Black & White Movies

Romance

Paradise Isle (1937)
3/5 (1)

“Paradise Isle” is a 1937 American romantic adventure film directed by Arthur Greville Collins and starring Movita Castaneda, Warren Hull, and Kenneth MacKenna. The film follows the story of a young woman named Luana (Movita Castaneda) who lives on a South Seas island with her father and her people. One day, a young American pilot named Jim (Warren Hull) crash-lands on the island, and Luana nurses him back to health. The two fall in love, but their relationship is complicated by the fact that Luana is promised to another man, a powerful chief named Tanoa (Kenneth MacKenna).

As Jim and Luana try to navigate their feelings for each other, they are faced with a series of challenges, including a group of pirates who have their eyes on the island’s riches, and Tanoa’s jealousy and anger. Jim must prove his worth to Luana’s people and win Tanoa’s respect if he is to have any chance of staying on the island with Luana.

The film is a classic example of Hollywood’s portrayal of the South Seas as an exotic, romantic paradise, and features a number of musical numbers and dance sequences that showcase the talents of the film’s Polynesian cast. Despite its somewhat clichéd plot and stereotypical portrayals of indigenous peoples, “Paradise Isle” remains an enjoyable and entertaining film that captures the spirit of adventure and romance that was popular in Hollywood films of the 1930s.

Directors:
Arthur Greville Collins

Writer:
Allan Vaughan Elston, Marion Orth

Stars:
Movita, Warren Hull, William B. Davidson

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Robin Hood (1922)
4/5 (1)

“Robin Hood” is a silent film directed by Allan Dwan and released in 1922. The film tells the story of the legendary outlaw Robin Hood, who steals from the rich and gives to the poor in medieval England.

The movie begins with a brief introduction to the historical context, with King Richard the Lionheart off fighting in the Crusades and his brother Prince John taking advantage of the situation to oppress the people of England with the help of his minions, Sir Guy of Gisbourne and the Sheriff of Nottingham.

Robin Hood, played by Douglas Fairbanks, is introduced as a wealthy nobleman who is discontent with the corruption and tyranny of Prince John’s regime. He decides to take matters into his own hands and becomes an outlaw, gathering a group of like-minded men in Sherwood Forest.

With his band of Merry Men, Robin Hood sets out to rob from the rich and give to the poor. He becomes a popular hero among the oppressed people of England, and his legend spreads far and wide. However, his activities don’t go unnoticed, and Prince John and his henchmen are determined to capture Robin Hood and put an end to his rebellion.

The film features several action-packed scenes, including a thrilling chase through the forest and a spectacular sword fight between Robin Hood and Sir Guy of Gisbourne. The movie also includes a love story between Robin Hood and Lady Marian Fitzwalter, played by Enid Bennett.

In the end, Robin Hood and his men are able to defeat Prince John and his army and restore King Richard to the throne. Robin and Marian are united, and the people of England are once again free from tyranny.

“Robin Hood” was a commercial and critical success and helped establish Douglas Fairbanks as one of the biggest stars of the silent era. The film’s popularity has endured over the years, and it remains one of the most iconic adaptations of the Robin Hood legend.

Directors:
Allan Dwan

Writer:
Douglas Fairbanks, Kenneth Davenport, Allan Dwan

Stars:
Douglas Fairbanks, Wallace Beery, Sam De Grasse

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This Island Earth (1955)
3/5 (1)

“This Island Earth” is a science-fiction film released in 1955, directed by Joseph M. Newman and produced by William Alland. The film follows the story of Dr. Cal Meacham (Rex Reason), a brilliant scientist who is recruited by a mysterious organization called “Electronic Service Associates” to work on a top-secret project.

Dr. Meacham and his colleagues, including fellow scientist Dr. Ruth Adams (Faith Domergue), are transported to a remote laboratory where they are tasked with building a device that can generate unlimited energy. However, as they work on the project, they begin to realize that their employers may not be who they seem, and that there is more to the project than they were led to believe.

