Black & White Movies

Drama

Secret Police (1939)
3/5 (1)

“Secret Police” is a crime drama film released in 1939, directed by Edmond T. Gréville. The movie is set in Paris, during the interwar period, and follows the story of Inspector Clément Bonnet, a detective working for the French Secret Police.

The film opens with the assassination of a political figure, which sets off a chain of events that leads Bonnet on a dangerous investigation. As he delves deeper into the case, Bonnet discovers a conspiracy involving a group of international spies, who are plotting to overthrow the French government and install a puppet regime.

With the help of his loyal assistant, Max, Bonnet embarks on a thrilling cat-and-mouse game with the spies, using all of his skills and resources to uncover their plans and bring them to justice.

The film is notable for its atmospheric portrayal of Paris, with stunning shots of the city’s streets, cafes, and landmarks. The performances by the cast, including Jules Berry as Bonnet and Suzy Prim as Max, are also noteworthy, with Berry bringing a charismatic and suave presence to the role of the detective.

Overall, “Secret Police” is a gripping and suspenseful thriller that offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of international espionage and political intrigue. It is a classic of the crime drama genre and remains a favorite among film enthusiasts to this day.

Directors:
James P. Hogan

Writer:
Garnett Weston, Herman C. McNeile

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

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Sherlock Holmes and the Secret Weapon (1943)
3/5 (1)

“Sherlock Holmes and the Secret Weapon” is a classic mystery film released in 1943, starring Basil Rathbone as Sherlock Holmes and Nigel Bruce as Dr. John Watson. The movie is based on the story “The Dancing Men” by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

The film is set in World War II, with Holmes and Watson working to protect a new secret weapon being developed by the British military. However, the weapon’s inventor, Dr. Franz Tobel, has been kidnapped by the Nazis and taken to Germany.

Holmes and Watson are contacted by Tobel’s assistant, Charlotte Eberli, who seeks their help in rescuing Tobel and preventing the Nazis from obtaining the secret weapon. Together, the three embark on a dangerous mission to Germany, where they must outwit Nazi agents and rescue Tobel.

Along the way, they encounter various obstacles and challenges, including a Nazi assassin named Heinrich von Bork, who is determined to stop them at any cost. But with Holmes’ sharp wit and deductive reasoning, and Watson’s loyal support, they manage to uncover the secrets behind Tobel’s invention and thwart the Nazis’ plans.

The film features excellent performances by Rathbone and Bruce, who bring the iconic characters of Holmes and Watson to life. The story is fast-paced and full of twists and turns, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Overall, “Sherlock Holmes and the Secret Weapon” is a thrilling and entertaining movie that combines classic mystery with wartime espionage, and is a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Directors:
Roy William Neill

Writer:
Edward T. Lowe Jr., Scott Darling, Edmund L. Hartmann

Stars:
Basil Rathbone, Nigel Bruce, Lionel Atwill

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Spellbound (1941)
3/5 (1)

“Spellbound” is a classic psychological thriller film released in 1941. The movie follows the story of Dr. Constance Petersen, a young psychoanalyst who works at a mental institution in Vermont.

When the institution’s director, Dr. Anthony Edwardes, arrives, Constance is immediately drawn to him. However, she soon discovers that Edwardes is not who he appears to be. He is suffering from amnesia and is convinced that he has killed the real Dr. Edwardes and taken on his identity.

Constance, with the help of her mentor, Dr. Alexander Brulov, begins to unravel the mystery behind Edwardes’ true identity and what really happened to the real Dr. Edwardes. As the two doctors delve deeper into the case, they uncover a web of deception and psychological trauma that threatens to destroy them both.

As Constance and Edwardes’ relationship deepens, Constance becomes more and more convinced of his innocence, even as the police close in on him. She risks everything to help Edwardes recover his memories and clear his name.

The film is notable for its stunning dream sequence, designed by surrealist artist Salvador Dali, which serves as a visual representation of the characters’ subconscious minds. The performances by the cast, including Ingrid Bergman as Constance and Gregory Peck as Edwardes, are also remarkable.

Overall, “Spellbound” is a gripping and suspenseful thriller that explores the themes of identity, memory, and the power of the mind. It is a classic of the film noir genre and remains a favorite among film enthusiasts to this day.

