and follows the story of a young dockworker, Terry Malloy, who becomes embroiled in a web of corruption and violence.

Terry is a former boxer who works as a “longshoreman” on the waterfront. He is recruited by his brother, Charley, who is involved in a corrupt union led by the powerful Johnny Friendly. Terry unwittingly becomes involved in a murder plot orchestrated by Friendly, and begins to question his loyalty to his brother and the union.

As Terry falls in love with the sister of the murdered man and befriends a crusading priest who is trying to expose the corruption on the waterfront, he must choose between his loyalty to his brother and his desire for justice and redemption.

“Waterfront” is a powerful and gripping film that explores themes of loyalty, corruption, and redemption. It features stunning performances by Marlon Brando as Terry Malloy, Karl Malden as Father Barry, and Lee J. Cobb as Johnny Friendly. The film is notable for its realistic portrayal of the gritty world of the New York City docks and its searing indictment of corruption and violence. It has become a classic of American cinema and is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made.

Directors:
Steve Sekely

Writer:
Martin Mooney, Irwin Franklyn

Stars:
John Carradine, J. Carrol Naish, Maris Wrixon

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The Green Glove (1952)
3/5 (1)

“The Green Glove” is a 1952 adventure film directed by Rudolph Maté and starring Glenn Ford and Geraldine Brooks. The film follows the story of a World War II veteran named Michael Blake, who becomes embroiled in a dangerous treasure hunt in post-war France.

Blake (played by Ford) is searching for a legendary glove made of emeralds, which is said to have been hidden during the war. His search leads him to a small town in France, where he meets a mysterious woman named Christelle (played by Brooks) who claims to have knowledge of the glove’s whereabouts.

As Blake and Christelle embark on their quest, they encounter a variety of dangerous characters, including a band of thieves who are also searching for the glove. Along the way, they are pursued by the police, who suspect them of being involved in a recent robbery.

As the plot thickens, Blake and Christelle must use all their wits and resources to outsmart their enemies and uncover the truth about the glove’s location. The film builds to a thrilling climax as the characters race to find the treasure before it falls into the wrong hands.

“The Green Glove” is a suspenseful and exciting adventure film that features stunning French locations and a talented cast. Ford is charismatic as the film’s hero, and Brooks brings a touch of mystery and intrigue to her role. The film’s fast-paced action and intricate plot twists make it a must-see for fans of classic adventure movies.

Directors:
Rudolph Maté

Writer:
Charles Bennett

Stars:
Glenn Ford, Geraldine Brooks, Cedric Hardwicke

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Black & White Series

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