Black & White Movies

Romance

Isn’t Life Wonderful (1924)
4/5 (1)

“Isn’t Life Wonderful” is a silent drama film directed by D.W. Griffith and released in 1924. The film is set in Germany after World War I and focuses on the struggles of a family trying to survive in the aftermath of the war.

The story centers around the family of a man named Stefan, who returns home after serving in the war to find that his wife and children have been forced to live in poverty. The family struggles to make ends meet, with Stefan working long hours in a factory and his wife selling flowers on the street.

Despite their difficult circumstances, the family remains optimistic and finds joy in small moments of happiness. They befriend a homeless boy, and their kindness to him is repaid when he helps them in a time of need. The family also finds solace in their faith, with scenes showing them attending church and praying together.

The film ultimately delivers a message of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. While it portrays the struggles of the family and the harsh realities of post-war Germany, it also emphasizes the importance of family, community, and faith in finding happiness and meaning in life.

In summary, “Isn’t Life Wonderful” is a silent drama film that portrays the struggles of a family in post-World War I Germany and emphasizes the power of hope, kindness, and faith in overcoming adversity.

Directors:
D.W. Griffith

Writer:
D.W. Griffith, Geoffrey Moss

Stars:
Carol Dempster, Neil Hamilton, Erville Alderson

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Romance of the Limberlost (1938)
4/5 (1)

“Romance of the Limberlost” released in 1938 and directed by William Nigh. The movie is based on the same book, “A Girl of the Limberlost,” by Gene Stratton-Porter, that I mentioned in my previous response.

The movie tells the story of Elnora Comstock, a young girl living near the Limberlost swamp who is determined to attend high school despite her impoverished background and unsupportive father. Along the way, she discovers a talent for singing and falls in love with a young man named Phillip Ammon.

The movie, like the book, explores themes of perseverance, the power of nature, and the importance of education. However, it also includes elements of romance and melodrama, which were common in movies of that era.

In summary, “Romance of the Limberlost” is a movie adaptation of the classic novel “A Girl of the Limberlost,” which tells the story of a young girl’s struggles to overcome poverty and achieve her dreams, while also including elements of romance and drama.

Directors:
William Nigh

Writer:
Gene Stratton-Porter, Marion Orth

Stars:
Jean Parker, Eric Linden, Marjorie Main

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Tess of the Storm Country (1922)
4/5 (1)

“Tess of the Storm Country” is a silent film adaptation of the novel of the same name by Grace Miller White. The film was directed by John S. Robertson and released in 1922. The story is set in the coastal town of Stormfield, where the wealthy Travers family lives in a grand mansion overlooking the sea.

Tessibel “Tess” Skinner is a poor, uneducated girl who lives with her grandfather, who makes a living by salvaging goods from shipwrecks. When the Travers family’s yacht runs aground in a storm, Tess and her grandfather rescue them from the wreckage. This leads to a chance meeting between Tess and the handsome young Travers son, Frederick, and they fall in love.

However, the Travers family disapproves of their relationship due to Tess’s low social status. Despite this, Frederick and Tess continue to see each other in secret. Meanwhile, a local villain named Black Donald is causing trouble for Tess and her grandfather, and when he tries to rape Tess, she fights him off and leaves him injured.

Black Donald blames Tess for his injuries and seeks revenge. He frames her for theft and she is arrested, but Frederick is able to clear her name and prove her innocence. In the end, Frederick’s father agrees to their marriage and they are able to live happily ever after.

The film was a critical and commercial success, and is notable for its strong female lead character and its portrayal of the struggles of the working class in early 20th century America. The film was remade twice, once in 1932 and again in 1960, both times with sound.

Directors:
John S. Robertson

Writer:
Grace Miller White, E. Lloyd Sheldon, Josephine Lovett

Stars:
Mary Pickford, Lloyd Hughes, Gloria Hope

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Algiers (1938)
4/5 (1)

“Algiers” is a 1938 American romantic drama film directed by John Cromwell and starring Charles Boyer and Hedy Lamarr.

