Classic Gems: 10 Iconic Black and White Films Worth Watching

Black and white movies may not be as popular as modern-day movies, but they are classics. Every connoisseur of cinema should watch them at least once. Recently, in a platform discussion, people have shared black and white movies that are a must-watch for any film enthusiast.

1. Seven Samurai (1954)

Seven Samurai (1954)
Image Credit: Toho.

Directed by Akira Kurosawa, Seven Samurai is a masterpiece of Japanese cinema. The movie tells the story of seven samurai hired to protect a village from bandits. With brilliant action scenes, complex characters, and Kurosawa's masterful direction, this movie is a must-watch for any cinema fan.

2. Double Indemnity (1944)

Double Indemnity (1944)
Image Credit: Paramount Pictures.

Step into the world of the iconic Billy Wilder as he brings to life the quintessential film noir featuring the timeless talents of Barbara Stanwyck and Fred MacMurray. The movie follows an insurance salesman drawn into a scheme to murder a man for his life insurance policy. People love this movie for its sharp dialogue, moody lighting, and iconic performances.

3. Twelve Angry Men (1957)

Twelve Angry Men (1957)
Image Credit: Orion-Nova Productions.

Twelve Angry Men is a courtroom drama directed by Sidney Lumet and starring Henry Fonda. The movie occurs entirely in a jury room as twelve jurors deliberate the fate of a young man accused of murder. This movie is a timeless classic with tension-filled scenes and powerhouse performances from the entire cast.

4. To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)

To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)
Image Credit: Universal Pictures.

This movie is an adaptation of Harper Lee's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. In the heart-wrenching drama set in the 1930s South, Gregory Peck delivers a captivating performance as Atticus Finch, a lawyer who valiantly defends a black man against charges of rape.

Through the innocent eyes of Scout, the film delves into the issues of racism and injustice that plague society. With an unforgettable performance from Peck and beautiful cinematography, this movie remains a powerful commentary on race relations.

5. Dr. Strangelove (1964)

Dr. Strangelove (1964)
Image Credit: Columbia Pictures.

Prepare to enter the darkly comedic world of Stanley Kubrick as he takes on the absurdities of war in the satirical masterpiece, “Dr. Strangelove.” Featuring the impeccable performances of Peter Sellers, George C. Scott, and Sterling Hayden, this film is a must-see for any lover of dark humor.

The film is a political satire about the Cold War, where the United States and Soviet Union engaged in a nuclear war that ultimately led to the world's destruction. The film is known for its dark humor and provocative subject matter, making it a must-see for fans of black comedy.

6. Arsenic and Old Lace (1944)

Arsenic and Old Lace (1944)
Image Credit: Warner Bros.

Embark on a nostalgic journey with the classic comedy “Arsenic and Old Lace,” revived by the renowned director Frank Capra. This movie features the incomparable Cary Grant, the delightful Priscilla Lane, and the talented Raymond Massey.

The movie revolves around the Brewster family, including two old aunts fond of poisoning lonely older men and a nephew who believes he is Theodore Roosevelt. The film is filled with witty dialogue and hilarious moments, making it a timeless classic.

7. Psycho (1960)

Psycho (1960)
Image Credit: Paramount Pictures.

A psychological horror-thriller directed by Alfred Hitchcock and stars Anthony Perkins and Janet Leigh. Marion Crane, a secretary who embezzles money from her employer, finds herself at the Bates Motel, where she encounters the enigmatic and disconcerting Norman Bates. The film traces their interaction. The film is regarded as one of Hitchcock's masterpieces and a must-watch for horror and thriller fans.

8. All About Eve (1950)

All About Eve (1950)
Image Credit: 20th Century Fox.

All About Eve is a drama film directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz and stars Bette Davis, Anne Baxter, and George Sanders. The film follows a young woman named Eve Harrington, who becomes the protégé of an aging Broadway star named Margo Channing.

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As Eve's true motives are revealed, the film delves into ambition, jealousy, and betrayal themes. The movie was critically acclaimed upon its release and is still celebrated as a timeless classic of American cinema.

9. Harvey (1950)

Harvey (1950)
Image Credit: Universal Pictures.

Another charming and heartwarming comedy, “Harvey” stars James Stewart as Elwood P. Dowd, a friendly and eccentric man who claims to have an invisible friend named Harvey, a giant rabbit. Despite his family's concern and attempts to commit him to a psychiatric hospital, Elwood embraces his unique perspective on life and shares his kindness and generosity with everyone he meets.

10. The Night of the Hunter (1955)

The Night of the Hunter (1955)
Image Credit:
Paul Gregory Productions.

The Night of the Hunter is a dark and suspenseful thriller that stars Robert Mitchum as Harry Powell, a charismatic and dangerous con man who poses as a preacher to seduce and rob his unsuspecting victims.

When Powell learns that a young widow and her children have inherited a large sum of money, he sets his sights on them, leading to a terrifying game of cat and mouse as the family tries to evade his ruthless pursuit. The film's striking visual style and tense atmosphere make it a classic of the film noir genre.

“She Supports Donald Trump?” 10 Surprising Stars Who Support The Former President

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There are many stars who support the former president that will surprise you.

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These 10 Celebrity “Real” Names Are Very Different Than Their “Stage” Names

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Many celebrities take on stage names to either protect their identity, or to reinvent themselves into someone else. Here are 10 celebrities' stage names vs. their real names.

“I Hate Them Together” These 10 Surprising Celebrity Couples Made Fans Furious

Image Credit: Brenden Thorne.

Everyone has their preferences as to who their favorite celebs should have a happily ever after with. And, understandably, fans can become upset when those happily ever after dreams are crushed. Here is a list of celebrity couples that fans absolutely did not approve of.

10 Canceled TV Shows People Want To Come Back

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Television shows come and go, but some leave a lasting impression on viewers that they yearn to see them make a comeback. Recently on an online platform, people have shared several canceled TV shows they want to see revived. From quirky comedies to epic dramas, these shows had dedicated fan bases that still hold out hope for their return.
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