Black & White Movies

Thriller

The Lady Vanishes (1938)
4.5/5 (2)

“The Lady Vanishes” is a 1938 British thriller film directed by Alfred Hitchcock. The film is based on the 1936 novel “The Wheel Spins” by Ethel Lina White.

The movie takes place in the fictional European country of Bandrika, where a group of passengers are stranded at a remote hotel due to an avalanche blocking the train tracks. Among them is Iris Henderson (Margaret Lockwood), a young socialite who befriends Miss Froy (Dame May Whitty), an elderly governess who is also a passenger on the train.

When the train finally resumes its journey, Miss Froy disappears, and no one on the train seems to remember seeing her. With the help of Gilbert (Michael Redgrave), a musician, Iris sets out to find Miss Froy and uncover the truth about her disappearance.

As they investigate, Iris and Gilbert become caught up in a web of intrigue and conspiracy involving Bandrikan politics and a group of spies who are determined to prevent Miss Froy from returning to England with her valuable information.

“The Lady Vanishes” is regarded as one of Hitchcock’s greatest films, with its blend of suspense, humor, and romance. The movie is notable for its strong performances, particularly from Lockwood and Redgrave, as well as its inventive use of the confined space of a train. The film’s themes of deception, identity, and memory have also been the subject of critical analysis and interpretation over the years.

Directors:
Alfred Hitchcock

Writer:
Ethel Lina White, Sidney Gilliat, Frank Launder

Stars:
Margaret Lockwood, Michael Redgrave, Paul Lukas

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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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The Spy In White (1936)
3/5 (1)

“The Spy in White” is a British spy thriller film released in 1936. The movie is set in China in the 1920s, during the time of political upheaval and conflict between various factions and foreign powers. The story revolves around a British naval officer, Cmdr. Carey, who is sent to Shanghai to investigate the disappearance of a fellow officer, Captain Thorndyke.

Upon arriving in Shanghai, Carey finds himself embroiled in a dangerous game of espionage and counter-espionage, as various factions and foreign powers compete for influence and control. He meets a beautiful Russian spy, Sonya, who becomes his ally and helps him in his investigation.

Carey discovers that Thorndyke has been kidnapped by a Chinese warlord, General Yang, who is seeking to obtain a secret treaty between Britain and China. With the help of Sonya and his Chinese friend, Dr. Shen, Carey manages to infiltrate Yang’s stronghold and rescue Thorndyke.

However, the mission is not without its cost. Carey is forced to confront his own moral code and make difficult decisions, including sacrificing his own safety and the safety of his comrades to achieve his objectives.

The movie features impressive cinematography, with stunning shots of Shanghai and the surrounding countryside. The performances by the cast, including Leslie Banks as Cmdr. Carey and Madeleine Carroll as Sonya, are also notable. The film is a gripping thriller that provides a glimpse into the complex political landscape of pre-war China.

Directors:
Andrew Marton

Writer:
Dennis Wheatley, George A. Hill, Richard Wainwright

Stars:
Valerie Hobson, James Mason, Frank Vosper

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Secret Agent (1936)
3/5 (1)

“Secret Agent” is a spy thriller film from 1936, directed by Alfred Hitchcock and starring John Gielgud, Madeleine Carroll, and Peter Lorre. The story takes place during World War I, and follows the adventures of a British writer named Edgar Brodie (Gielgud), who is recruited by the British Secret Service to go undercover in Switzerland and track down and eliminate a German spy known only as “The General.”

Posing as a writer of historical novels, Brodie meets and falls in love with Elsa Carrington (Carroll), a fellow British agent who is posing as his wife. They team up with a hitman named “The Hairless Mexican” (Lorre) to carry out their mission. Along the way, they encounter a variety of dangerous and colorful characters, including a sinister Russian agent and a group of German spies.

As the mission progresses, Brodie begins to question the morality of his assignment and whether killing “The General” is truly justified. Meanwhile, Elsa’s loyalties are called into question when it is revealed that her brother is actually “The General.”

