Black & White Movies

Mystery

One Body Too Many (1944)
4.71/5 (7)

“One Body Too Many” is a comedy-mystery movie released in 1944. The film follows the adventures of a timid insurance salesman named Albert Tuttle (played by Jack Haley) who visits an old mansion to deliver a large insurance policy to a wealthy millionaire named Cyrus J. Rutherford.

However, upon arriving at the mansion, Tuttle discovers that Rutherford has been murdered and his body has gone missing. The butler of the mansion, played by Bela Lugosi, tells Tuttle that he must keep the murder a secret and find the body before the police do.

Tuttle becomes embroiled in a web of mystery as he meets a cast of eccentric characters who may have had motives to kill Rutherford, including his greedy relatives, his beautiful secretary, and a mysterious woman who claims to be a medium.

As Tuttle tries to solve the murder mystery, he gets into all sorts of slapstick situations and comedic misunderstandings. The film culminates in a dramatic and hilarious finale, with Tuttle finally discovering the identity of the killer and saving the day.

Overall, “One Body Too Many” is a charming and entertaining film that blends comedy and mystery in a unique way, and features a strong cast of talented actors.

Directors:
Frank McDonald

Writer:
Winston Miller, Maxwell Shane

Stars:
Jack Haley, Jean Parker, Bela Lugosi

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Horace Takes Over (One Thrilling Night) (1942)
3/5 (1)

“Horace Takes Over” (also known as “One Thrilling Night”) is a screwball comedy film directed by William Nigh and released in 1942. The movie follows the story of Horace McBride (Jack Haley), a mild-mannered accountant who finds himself caught up in a series of unexpected events.

When Horace arrives at a hotel to meet his fiancée, he discovers that she has gone missing. In her place, he finds a mysterious woman named Janet Martin (Anne Jeffreys), who claims to have information about his missing fiancée.

As Horace and Janet work together to unravel the mystery, they become embroiled in a web of intrigue involving stolen jewels and a dangerous criminal named Lucky Brandon (Bela Lugosi).

Despite their initial mistrust of one another, Horace and Janet begin to develop feelings for each other as they navigate the twists and turns of the investigation. With the help of a bumbling private detective (William Demarest), they eventually solve the case and clear their names.

Overall, “Horace Takes Over” is a fast-paced and entertaining comedy that showcases the talents of its cast. With its clever plot twists and zany humor, it remains a classic example of the screwball comedy genre.

Directors:
William Beaudine

Writer:
Joseph Hoffman

Stars:
John Beal, Wanda McKay, Warren Hymer

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Charade (1953)
5/5 (1)

“Charade” is a 1953 American crime drama film directed by Roy Kellino and starring James Mason, Pamela Mason, and Robert Flemyng.

The film tells the story of a wealthy businessman named Charles Calvin (James Mason), who is found dead in his office under suspicious circumstances. Calvin’s wife, Lucy (Pamela Mason), becomes the prime suspect in the murder, and is forced to go on the run from the police and the real killer.

As Lucy tries to clear her name and solve the mystery of her husband’s death, she becomes entangled with a suave and mysterious stranger named Peter Joshua (Robert Flemyng). Joshua offers to help Lucy uncover the truth behind her husband’s murder, but as the two become closer, Lucy begins to suspect that Joshua may not be who he appears to be.

As Lucy navigates the dangerous world of espionage and deception, she must also confront her own past and the secrets that she has been keeping from those closest to her. In the end, Lucy is able to uncover the truth behind her husband’s murder and find a measure of closure, but not without paying a heavy price.

“Charade” is a gripping and suspenseful thriller that explores the themes of trust, betrayal, and the consequences of past actions. It features strong performances from its lead actors, and is notable for its stylish and sophisticated visuals, as well as its memorable score by composer Dimitri Tiomkin. The film has since become a classic of the film noir genre and a beloved example of mid-century Hollywood cinema.

Directors:
Stanley Donen

Writer:
Peter StoneMarc Behm

Stars:
Cary Grant, Audrey Hepburn, Walter Matthau

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The Crooked Circle (1932)
3/5 (1)

“The Crooked Circle” is a 1932 American mystery film directed by H. Bruce Humberstone and starring Zasu Pitts, James Gleason, and Ben Lyon.

The film revolves around a secret society known as “The Crooked Circle,” which operates in a small town. The group is responsible for a series of mysterious crimes and murders that have left the town on edge.

The protagonist, Jerry, is a reporter who becomes embroiled in the mystery when his friend is accused of one of the murders. Jerry, along with his love interest, Kit, and a police officer named Lieutenant Cochrane, work together to solve the mystery and expose the members of the secret society.