The film tells the story of Pepe Le Moko (Charles Boyer), a notorious thief and fugitive who is hiding out in the Casbah district of Algiers, a labyrinthine neighborhood that is home to many other criminals and outcasts. Despite his criminal status, Pepe is respected and admired by the locals, who help him evade the police.

Pepe’s life takes a dramatic turn when he meets Gaby (Hedy Lamarr), a beautiful and sophisticated woman visiting Algiers with her wealthy fiancé. Pepe is immediately drawn to Gaby, and she to him, leading to a forbidden romance that threatens to upend both of their lives.

As the police close in on Pepe, he must choose between his love for Gaby and his loyalty to his criminal comrades. Meanwhile, Gaby must confront her own desires and decide what kind of life she wants to lead.

With its exotic setting, sweeping romance, and themes of forbidden love and redemption, “Algiers” was a critical and commercial success, earning Charles Boyer an Oscar nomination for his performance as Pepe Le Moko. The film has since become a classic of Hollywood’s golden age.

Directors:
John Cromwell

Writer:
John Howard Lawson, James M. Cain, Henri La Barthe

Stars:
Charles Boyer, Hedy Lamarr, Sigrid Gurie

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Easy Virtue (1928)
3/5 (1)

“Easy Virtue” is a play by Noël Coward, first performed in 1924. It was later adapted into a silent film in 1928, directed by Alfred Hitchcock.

The story follows Larita Filton, a glamorous and free-spirited young woman who marries John Whittaker, a young Englishman, after a whirlwind romance on the French Riviera. However, when they return to England, Larita finds herself ostracized by John’s family and society because of her past as a professional dancer and her divorce from her previous husband.

The play and film explore themes of social class, gender roles, and the tensions between tradition and modernity. It was considered controversial at the time for its frank treatment of divorce and female sexuality.

The film adaptation of “Easy Virtue” was notable for being one of Hitchcock’s earliest successes, showcasing his skill at combining suspense and humor. While it was initially dismissed by critics, it has since gained a reputation as a classic of early British cinema.

Directors:
Alfred Hitchcock

Writer:
Noël Coward, Eliot Stannard

Stars:
Isabel Jeans, Franklin Dyall, Eric Bransby Williams

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Borrowed Wives (1930)
3/5 (1)

“Borrowed Wives” is a pre-code romantic comedy film released in 1930. The story follows two friends, Dick and Jerry, who both have fiancées but are struggling financially. To solve their financial troubles, they devise a plan to borrow each other’s fiancée in order to seduce a wealthy woman and gain access to her fortune.

However, complications arise when both men fall in love with the woman they are supposed to seduce, and their true identities are eventually revealed. The women are initially upset but eventually forgive their fiancés and the two couples reconcile, with a happy ending for all.

The film was directed by Frank R. Strayer and stars Rex Lease as Dick, Vera Reynolds as Jerry’s fiancée, and Marguerite De La Motte as the wealthy woman they try to seduce. The film is notable for its portrayal of casual infidelity and its frank discussion of sexuality, which was unusual for films of its time.

Directors:
Frank R. Strayer

Writer:
Scott Darling

Stars:
Rex Lease, Vera Reynolds, Paul Hurst

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Second Chorus (1940)
3/5 (1)

“Second Chorus” is a musical comedy film directed by H.C. Potter and released in 1940. The movie follows the story of two musicians who are competing for the affections of a young woman while trying to make it big in the music industry.

The film’s protagonists are Danny O’Neill (Fred Astaire) and Hank Taylor (Burgess Meredith), two friends who are both talented musicians. They are both vying for the attention of Ellen Miller (Paulette Goddard), a beautiful and ambitious young woman who wants to become a successful band manager.

As Danny and Hank try to make it big in the music industry, they get mixed up with a group of gangsters who are interested in using their talents for illegal purposes. The two friends must work together to navigate these dangerous situations while also trying to win over Ellen.