The film features a number of classic Hitchcockian themes, including mistaken identity, double agents, and morally ambiguous characters. It is also notable for its dark and suspenseful tone, as well as its innovative use of sound and camera techniques. Overall, “Secret Agent” is a gripping and thrilling spy film that showcases Hitchcock’s mastery of the genre.

Directors:
Alfred Hitchcock

Writer:
Campbell Dixon, W. Somerset Maugham, Charles Bennett

Stars:
John Gielgud, Madeleine Carroll, Robert Young

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Reign of Terror (1949)
4/5 (1)

“Reign of Terror” is a 1949 American film directed by Anthony Mann and starring Robert Cummings, Richard Basehart, and Arlene Dahl. The movie is set during the French Revolution and follows the story of a man named Charles D’Aubigny (Robert Cummings) who is sent to France to retrieve a list of counter-revolutionaries.

The film opens with Maximilien Robespierre (Richard Basehart), the leader of the Committee of Public Safety, executing a fellow revolutionary for being a counter-revolutionary. D’Aubigny, who is working for the French government, arrives in Paris and meets with his contact, Madelon (Arlene Dahl). She reveals to him that the list of counter-revolutionaries has been stolen and is now in the possession of Citizen Fouquet (Arnold Moss).

D’Aubigny sets out to find Fouquet and retrieve the list, but he soon discovers that Robespierre and his allies are using the list to eliminate anyone they suspect of opposing the Revolution. D’Aubigny is forced to go into hiding, but he continues to work with Madelon and other members of the underground resistance to bring down Robespierre.

As the Reign of Terror intensifies, D’Aubigny and his allies must navigate a dangerous web of intrigue and betrayal. They are aided by the enigmatic Madelon, who has her own reasons for opposing Robespierre. Eventually, D’Aubigny is able to obtain the list and use it to bring down Robespierre and his allies.

The film ends with D’Aubigny and Madelon watching as Robespierre is led to the guillotine. They realize that the Revolution has descended into tyranny, but they also know that their work is not yet done. The film closes with a quote from Robespierre: “Terror is only justice prompt, severe and inflexible; it is then an emanation of virtue; it is less a distinct principle than a natural consequence of the general principle of democracy, applied to the most pressing wants of the country.”

Directors:
Anthony Mann

Writer:
Philip Yordan, Æneas MacKenzie

Stars:
Robert Cummings, Richard Basehart, Richard Hart

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Outside The Law (1921)
3/5 (1)

“Outside the Law” is a silent film released in 1921, directed by Tod Browning, and starring Priscilla Dean, Lon Chaney, and Wheeler Oakman. The film tells the story of a gangster named “Black” Mike Sylva (played by Oakman) and his efforts to recruit a young thief named “Fingers” (played by Dean) to join his criminal organization.

Fingers’ father was a notorious criminal who was killed in a shootout with the police, and she has been raised by her uncle, who is also a thief. When her uncle is caught and sent to prison, Fingers is left alone and vulnerable. Black Mike sees her potential as a skilled pickpocket and offers her a job, but Fingers is initially hesitant to join his gang.

Meanwhile, a police detective named “Silent” Madden (played by Chaney) is hot on Black Mike’s trail and becomes suspicious of Fingers’ involvement with the gang. He befriends her and tries to convince her to help him catch Black Mike and his associates.

As Fingers becomes more involved with the gang, she begins to develop feelings for Black Mike’s right-hand man, “Dapper” Bill Ballard (played by Ralph Lewis). When she discovers that Black Mike plans to double-cross and kill Bill, she decides to help Silent Madden and the police take down the gang.

The film climaxes with a thrilling chase and shootout between the police and the gang, with Fingers and Bill caught in the middle. In the end, justice is served, and Fingers is given a second chance at life, thanks to Silent Madden’s compassion and understanding.

“Outside the Law” was a critical and commercial success upon its release, cementing Lon Chaney’s reputation as a master of character acting and Tod Browning’s status as a skilled director of crime dramas.