As they delve deeper into the case, they discover that the members of the Crooked Circle are some of the most prominent citizens in the town, including a judge, a banker, and a doctor. The group has been operating for years, using their positions of power to cover up their crimes and maintain their hold on the town.

Jerry and his allies ultimately manage to unmask the members of the Crooked Circle and bring them to justice. The film ends with the town being freed from the grip of the corrupt society and justice being served for the victims of their crimes.

Overall, “The Crooked Circle” is a classic mystery film that features a well-crafted plot, strong performances, and a tense atmosphere. It is a great example of the detective genre from the early days of Hollywood cinema.

Directors:
H. Bruce Humberstone

Writer:
Ralph Spence, Tim Whelan

Stars:
Zasu Pitts, James Gleason, Ben Lyon

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Nancy Drew… Reporter (1939)
4/5 (1)

“Nancy Drew… Reporter” is a 1939 American mystery film directed by William Clemens and starring Bonita Granville as the amateur sleuth Nancy Drew. The film follows Nancy Drew as she investigates a series of burglaries and tries to clear the name of a wrongly accused friend.

The story begins with Nancy Drew working as a journalist for a local newspaper. When a series of burglaries occur in the town, Nancy decides to investigate and write an article about the crimes. Her investigation leads her to suspect a local pawnbroker named Zephyr Jones, who has a history of shady dealings.

However, things become more complicated when Nancy’s friend and fellow journalist Ted Nickerson is wrongfully accused of the burglaries. Nancy is determined to clear Ted’s name and sets out to find evidence that will prove his innocence.

As Nancy delves deeper into the case, she uncovers a web of deceit and corruption involving some of the town’s most prominent citizens. With the help of her friends, including her loyal housekeeper Hannah Gruen and her boyfriend Ted, Nancy eventually solves the case and brings the real culprit to justice.

“Nancy Drew… Reporter” is a thrilling and suspenseful mystery film that captures the spirit of the popular book series. Bonita Granville delivers a charismatic and engaging performance as Nancy Drew, making the character a beloved icon of the mystery genre. The film also features a strong supporting cast and impressive production values for its time.

Directors:
William Clemens

Writer:
Kenneth Gamet, Carolyn Keene

Stars:
Bonita Granville, John Litel, Frankie Thomas

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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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Bulldog Drummond Escapes (1937)
3/5 (1)

“Bulldog Drummond Escapes” is a 1937 American mystery thriller film directed by James P. Hogan and starring Ray Milland as the titular character. The film is based on the popular British detective novel series by H.C. McNeile, featuring the character of Captain Hugh “Bulldog” Drummond, a retired British army officer turned private detective.

In the film, Drummond is hired by a young woman named Phyllis Clavering to investigate the disappearance of her father, a wealthy businessman who has been kidnapped by a criminal gang. Drummond quickly discovers that the kidnapping is part of a larger conspiracy involving corrupt police officers and a crooked lawyer.

As Drummond delves deeper into the case, he is targeted by the criminal gang and must use his wit and physical prowess to stay alive and bring the criminals to justice. Along the way, he enlists the help of his loyal sidekick Algy Longworth (played by Reginald Denny) and a resourceful newspaper reporter named Captain Nielson (played by Porter Hall).

The film features several exciting action sequences, including a thrilling car chase and a tense showdown on a moving train. Ray Milland delivers a charismatic performance as Bulldog Drummond, combining humor and bravery in equal measure. The film was a critical and commercial success, spawning several sequels and cementing Bulldog Drummond as a popular fictional detective in both literature and film.

Directors:
James P. Hogan

Writer:
Edward T. Lowe Jr., Herman C. McNeile, Gerard Fairlie

Stars:
Ray Milland, Guy Standing, Heather Angel

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Rocky Mountain Mystery (1935)
3/5 (1)

Rocky Mountain Mystery is a 1935 western film directed by Charles Barton and starring Randolph Scott, Charles “Chic” Sale, and Kathleen Burke. The movie is about a U.S. Marshall, Bob Calem (Randolph Scott), who is sent to the Rocky Mountains to investigate a series of robberies in which the culprits are believed to be hiding out.

Upon arriving in town, Calem is mistaken for a notorious outlaw and is captured by a local sheriff. However, he is quickly able to prove his identity and is set free. Calem begins his investigation and, with the help of a local prospector, Marmaduke “Marm” Brown (Charles “Chic” Sale), he discovers a hidden valley where the robbers have been hiding out.