Throughout the film, there are several musical performances, including several dance numbers featuring Fred Astaire’s signature moves. The film also features a number of comedic moments, particularly between Danny and Hank, who have a bit of a love-hate relationship.

In the end, Danny and Ellen end up together, and Danny and Hank’s music career takes off. The film ends with the two friends playing a triumphant performance, cementing their success in the music industry.

Overall, “Second Chorus” is a lighthearted musical comedy that showcases the talents of Fred Astaire and Paulette Goddard. The film’s music, dance numbers, and comedic moments make it an enjoyable watch for fans of classic Hollywood cinema.

Directors:
H.C. Potter

Writer:
Frank Cavett, Elaine Ryan, Ian McLellan Hunter

Stars:
Fred Astaire, Paulette Goddard, Artie Shaw

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Escape to Paradise (1939)
3/5 (1)

“Escape to Paradise” is a romantic drama film directed by Erle C. Kenton and released in 1939. The movie tells the story of a woman who escapes from her dull life and finds love and adventure on a tropical island.

The film’s protagonist is Ellen Graham (Bobby Breen), a young girl who lives a sheltered life with her wealthy family. Feeling stifled by her privileged existence, Ellen decides to run away and seek adventure.

She ends up on a tropical island, where she meets a group of people who are also seeking to escape their pasts. Among them is Tony (Robert Cummings), a handsome musician who falls in love with Ellen.

As Ellen and Tony’s relationship blossoms, they face challenges from the other island residents who disapprove of their romance. Ellen also struggles with the decision to return home to her family or stay on the island with Tony.

In the end, Ellen chooses to stay on the island with Tony and embrace the life of adventure she has found. The film ends with the two of them sailing off into the sunset, happy and in love.

Overall, “Escape to Paradise” is a classic romantic drama that explores the themes of love, adventure, and finding one’s true self. The film features strong performances by Bobby Breen and Robert Cummings and stunning tropical scenery that transports the audience to a far-off paradise.

Directors:
Erle C. Kenton

Writer:
Ian McLellan Hunter, Herbert Clyde Lewis, Weldon Melick

Stars:
Bobby Breen, Kent Taylor, Marla Shelton

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The Town Went Wild (1944)
4/5 (2)

“The Town Went Wild” is a comedy film directed by Ralph Murphy and released in 1944. The movie is set in a small town that experiences a sudden and bizarre change in behavior among its residents.

The film’s protagonist is Frank Raymond (Freddie Bartholomew), a young man who returns to his hometown after serving in the military during World War II. He finds the town in chaos, with its inhabitants suddenly becoming wild and unruly.

The cause of the town’s transformation is a mysterious gas that has been released from a nearby chemical plant. The gas affects people differently, with some becoming aggressive and others becoming overly emotional.

As the town’s residents become more and more uncontrollable, Frank and his girlfriend, Jane (Joan Leslie), work to find a solution to the problem. They discover that the gas has also affected the town’s water supply and work to cut off the source of contamination.

In the end, Frank and Jane are able to restore order to the town and save it from complete chaos. The film ends with the two of them embracing, happy to have reunited and brought peace back to their community.

Overall, “The Town Went Wild” is a lighthearted comedy that uses the idea of a small town going crazy as a humorous premise. The film also touches on themes of community and the importance of working together to solve problems.

Directors:
Ralph Murphy

Writer:
Bernard B. Roth, Clarence Greene, Russell Rouse

Stars:
Freddie Bartholomew, Jimmy Lydon, Edward Everett Horton

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The Lady Says No (1952)
4/5 (2)

“The Lady Says No” is a 1952 romantic comedy film directed by Frank Ross and starring Joan Caulfield and David Niven. The film follows the story of a successful female author named Dorinda Hatch (played by Caulfield), who writes a book titled “The Lady Says No” that argues against the institution of marriage.

Dorinda’s book becomes a bestseller and earns her widespread fame and admiration. However, it also attracts the attention of a wealthy playboy named Bill Shelby (played by Niven), who takes a romantic interest in her despite her avowed stance against marriage.