Directors:
John Harlow

Writer:
Miles Malleson

Stars:
Derek Farr, Vera Lindsay, Hay Petrie

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Scrooge (1935)
3/5 (1)

“Scrooge” is a 1935 British film directed by Henry Edwards and starring Seymour Hicks as Ebenezer Scrooge. The movie is based on Charles Dickens’ famous novel “A Christmas Carol”.

The story follows the life of the miserly and cold-hearted Ebenezer Scrooge, who despises Christmas and everything associated with it. He runs his business with an iron fist, treating his employees poorly and refusing to donate to charity.

On Christmas Eve, Scrooge is visited by the ghost of his former business partner, Jacob Marley, who warns him that he will suffer the same fate unless he changes his ways. Scrooge is then visited by three ghosts: the Ghost of Christmas Past, the Ghost of Christmas Present, and the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come.

Through these visits, Scrooge is shown the errors of his ways, the happiness he has missed out on, and the consequences of his current path. He finally realizes the true meaning of Christmas and becomes a changed man, spreading joy and kindness to those around him.

The film was praised for its faithful adaptation of the novel and Seymour Hicks’ performance as Scrooge. It remains a classic Christmas movie to this day.

Directors:
Henry Edwards

Writer:
Charles Dickens, H. Fowler Mear

Stars:
Seymour Hicks, Donald Calthrop, Robert Cochran

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Return of the Scarlet Pimpernel (1937)
3/5 (1)

“The Return of the Scarlet Pimpernel” is a 1937 British film directed by Hanns Schwarz and starring Barry K. Barnes, Sophie Stewart, and Margaretta Scott. The movie is a sequel to the 1934 film “The Scarlet Pimpernel,” based on the novel by Baroness Orczy.

The film is set in the aftermath of the French Revolution, and it follows the story of Sir Percy Blakeney (Barry K. Barnes), a British aristocrat who secretly operates as the Scarlet Pimpernel, a heroic figure who rescues French aristocrats from execution. Sir Percy’s wife, Marguerite (Sophie Stewart), is unaware of his secret identity.

When a group of French revolutionaries arrive in England seeking to extradite the exiled Duke of Orleans (James Mason), Sir Percy becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of political intrigue. The revolutionaries are led by Chauvelin (Francis Lister), a former adversary of Sir Percy who is determined to capture him and bring him to justice.

As Sir Percy attempts to thwart Chauvelin’s plans and save the Duke of Orleans, Marguerite becomes suspicious of her husband’s activities and begins to investigate. Meanwhile, Sir Percy’s loyal band of followers, known as the League of the Scarlet Pimpernel, aid him in his mission to protect the Duke and defeat Chauvelin.

In the end, Sir Percy is able to outmaneuver Chauvelin and rescue the Duke, but not before Marguerite discovers his secret identity. The film ends with Sir Percy revealing the truth to his wife and pledging to continue his work as the Scarlet Pimpernel.

Directors:
Hanns Schwarz

Writer:
Baroness Emmuska Orczy, Lajos Biró, Arthur Wimperis

Stars:
Barry K. Barnes, Sophie Stewart, Margaretta Scott

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Rain (1932)
3/5 (1)

“Rain” is a novel by W. Somerset Maugham, first published in 1921, and later adapted into a play and several film adaptations. The novel is set in the South Pacific, on the island of Tutuila in American Samoa, and follows the story of a group of travelers who become stranded on the island during a torrential rainstorm.

The main character, Charles Davidson, is a Christian missionary who is traveling to the island of Apia to open a church. He becomes stranded on Tutuila with a group of fellow travelers, including Sadie Thompson, a former prostitute who is on her way to Australia to start a new life. Davidson is immediately drawn to Sadie, but his attempts to convert her to Christianity are met with resistance.

As the rain continues to fall, tensions rise among the group. Davidson becomes increasingly obsessed with saving Sadie’s soul, while Sadie becomes more and more disillusioned with his religion. Eventually, Davidson convinces Sadie to come to his church for a service, but her presence causes a scandal among the islanders. In the end, Sadie is forced to leave Tutuila, and Davidson is left alone to contemplate the limits of his own faith.

The novel is notable for its exploration of themes such as religion, morality, and the clash of cultures, and is considered one of Maugham’s most significant works.