Calem also learns that the robbers are planning to carry out another robbery, and he sets out to stop them. In the ensuing gunfight, the robbers are defeated, and Calem is able to recover the stolen loot. In the end, Calem is hailed as a hero and leaves the Rocky Mountains with the gratitude of the locals.

Directors:
Charles Barton

Writer:
Edward E. Paramore Jr., Ethel Doherty, Zane Grey

Stars:
Randolph Scott, Charles ‘Chic’ Sale, Mrs. Leslie Carter

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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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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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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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The Vampire Bat (1933)
3/5 (1)

“The Vampire Bat” is a horror movie released in 1933, directed by Frank R. Strayer and starring Lionel Atwill, Fay Wray, and Melvyn Douglas. The movie takes place in a small German village called Kleinschloss, where a string of gruesome murders have been happening, with the victims having their throats bitten and drained of blood. The townspeople believe that a vampire is responsible for the killings and suspect a mysterious and reclusive man, Dr. Otto von Niemann (Atwill).

Inspector Karl Brettschneider (Douglas) is brought in to investigate the murders, along with his assistant, Kringen (Dwight Frye). They soon discover that the real culprit is not a supernatural creature but a deranged human who has been using bat blood to mimic the effects of vampirism. However, before they can catch the killer, several more murders occur, and the townspeople become increasingly panicked.

Meanwhile, the local doctor, Dr. von Niemann, has been conducting strange experiments in his laboratory, leading many to suspect him even further. The inspector and his team eventually discover that von Niemann is not the murderer but has been working to create a serum that can control bats. The real killer is revealed to be Herman (John Wray), a mentally ill man who works as a janitor and has been using the serum to control the bats and carry out his killings.

In the end, Herman is caught, and Dr. von Niemann’s serum is destroyed. The town is finally at peace, and the inspector and his assistant leave Kleinschloss, relieved that the vampire legend has been put to rest.

Directors:
Frank R. Strayer

Writer:
Edward T. Lowe Jr.

Stars:
Lionel Atwill, Fay Wray, Melvyn Douglas

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The Red House (1947)
3/5 (1)

“The Red House” is a psychological thriller novel written by American author, Mark Haddon, and published in 1947. The novel is set in a rural English village, where two teenage siblings, Angela and Richard, decide to explore the woods behind their family farm, which is rumored to be haunted by a malevolent presence.

Their curiosity leads them to discover an abandoned house in the woods, which is painted entirely in red. The house is owned by their reclusive neighbor, Mr. Bryson, who has always warned the siblings to stay away from the woods and the house.

As Angela and Richard continue to explore the woods and the house, they uncover dark family secrets that have been buried for years. Their uncle, Philip, who has been living with their family, seems to know more than he’s letting on, and as tensions rise, the siblings start to fear for their safety.

As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the red house is not just a haunted house, but a symbol of the psychological and emotional turmoil that plagues the characters. The novel deals with themes of family secrets, mental illness, and the destructive power of the past.

The novel is a suspenseful and atmospheric read that keeps the reader engaged until the very end.

Directors:
Delmer Daves

Writer:
George Agnew Chamberlain, Delmer Daves, Albert Maltz

Stars:
Edward G. Robinson, Lon McCallister, Judith Anderson

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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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The Kennel Murder Case (1933)
3/5 (1)

“The Kennel Murder Case” is a 1933 American mystery film directed by Michael Curtiz and starring William Powell and Mary Astor. The film is based on the novel of the same name by S.S. Van Dine and follows the story of Philo Vance, a wealthy amateur detective who is called in to investigate a murder at a dog show.

The film opens with the murder of Archer Coe, a wealthy businessman and dog enthusiast who is found dead in his study. The primary suspect is his jealous ex-wife, but Vance (played by Powell) believes there is more to the case than meets the eye. With the help of his faithful butler, Ernest (played by Eugene Pallette), Vance sets out to solve the mystery.

As Vance investigates, he encounters a cast of eccentric characters, including Coe’s mistress, his business partner, and a group of dog enthusiasts who are all potential suspects. The case becomes more complicated when another murder occurs at the dog show, and Vance must use his intellect and deductive reasoning to unravel the truth.

“The Kennel Murder Case” is a classic whodunit that features intricate plotting, witty dialogue, and colorful characters. Powell’s portrayal of Vance is charming and suave, and the film’s clever twists and turns keep the audience engaged until the very end. The film is a must-see for fans of classic mysteries and detective stories.

Directors:
Michael Curtiz

Writer:
S.S. Van Dine, Robert N. Lee, Peter Milne

Stars:
William Powell, Mary Astor, Eugene Pallette

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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)