Despite her initial reluctance, Dorinda begins to fall for Bill and the two begin a romance. However, their relationship is complicated by Dorinda’s commitment to her anti-marriage philosophy and Bill’s desire to settle down and start a family.

As their relationship develops, Dorinda is forced to confront her own biases and reconsider her opinions on marriage. She also faces pressure from her publisher and fans, who want her to abandon her stance and write a more conventional book.

In the end, Dorinda and Bill come to an understanding and she decides to give marriage a chance. The film ends with the couple getting married and Dorinda embracing her new role as a wife and mother.

Overall, “The Lady Says No” is a lighthearted romantic comedy that explores themes of gender roles, societal expectations, and the power of love. The film features strong performances from its lead actors and a witty script that provides plenty of laughs along the way.

Directors:
Frank Ross

Writer:
Robert Russell

Stars:
Joan Caulfield, David Niven, James Robertson Justice

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Baby Face Morgan (1942)
3/5 (1)

“Baby Face Morgan” is a 1942 crime drama film directed by Arthur Dreifuss and starring Richard Cromwell, Mary Carlisle, and Robert Armstrong. The film follows the story of an ambitious young man named Morgan (played by Cromwell), who rises through the ranks of organized crime to become a powerful gangster.

The film begins with Morgan as a teenager living in a small town. He is bored with his mundane life and dreams of becoming rich and famous. When a group of gangsters come to town, Morgan sees an opportunity to join their ranks and sets out to impress them with his toughness and quick thinking.

Morgan’s efforts pay off and he is recruited by the gangsters to work for them in the city. He quickly rises through the ranks, becoming a trusted member of the organization. Along the way, he becomes involved with a nightclub singer named Judy (played by Carlisle), who is also involved with the gang’s leader, Butch (played by Armstrong).

As Morgan’s power within the organization grows, he begins to clash with Butch, who sees him as a threat to his own leadership. The tension between the two men eventually leads to a violent confrontation, with Morgan emerging as the victor.

Despite his success, Morgan begins to realize the toll that his criminal lifestyle has taken on him and those around him. He begins to question his choices and the people he has aligned himself with, including Judy, who he learns has been using him for her own gain.

In the end, Morgan decides to turn his back on the criminal world and start anew. He leaves behind his former life and the people he once considered friends and allies, including Judy. The film ends with Morgan walking off into the distance, ready to start a new chapter in his life.

Overall, “Baby Face Morgan” is a classic example of the gangster film genre, exploring themes of power, ambition, and the corrupting influence of crime. The film features strong performances from its lead actors and a compelling storyline that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.

Directors:
Arthur Dreifuss

Writer:
Edward Dein, Jack Rubin, Oscar Brodney

Stars:
Richard Cromwell, Mary Carlisle, Robert Armstrong

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Eternally Yours (1939)
3/5 (1)

“Eternally Yours” is a romantic drama film from 1939 directed by Tay Garnett. The movie stars Loretta Young as Anita, a successful stage magician who falls in love with a handsome and charming pianist named Tony, played by David Niven.

Despite her initial reluctance, the two get married and live happily together for a while, until Tony’s music career starts to take off, and he begins to neglect their marriage. Anita, feeling unappreciated and ignored, decides to leave Tony and start a new life for herself.

However, Tony realizes his mistake and tries to win Anita back, even going as far as learning some of her magic tricks to impress her. Eventually, Anita is won over, and the two reconcile, reaffirming their love for each other.

The film is notable for its impressive special effects, particularly in the scenes where Anita performs her magic tricks. It was also praised for the chemistry between the two leads and for its portrayal of a strong, independent woman who refuses to be held back by societal norms.