Directors:
Tod Browning

Writer:
Gardner Bradford, Tod Browning, Lucien Hubbard

Stars:
Priscilla Dean, Wheeler Oakman, Lon Chaney

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Night of the Living Dead (1968)
4/5 (1)

“Night of the Living Dead” is a classic horror film released in 1968, directed by George A. Romero. The movie follows a group of people who are trapped in a rural Pennsylvania farmhouse during a zombie apocalypse.

The movie opens with siblings Barbara (Judith O’Dea) and Johnny (Russell Streiner) visiting their father’s grave in a cemetery. They are attacked by a strange man who appears to be a zombie, and Johnny is killed while trying to fend him off. Barbara manages to escape and takes refuge in a nearby farmhouse.

There, she meets Ben (Duane Jones), a resourceful and pragmatic man who has also taken shelter in the house. They are soon joined by other survivors, including a young couple named Tom (Keith Wayne) and Judy (Judith Ridley), and a family consisting of Harry (Karl Hardman), his wife Helen (Marilyn Eastman), and their daughter Karen (Kyra Schon).

As the night progresses, the group must fend off increasing numbers of zombies who are trying to break into the house. Tensions rise between the survivors as they argue about the best course of action, and they are further tested when Karen, who was bitten by a zombie earlier in the day, reanimates and attacks her mother.

In the end, Ben is the sole survivor, but he is shot and killed by a posse of zombie hunters who mistake him for one of the undead.

“Night of the Living Dead” is notable for its groundbreaking use of horror and gore, as well as its commentary on race relations in America, with Ben being portrayed as a strong and capable African American man at a time when such portrayals were rare in mainstream cinema.

Directors:
George A. Romero

Writer:
John A. Russo, George A. Romero

Stars:
Duane Jones, Judith O’Dea, Karl Hardman

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M (1931)
4/5 (1)

“M” is a German thriller film released in 1931, directed by Fritz Lang and starring Peter Lorre, Ellen Widmann, and Inge Landgut. The film tells the story of a child murderer who terrorizes the city of Berlin, and the efforts of both the police and the criminal underworld to capture him.

The film opens with the murder of a young girl, and we see the impact that the crime has on the city as panic and fear spread throughout the community. The police launch an intensive investigation, but their efforts are hampered by the murderer’s cunning and elusive nature.

Meanwhile, the criminal underworld also takes notice of the killings, and a group of gangsters form their own search party to find the murderer and bring him to justice. When the murderer is eventually caught, he is put on trial, and we see the conflict between the desire for justice and the need for compassion and mercy.

Peter Lorre delivers a chilling and unforgettable performance as the child murderer, portraying him as a disturbed and tortured individual who is unable to control his own impulses. Fritz Lang’s masterful direction creates a dark and suspenseful atmosphere that captures the anxiety and paranoia of a city in crisis.

The film explores themes of crime and punishment, justice and mercy, and the uneasy relationship between the law and the criminal underworld. “M” is widely regarded as a classic of German cinema and a landmark in the history of thriller films.

Directors:
Fritz Lang

Writer:
Thea von Harbou, Fritz Lang, Egon Jacobsohn

Stars:
Peter Lorre, Ellen Widmann, Inge Landgut

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Fog Island (1945)
4.5/5 (4)

“Fog Island” is a 1945 mystery-thriller film directed by Terry O. Morse and starring George Zucco, Lionel Atwill, and Jerome Cowan. The plot centers around a group of people who are invited to a remote island by eccentric millionaire, Geoffrey Bishop, who they believe wants to discuss a business proposition with them. However, they soon realize that Bishop has other, more sinister plans.

As the group arrives on the fog-shrouded island, they discover that they are cut off from the mainland due to a storm. Strange occurrences begin to happen, and tension rises as each guest realizes that they are being targeted by an unknown assailant. The group soon learns that Bishop has invited them to the island to exact revenge on those he believes are responsible for his imprisonment and financial ruin.