Dr. Meacham is contacted by a mysterious alien named Exeter (Jeff Morrow), who reveals that he and his people are in a desperate struggle for survival against an alien race known as the “Metalunans”. Exeter recruits Dr. Meacham and Dr. Adams to help him save his people by providing them with the technology to defeat the Metalunans.

The three of them embark on a dangerous journey to the alien planet, where they face a series of challenges and obstacles as they try to help Exeter and his people. They must use their scientific knowledge and expertise to outsmart the Metalunans and find a way to save themselves and Exeter’s people from certain doom.

“This Island Earth” is a classic sci-fi film that explores the themes of technology, intergalactic travel, and the struggle for survival against a hostile and technologically advanced enemy. The film’s special effects, including the alien technology and the futuristic sets, were groundbreaking for their time and have influenced many films in the genre that followed.

Directors:
Joseph M. Newman, Jack Arnold

Writer:
Raymond F. Jones, Franklin Coen, George Callahan

Stars:
Jeff Morrow, Faith Domergue, Rex Reason

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Angel and the Badman (1947)
4/5 (1)

“Angel and the Badman” is a Western film from 1947, written and directed by James Edward Grant, and starring John Wayne and Gail Russell.

The film tells the story of Quirt Evans (played by John Wayne), a notorious gunfighter who is wounded in a shoot-out and taken in by a Quaker family led by a young woman named Penelope Worth (played by Gail Russell). As he recuperates, Quirt begins to question his violent ways and is drawn to the peaceful and compassionate lifestyle of the Quakers.

However, Quirt’s past catches up with him when a rival gunslinger named Laredo Stevens (played by Bruce Cabot) comes looking for revenge. Quirt must decide whether to resort to his old ways and defend himself or follow the pacifist teachings of the Quakers and turn the other cheek.

As the conflict between Quirt and Laredo escalates, Penelope and the Quakers work to show Quirt a different path and help him find redemption.

The film is notable for its exploration of themes such as redemption, forgiveness, and the contrast between violence and nonviolence. It was also one of the first films produced by John Wayne’s own production company, Batjac Productions.

Directors:
James Edward Grant

Writer:
James Edward Grant

Stars:
John Wayne, Gail Russell, Harry Carey

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Small Back Room (1949)
3/5 (1)

“The Small Back Room” is a British war drama film released in 1949, directed by Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger. The story follows the struggles of a bomb disposal expert named Sammy Rice (played by David Farrar) during World War II.

Rice is a skilled engineer and has been tasked with diffusing unexploded bombs across London. However, he is also dealing with a painful injury sustained during the war, which has left him addicted to painkillers and alcohol. His addiction, combined with the pressure of his job, leads to tension in his relationship with his girlfriend Susan (played by Kathleen Byron).

As the war intensifies and the German bombings become more frequent, Rice is tasked with diffusing a new type of bomb that has never been encountered before. With the clock ticking, Rice and his team race against time to find a solution and prevent a disaster.

Throughout the film, Rice must confront his personal demons and find a way to overcome his addiction in order to complete his mission. Meanwhile, Susan struggles to support Rice and cope with the stress of living in a war-torn city.

Overall, “The Small Back Room” is a gripping and intense drama that explores the psychological toll of war and the challenges faced by those on the front lines. The film is notable for its realistic portrayal of bomb disposal techniques and its nuanced depiction of the characters’ emotions and relationships.

Directors:
Michael Powell, Emeric Pressburger

Writer:
Nigel Balchin, Michael Powell, Emeric Pressburger

Stars:
David Farrar, Jack Hawkins, Kathleen Byron

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Hot Rod Girl (1956)
3/5 (1)

“Hot Rod Girl” is a classic American film from 1956 that follows the story of a young woman named Lori Nelson who becomes involved in the dangerous world of hot rod racing.

Nelson’s character, named “Gloria,” is a rebellious teenager who falls in love with a young hot rod racer named “J.D.” (played by Chuck Connors). J.D. is the leader of a gang of young racers who are constantly pushing the limits of their cars and endangering their lives in the process.