Directors:
Tay Garnett

Writer:
Gene Towne, C. Graham Baker, Edward Childs Carpenter

Stars:
Loretta Young, David Niven, Hugh Herbert

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Love Laughs at Andy Hardy (1946)
3/5 (1)

“Love Laughs at Andy Hardy” is a romantic comedy film released in 1946 and directed by Willis Goldbeck. The movie is part of the popular Andy Hardy film series, which follows the adventures of a teenage boy named Andy Hardy, played by Mickey Rooney.

In this film, Andy returns home to Carvel after serving in World War II. He finds that many things have changed in his absence, including his girlfriend Polly Benedict, played by Ann Rutherford, who is now engaged to someone else.

Andy is heartbroken and seeks advice from his father, Judge Hardy, played by Lewis Stone, and his Aunt Milly, played by Sara Haden. They encourage him to move on and find a new love interest.

Meanwhile, Andy’s friend Betsy Booth, played by Judy Garland, returns to Carvel and reignites Andy’s interest in her. Betsy is a famous singer, and Andy is thrilled to spend time with her.

However, things get complicated when Polly comes back into the picture, and Andy must decide between his old flame and his new interest.

The film is a lighthearted look at teenage romance and the challenges of growing up. The movie features several musical numbers, including a duet between Rooney and Garland, and captures the post-war optimism of the time.

In summary, “Love Laughs at Andy Hardy” is a charming and entertaining romantic comedy that showcases the talents of its cast and provides a nostalgic glimpse into a bygone era.

Directors:
Willis Goldbeck

Writer:
Harry Ruskin, William Ludwig, Howard Dimsdale

Stars:
Mickey Rooney, Lewis Stone, Sara Haden

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Home Town Story (1951)
3/5 (1)

“Home Town Story” is a 1951 drama film directed by Arthur Pierson and starring Jeffrey Lynn, Donald Crisp, and Marilyn Monroe in a minor role. The film tells the story of Blake Washburn (played by Jeffrey Lynn), a big-city journalist who returns to his hometown to sell his late father’s newspaper. While there, he learns about the struggles of the small-town community and decides to use the newspaper to bring about change.

Blake discovers that the town is facing many challenges, including declining business and population, corrupt politicians, and lack of community engagement. He decides to use the newspaper to expose the truth about these issues and to rally the community to take action.

At first, the townspeople are resistant to Blake’s ideas and accuse him of trying to interfere in their way of life. However, he perseveres and eventually gains their trust and support. With the help of a local farmer (played by Donald Crisp) and his daughter (played by Marilyn Monroe), Blake is able to bring about positive change in the town.

The film highlights the importance of community engagement and the power of the press to bring about change. It also addresses themes of small-town life, family values, and the conflict between tradition and progress.

Directors:
Arthur Pierson

Writer:
Arthur Pierson

Stars:
Jeffrey Lynn, Donald Crisp, Marjorie Reynolds

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Love Island (1952)
3/5 (1)

“Love Island” is a romantic comedy film released in 1952. The film follows the story of Jim Trevor (played by Peter Lawford), a wealthy American businessman who is on a business trip to England. During his stay, he meets and falls in love with a beautiful young woman named Mae Doyle (played by Eva Bartok) who works as a hotel chambermaid.

Despite their different social backgrounds and the disapproval of Mae’s boss, Jim and Mae embark on a whirlwind romance and decide to get married. However, their plans are complicated by the arrival of Jim’s business associate, who is determined to put a stop to their relationship and has his own designs on Mae.

As Jim and Mae try to navigate their relationship and overcome the obstacles in their way, they are aided by a cast of colorful characters, including a charming hotel manager, a cheeky bellboy, and a wise old bartender.

The film is a delightful and light-hearted romantic comedy, with plenty of laughs and charming performances from the cast. It also offers a glimpse into the social mores and class divides of post-war Britain and America, and the challenges faced by couples from different backgrounds trying to make a life together. Overall, “Love Island” is a fun and enjoyable film that is sure to delight fans of classic romantic comedies.

Directors:
Bud Pollard

Writer:
John E. Godson, Daniel Kusell

Stars:
Paul Valentine, Eva Gabor, Malcolm Lee Beggs

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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)