Directors:
Lewis Milestone

Writer:
John Colton, Clemence Randolph, W. Somerset Maugham

Stars:
Joan Crawford, Walter Huston, Fred Howard

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Panic In The Streets (1950)
3/5 (1)

“Panic in the Streets” is a 1950 film noir directed by Elia Kazan. The film is a thriller about a manhunt for a murderer infected with pneumonic plague. The story is set in New Orleans, where a seaman named Ortega is found dead with symptoms of the plague. Dr. Clinton Reed (played by Richard Widmark), a public health official, realizes the danger of an outbreak and tries to convince the authorities to take immediate action to prevent the spread of the disease.

Reed teams up with police captain Tom Warren (played by Paul Douglas) to track down the killer, who is also infected with the plague and could potentially infect others. The manhunt takes them through the dark alleys and seedy underworld of New Orleans, as they search for clues and try to find the killer before he can infect more people.

As they close in on the killer, tensions rise, and the situation becomes more desperate. The clock is ticking as Reed and Warren race against time to find the killer and prevent a deadly epidemic from breaking out.

The film was praised for its realism and suspenseful atmosphere, and it won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. It is considered a classic of the film noir genre and a must-see for fans of suspenseful thrillers.

Directors:
Elia Kazan

Writer:
Richard Murphy, Daniel Fuchs, Edna Anhalt

Stars:
Richard Widmark, Paul Douglas, Barbara Bel Geddes

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Pride and Prejudice (1940)
3/5 (1)

“Pride and Prejudice” is a 1940 romantic drama film directed by Robert Z. Leonard and starring Greer Garson and Laurence Olivier. The film is based on Jane Austen’s classic novel of the same name, published in 1813.

The story is set in rural England during the late 18th century and follows the five Bennett sisters, who are of marriageable age and come from a respectable family, but lack a sizable inheritance. Mrs. Bennett, their mother, is eager to see them all married to wealthy suitors, especially the eldest daughter, Jane.

The story revolves around the romantic relationship between Elizabeth Bennett, the second eldest daughter, and Mr. Darcy, a wealthy and proud gentleman. Despite their initial dislike for each other, they are drawn together as they become more aware of each other’s true character.

Along the way, there are numerous misunderstandings and obstacles to their relationship, including the intervention of Mr. Darcy’s snobbish aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, who disapproves of the match.

The film also features the comedic antics of the Bennett’s eccentric cousin, Mr. Collins, who is intent on marrying one of the Bennett sisters and securing his future inheritance.

In the end, Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy overcome their pride and prejudice to declare their love for each other and embark on a happy future together.

The film was well-received upon its release, with particular praise for Garson’s portrayal of Elizabeth Bennett. It was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and won the Oscar for Best Art Direction.

Directors:
Robert Z. Leonard

Writer:
Aldous Huxley, Jane Murfin, Jane Austen

Stars:
Greer Garson, Laurence Olivier, Mary Boland

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October (1927)
3/5 (1)

October (or Oktyabr) is a 1927 silent historical film directed by Sergei Eisenstein, based on the events of the October Revolution in Russia in 1917. The film was commissioned by the Soviet government to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the revolution.

The film depicts the events leading up to and during the October Revolution, including the overthrow of the Provisional Government, the storming of the Winter Palace, and the establishment of Soviet power. The film’s themes emphasize the role of the masses in the revolution and the importance of collective action.

Eisenstein employed his signature montage technique to create a dynamic and dramatic portrayal of the revolution, with striking visual imagery and symbolism. The film features a large ensemble cast, with notable performances by Nikolai Popov as Lenin and Boris Livanov as Trotsky.

October was a significant achievement in the history of Soviet cinema, and it is regarded as a masterpiece of early Soviet filmmaking. Its innovative approach to filmmaking influenced generations of filmmakers around the world, and it remains a landmark in the history of cinema.

Directors:
Grigoriy Aleksandrov, Sergei Eisenstein

Writer:
Sergei Eisenstein, Grigoriy Aleksandrov, John Reed

Stars:
Boris Livanov, Nikolay Popov, Vasili Nikandrov

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Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939)
4/5 (1)

“Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” is a 1939 American political comedy-drama film directed by Frank Capra and starring James Stewart, Jean Arthur, and Claude Rains. The film tells the story of Jefferson Smith (James Stewart), a naive and idealistic young man who is appointed to the United States Senate by a corrupt political machine.

At first, Smith is overwhelmed by the majesty and history of the Senate, but soon discovers that the political system is rife with corruption and graft. Smith’s attempts to expose the corruption are met with resistance from the political machine, led by Senator Joseph Paine (Claude Rains), who initially took Smith under his wing.