As the story unfolds, the guests attempt to figure out who is behind the attacks and what Bishop’s true motives are. In the end, they discover that Bishop is not who he appears to be and that his twisted plan involves framing one of the guests for his crimes.

The film is notable for its moody atmosphere, eerie setting, and use of suspenseful music to heighten tension. It is considered a classic example of the “old dark house” genre of thriller films that were popular in the 1930s and 1940s.

Directors:
Terry O. Morse

Writer:
Pierre Gendron, Bernadine Angus

Stars:
George Zucc, oLionel Atwill, Jerome Cowan

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Dick Tracy Detective (1945)
3/5 (1)

“Dick Tracy Detective” is a 1945 crime drama film directed by William A. Berke and starring Morgan Conway as the famous detective Dick Tracy.

The film follows the story of Dick Tracy as he investigates a series of crimes committed by a ruthless gang of criminals led by Steve “The Claw” Michel. The Claw and his gang have been terrorizing the city, committing robberies and murders without being caught.

As Tracy gets closer to unraveling the mystery behind The Claw, he discovers that the criminal mastermind has a personal vendetta against him. With the help of his trusted colleagues, Tracy sets out to bring The Claw to justice and put an end to his reign of terror.

Throughout the film, Tracy faces dangerous and thrilling challenges, including a high-speed car chase and a deadly confrontation with The Claw in a final showdown.

“Dick Tracy Detective” is a classic crime drama that captures the spirit of the iconic comic book character. Conway delivers a solid performance as Tracy, and the film’s action-packed plot and suspenseful twists keep viewers engaged until the end. The film remains a must-see for fans of crime dramas and the Dick Tracy franchise.

Directors:
William Berke

Writer:
Eric Taylor, Chester Gould

Stars:
Morgan Conway, Anne Jeffreys, Mike Mazurki

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Dementia 13 (1963)
3/5 (1)

“Dementia 13” is a 1963 horror film directed by Francis Ford Coppola and produced by Roger Corman.

The film tells the story of the dysfunctional Haloran family, who gather at their Irish castle to commemorate the anniversary of the death of the youngest daughter Kathleen. However, the family is haunted by the tragedy, and tensions rise as they compete for the inheritance.

When John, the husband of the eldest Haloran daughter, Louise, arrives unexpectedly, he begins to investigate the circumstances surrounding Kathleen’s death. As he delves deeper into the family’s secrets, he discovers a sinister plot involving murder and deception.

As the family members begin to die one by one, John must race against time to uncover the truth and stop the killer before it’s too late.

“Dementia 13” is a classic horror film that showcases Coppola’s early talent as a director. The film’s moody atmosphere, Gothic setting, and suspenseful plot make it a must-see for horror fans. The film also features a haunting musical score by Ronald Stein and a memorable performance by Luana Anders as the troubled and enigmatic daughter-in-law.

Directors:
Francis Ford Coppola

Writer:
Francis Ford Coppola, Jack Hill

Stars:
William Campbell, Luana Anders, Bart Patton

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Downhill (1927)
3/5 (1)

“Downhill” is a 1927 silent drama film directed by Alfred Hitchcock and starring Ivor Novello, Isabel Jeans, and Robin Irvine.

The film follows the story of Roddy Berwick, a popular and wealthy young man who is falsely accused of fathering a child by a young woman. His reputation is ruined and his friends and family turn against him, leading him to leave school and set out on a downward spiral.

As he struggles to survive in the harsh realities of life, Roddy meets a series of characters who take advantage of him and lead him further down the path of despair. He becomes involved with a dance hall girl, loses his job, and is forced to sleep on the streets.

In the end, Roddy is rescued by his former schoolmaster, who helps him clear his name and rebuild his life. He reconciles with his family and friends, but the experiences he has gone through have left their mark on him.

“Downhill” is a poignant and powerful drama that explores the themes of social class, reputation, and the harsh realities of life. Hitchcock’s skillful direction and Novello’s powerful performance make the film a classic of the silent era, and a must-see for fans of the director and the genre.