As Gloria becomes more involved with J.D. and his gang, she also becomes more aware of the dangers and risks involved in hot rod racing. When J.D. becomes involved in a dangerous street race with a rival gang, Gloria must try to convince him to give up his dangerous lifestyle and settle down with her.

The film features a number of exciting and dramatic racing scenes, as well as some tense moments as Gloria and J.D. navigate their relationship and try to find a way to balance their love for each other with their passion for racing.

Overall, “Hot Rod Girl” is a thrilling and entertaining film that captures the spirit of teenage rebellion and the excitement of hot rod racing in the 1950s.

Directors:
Leslie H. Martinson

Writer:
John McGreevey

Stars:
Lori Nelson, Chuck Connors, John Smith

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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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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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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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The Return of Draw Egan (1916)
3/5 (1)

“The Return of Draw Egan” is a 1916 American silent Western film directed by William S. Hart and featuring Hart in the lead role. The movie tells the story of Draw Egan, a notorious outlaw who has been released from prison after serving time for a crime he did not commit. Egan sets out to clear his name and track down the real culprit.

Upon his release, Egan finds that his reputation as an outlaw has made it difficult for him to lead a normal life. He is constantly hounded by the law and treated with suspicion by the townspeople. Egan’s only friend is a saloon owner named Kate (played by Louise Glaum), who believes in his innocence.

Egan’s investigation leads him to a corrupt sheriff named Larkin (played by J.P. Lockney), who was responsible for framing him. Egan confronts Larkin and a gunfight ensues, resulting in Larkin’s death. Egan is wounded in the shootout and taken care of by Kate.

While recovering from his injuries, Egan falls in love with Kate and decides to turn his life around. He gives up his outlaw ways and becomes a rancher, hoping to start a new life with Kate.

“The Return of Draw Egan” is a classic Western movie that explores themes of redemption, justice, and loyalty. William S. Hart’s performance as Draw Egan is highly praised and the film is considered one of the best examples of early silent Westerns.

Directors:
William S. Hart

Writer:
C. Gardner Sullivan

Stars:
William S. Hart, Margery Wilson, Robert McKim

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Becky Sharp (1935)
3/5 (1)

“Becky Sharp” is a 1935 British film directed by Rouben Mamoulian and starring Miriam Hopkins, Frances Dee, and Cedric Hardwicke. The movie is based on the novel “Vanity Fair” by William Makepeace Thackeray, which tells the story of a poor girl named Becky Sharp who tries to climb the social ladder by any means necessary.

The movie follows Becky Sharp, a young woman who lives in a society where money and status are the keys to success. She is determined to rise above her humble origins and become a member of the wealthy elite. Becky’s first opportunity comes when she is hired as a governess for Sir Pitt Crawley’s children. While working for Sir Pitt, Becky meets his two sons, Rawdon and Pitt Jr., and quickly sets her sights on Rawdon, a handsome but poor military officer.

Becky and Rawdon elope, but their marriage is not accepted by Rawdon’s family. Despite this setback, Becky continues to pursue her dreams of wealth and status. She becomes the mistress of the wealthy Marquess of Steyne, who provides her with everything she desires. However, her association with the Marquess leads to her downfall when he dies suddenly, leaving her with nothing.

In the end, Becky is left with nothing but her beauty and charm, but she refuses to give up. She uses her wits and cunning to start over again, determined to succeed at any cost. The movie ends with Becky walking off into the sunset, ready to take on whatever challenges lie ahead.

Overall, “Becky Sharp” is a captivating and entertaining movie that showcases the talents of its cast and director. It explores the themes of ambition, social climbing, and the corrupting influence of wealth and power.

Directors:
Rouben Mamoulian

Writer:
William Makepeace Thackeray, Francis Edward Faragoh, Langdon Mitchell

Stars:
Miriam Hopkins, Frances Dee, Cedric Hardwicke

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The Small Back Room (1949)
4/5 (1)

“The Small Back Room” is a 1949 British war film directed by Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger, and starring David Farrar and Kathleen Byron. The movie tells the story of Sammy Rice, a scientist who is tasked with developing a new type of explosive for the British Army during World War II.