Smith is aided by his cynical and tough-talking assistant, Clarissa Saunders (Jean Arthur), who helps him navigate the treacherous waters of Washington politics. Together, they launch a filibuster on the Senate floor to try to prevent the corrupt bill from being passed.

Throughout the film, Smith’s integrity and idealism are contrasted with the greed and corruption of the political system. The film also portrays the power of the media and the importance of a free press in holding politicians accountable.

In the end, Smith’s filibuster captures the attention of the public, and his idealism and honesty win out over the corrupt political machine. The film is a classic example of Capra’s optimistic and patriotic style, with its celebration of American values and democracy. It was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and remains a beloved classic of American cinema.

Directors:
Frank Capra

Writer:
Sidney Buchman, Lewis R. Foster, Myles Connolly

Stars:
James Stewart, Lean Arthur, Claude Rains

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My Man Godfrey (1936)
4/5 (1)

“My Man Godfrey” is a 1936 American screwball comedy film directed by Gregory La Cava and starring William Powell and Carole Lombard. The film tells the story of a wealthy but eccentric family, the Bullocks, who take on a new butler, Godfrey (William Powell), who turns out to be much more than he appears.

Godfrey is a well-educated and cultured man who has fallen on hard times and is living as a homeless man. When he is discovered by Irene Bullock (Carole Lombard), she hires him to be the family’s butler. Godfrey is initially reluctant, but eventually agrees to the job, finding himself in the middle of the Bullocks’ wacky and unpredictable world.

As Godfrey navigates the quirky and dysfunctional family, he becomes particularly close to the strong-willed Irene, who develops a crush on him. However, Godfrey must also contend with Irene’s jealous sister, Cornelia (Gail Patrick), who tries to sabotage their relationship.

Throughout the film, Godfrey’s wit and intelligence shine through, even as he navigates the various zany situations thrown his way by the Bullocks. The film also tackles issues of class and social status, as Godfrey’s humble origins contrast with the extravagant wealth of the Bullocks.

In the end, Godfrey is revealed to be much more than just a butler, and his true identity and motivations are uncovered. The film is a classic example of a screwball comedy, with its fast-paced dialogue, physical comedy, and over-the-top characters. It was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and remains a beloved classic of the genre.

Directors:
Gregory La Cava

Writer:
Morrie Ryskind, Eric Hatch, Zoe Akins

Stars:
William Powell, Carole Lombard, Alice Brady

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L’Inferno (1911)
3/5 (1)

“L’Inferno” is a silent Italian film, released in 1911 and directed by Francesco Bertolini, Adolfo Padovan, and Giuseppe de Liguoro. It is based on the first part of Dante Alighieri’s “Divine Comedy,” which describes the journey of Dante through the nine circles of Hell.

The film is divided into 34 segments, each corresponding to one of the cantos of the “Inferno.” It begins with Dante being led by the poet Virgil into the dark forest, where he encounters the three beasts of pride, envy, and avarice. Unable to pass, Dante is guided by Virgil through the gates of Hell, where he witnesses the torments of sinners in the first circle of Limbo.

As Dante and Virgil descend further, they encounter the souls of the damned in each of the circles of Hell. These include the lustful, the gluttonous, the wrathful, the heretics, the violent, the fraudulent, and the treacherous. Dante also encounters some of the historical figures and mythological characters who are punished in Hell, including Cleopatra, Julius Caesar, and Ulysses.

The film is notable for its special effects and innovative techniques, including the use of miniatures and hand-painted backdrops to create the various circles of Hell. It also features impressive costumes and makeup to depict the grotesque and terrifying creatures that Dante encounters in Hell.

Overall, “L’Inferno” is a pioneering film that brought one of the most famous literary works of all time to the screen in a stunning and captivating way. It remains a classic of silent cinema and a testament to the power of Dante’s vision of Hell.

Directors:
Francesco Bertolini, Adolfo Padovan, Giuseppe de Liguoro

Writer:
Dante Alighieri

Stars:
Salvatore Papa, Arturo Pirovano, Giuseppe de Liguoro

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Lumberjack (1944)
3/5 (1)

“Lumberjack” is a 1944 American drama film directed by Lesley Selander and starring Nan Grey, Kirby Grant, and Jeff Donnell. The film follows the story of a young woman named Ruth (Nan Grey) who inherits a logging camp in the Pacific Northwest after her father’s death. Despite the doubts of the camp’s foreman, Jim (Kirby Grant), Ruth decides to take over the camp and become a lumberjack.