Directors:
Alfred Hitchcock

Writer:
Constance Collier, Ivor Novello, Eliot Stannard

Stars:
Ivor Novello, Ben Webster, Norman McKinnel

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Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome (1947)
3/5 (1)

“Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome” is a 1947 crime thriller film based on the popular comic strip character Dick Tracy. The film was directed by John Rawlins and stars Ralph Byrd as Dick Tracy, Anne Gwynne as Tess Trueheart, and Boris Karloff as Gruesome.

In the film, Dick Tracy is investigating a series of robberies and murders that appear to be connected to a notorious criminal named Gruesome. Gruesome is a mysterious and dangerous figure who has eluded the police for years, and Tracy is determined to bring him to justice.

As Tracy gets closer to Gruesome, he finds himself facing numerous dangers, including being held captive by the criminal mastermind and his henchmen. With the help of his loyal partner, Pat Patton, and his girlfriend Tess Trueheart, Tracy must use all of his detective skills to outsmart Gruesome and bring him to justice.

Throughout the film, Tracy and Gruesome engage in a thrilling game of cat-and-mouse, with Tracy always one step behind Gruesome. But in the end, Tracy is able to outwit Gruesome and bring him to justice, foiling his plans and saving the day.

“Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome” is a classic crime thriller filled with suspense, action, and intrigue, and is a must-see for fans of the genre and the Dick Tracy character.

Directors:
John Rawlins

Writer:
Robertson White, Eric Taylor, William Graffis

Stars:
Boris Karloff, Ralph Byrd, Anne Gwynne

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Dick Tracy’s Dilemma (1947)
3/5 (1)

“Dick Tracy’s Dilemma” is a 1947 crime thriller film based on the popular comic strip character Dick Tracy. The film was directed by John Rawlins and stars Ralph Byrd as Dick Tracy, Lyle Latell as Pat Patton, and Kay Christopher as Tess Trueheart.

In the film, Dick Tracy is investigating a series of murders that seem to be linked to a new nightclub in town. As he delves deeper into the case, he discovers that the owner of the nightclub, Louie the Wolf, is using it as a front for his illegal activities.

Tracy’s investigation is complicated when he discovers that his own brother, Gordon, is involved with Louie and is being blackmailed. Tracy must navigate his loyalty to his family and his duty as a police officer while trying to bring Louie to justice.

Throughout the film, Tracy faces many obstacles and dangers, including being kidnapped and locked in a room with a ticking time bomb. But with the help of his loyal friend and partner Pat Patton, and his girlfriend Tess Trueheart, Tracy is able to solve the case and bring the criminals to justice.

“Dick Tracy’s Dilemma” is a classic crime drama filled with suspense, action, and intrigue, and is a must-see for fans of the genre and the Dick Tracy character.

Directors:
John Rawlins

Writer:
Robert Stephen Brode, Chester Gould

Stars:
Ralph Byrd, Lyle Latell, Kay Christopher

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British Intelligence (1940)
4/5 (1)

“British Intelligence” is a 1940 spy thriller directed by Terry O. Morse and starring Boris Karloff, Margaret Lindsay, and Bruce Lester. The film is set in World War I and revolves around the efforts of British intelligence to infiltrate a German spy ring operating in London.

Karloff plays Valdar, a German spy who is posing as a scientist working for the British government. His true allegiance is discovered by a young British agent named Richard Hannay (Lester), who sets out to expose the spy ring and prevent Valdar from delivering vital military secrets to the Germans.

The film is notable for its patriotic themes and its depiction of the heroic efforts of British intelligence during the war. It also features several suspenseful action sequences, including a thrilling chase through the London underground.

“British Intelligence” was made at the height of World War II and was intended to boost morale and inspire audiences to support the war effort. The film was well-received upon its release and helped establish Karloff as a leading character actor.

Directors:
Terry O. Morse

Writer:
Lee Katz, Anthony Paul Kelly

Stars:
Boris Karloff, Margaret Lindsay, Bruce Lester

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Black & White Series

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Top Rated Moveis

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