Sammy Rice, played by Farrar, is a talented scientist who suffers from a physical disability and a dependence on alcohol. He is in a turbulent relationship with his girlfriend Susan (played by Byron), who is also struggling with her own personal demons.

Despite his personal struggles, Sammy is determined to complete his work for the Army. He faces a number of challenges, including pressure from his superiors and a series of dangerous accidents in the laboratory. Sammy also becomes embroiled in a tense game of cat and mouse with a German spy who is attempting to steal his research.

As Sammy’s mental and emotional state begins to unravel, he becomes increasingly reliant on Susan for support. However, their relationship is strained as they struggle to come to terms with their own personal demons.

“The Small Back Room” is a character-driven film that explores the psychological toll of war and the impact it can have on individuals. The movie is notable for its use of innovative camera techniques and its portrayal of Sammy’s struggle with disability and addiction. The film’s themes of sacrifice, duty, and personal redemption are timeless and continue to resonate with audiences today.

Directors:
Michael Powell, Emeric Pressburger

Writer:
Nigel Balchi, Michael Powell, Emeric Pressburger

Stars:
David Farrar, Jack Hawkins, Kathleen Byron

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The Mad Monster (1942)
3/5 (1)

“The Mad Monster” is a horror movie from 1942 directed by Sam Newfield. The movie follows the story of a mad scientist named Dr. Lorenzo Cameron (played by George Zucco) who has developed a serum that can turn animals into monsters.

Dr. Cameron uses his serum to transform his loyal servant Petro (played by Glenn Strange) into a werewolf-like creature that he plans to use as a weapon against his enemies. However, Petro’s transformation is unstable and he becomes increasingly violent and uncontrollable.

Meanwhile, Dr. Cameron’s daughter Lenora (played by Anne Nagel) becomes suspicious of her father’s experiments and teams up with a reporter named Tom Gregory (played by Johnny Downs) to investigate.

The film explores themes of science and the consequences of playing with nature. The special effects and production values are typical of low-budget horror films of the era, but the film has gained a cult following for its campy charm and entertaining storyline.

In the end, Tom and Lenora are able to stop Dr. Cameron’s plans and destroy the serum, but not before Petro wreaks havoc on the town. The film concludes with a warning about the dangers of unchecked scientific experimentation and the importance of ethical boundaries.

Directors:
Sam Newfield

Writer:
Fred Myton

Stars:
Johnny Downs, George Zucco, Anne Nagel

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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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Under The Red Robe (1937)
3/5 (1)

“Under The Red Robe” is a historical adventure novel written by British author Stanley Weyman, first published in 1894. The novel is set in 17th century France and follows the story of Gil de Berault, a young aristocrat who has fallen out of favor with the king and is forced to flee Paris to avoid arrest.

Gil takes refuge in the countryside and assumes the identity of a traveling Spanish priest, Don Alvares. He is aided by a band of smugglers who help him to navigate the dangerous terrain of the French countryside and avoid the king’s soldiers who are hunting him.

As Don Alvares, Gil becomes involved in the affairs of a local noblewoman, Madame de Longueville, and her husband, the Marquis de Pompiers. He learns of a plot to assassinate the king and risks everything to thwart the conspirators and clear his own name.

Throughout the novel, Gil grapples with questions of honor, loyalty, and identity, as he tries to reconcile his noble upbringing with the harsh realities of life on the run. His adventures take him across France and into the heart of the royal court, where he must use all of his wits and courage to survive.

“Under The Red Robe” is a thrilling and engaging adventure story that captures the spirit of 17th century France. It is a classic tale of swashbuckling heroism, political intrigue, and romanticism that has captivated readers for generations.

Directors:
Victor Sjöström

Writer:
Lajos Biró, Philip Lindsay, J.L. Hodson

Stars:
Conrad Veidt, Annabella, Raymond Massey

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Black & White Series

Series List A-Z

Top Rated Moveis

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