As Ruth tries to prove herself in a male-dominated industry, she faces various challenges such as hostile employees, equipment malfunctions, and dangerous logging conditions. However, with the help of Jim and her own determination, Ruth succeeds in running the camp and earning the respect of her workers.

Meanwhile, a romance develops between Ruth and Jim, but their relationship is tested when a rival logging company tries to sabotage their operations. Ruth and Jim must work together to overcome the obstacles and save the camp from ruin.

The film features spectacular footage of logging operations in the Pacific Northwest, as well as several musical performances by Kirby Grant. “Lumberjack” is a classic example of a Hollywood studio system-era film, with its strong focus on traditional gender roles and themes of perseverance and romance.

Directors:
Lesley Selander

Writer:
Norman Houston, Barry Shipman, Clarence E. Mulford

Stars:
William Boyd, Andy Clyde, Jimmy Rogers

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In The Wake of the Bounty (1933)
3/5 (1)

“In the Wake of the Bounty” is a drama film directed by Charles Chauvel and released in 1933. The film is based on the real-life mutiny on the British ship HMS Bounty in 1789 and its aftermath.

The story follows the journey of a group of mutineers who have taken control of the ship and set their captain, William Bligh (played by Arthur Greenaway), adrift in a small boat with his loyal followers. The mutineers, led by Fletcher Christian (played by Mayne Lynton), decide to settle on a remote island in the South Pacific.

The film portrays the struggles of the mutineers as they try to build a new life on the island, while facing various challenges such as conflicts between themselves, the harsh environment, and the threat of British naval justice. Meanwhile, Captain Bligh and his crew embark on a perilous journey to seek help and bring the mutineers to justice.

The film explores themes of power, loyalty, betrayal, and survival in a compelling and realistic way. It features breathtaking cinematography of the South Pacific landscapes and impressive sea-faring action sequences. Overall, “In the Wake of the Bounty” is a captivating and dramatic retelling of one of the most infamous events in maritime history.

Directors:
Charles Chauvel

Writer:
Charles Chauvel

Stars:
Arthur Greenaway, Mayne Lynton, Errol Flynn

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His Girl Friday (1940)
5/5 (1)

“His Girl Friday” is a classic screwball comedy film directed by Howard Hawks, released in 1940. The movie is based on the play “The Front Page” by Ben Hecht and Charles MacArthur, which was first adapted for the screen in 1931.

The story revolves around Hildy Johnson (played by Rosalind Russell), a talented and ambitious newspaper reporter who is about to leave her job and get married to her fiancé Bruce Baldwin (played by Ralph Bellamy). However, her ex-husband and editor of the newspaper, Walter Burns (played by Cary Grant), is determined to win her back and keep her on the job.

Walter manipulates the situation and convinces Hildy to cover one last story before leaving, which involves the case of a man who is about to be executed for murder. As Hildy investigates the case, she realizes that the man is innocent and becomes determined to prove it.

In the midst of all this, Hildy and Walter’s old romantic feelings resurface, causing chaos and confusion for everyone involved. The fast-paced, witty dialogue and comedic situations keep the audience on their toes as the story unfolds.

In the end, Hildy’s dedication to the truth and Walter’s determination to win her back lead to a satisfying conclusion for all characters involved, both professionally and romantically. “His Girl Friday” is considered a classic of the screwball comedy genre and is still beloved by audiences today.

Directors:
Howard Hawks

Writer:
Charles Lederer, Ben Hecht, Charles MacArthur

Stars:
Cary Grant, Rosalind Russell, Ralph Bellamy

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Black & White Series

Series List A-Z

Top Rated Moveis

1 Great Expectations (1946)
5/5 (3)
2 The Passion of Joan of Arc (1928)
5/5 (2)
3 His Girl Friday (1940)
5/5 (1)
4 Too Late for Tears (1949)
5/5 (1)
5 The Intruder (1962)
5/5 (1)
6 Arizona Gunfighter (1937)
5/5 (1)
7 Intolerance (1916)
5/5 (1)
8 The Phantom Carriage (1921)
5/5 (1)
9 Charade (1953)
5/5 (1)
10 Strike (1925)
5/5 (1)