The 90 Best Black And White Movies
A heartwarming tale of redemption and second chances, this film centers on George Bailey, a despondent man contemplating suicide on Christmas Eve. After a guardian angel named Clarence shows George what life would have been like had he never existed, it becomes clear how important one person's actions can be. Directed by Frank Capra and starring James Stewart, the movie has become a beloved holiday staple for families around the world.
More It's a Wonderful Life- Dig Deeper...It's A Wonderful Life Is Not The Heartwarming Movie You Remember
- #273 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #7 of 126 onThe Best Christmas Movies Of All Time
- 1942
Set in World War II, this iconic film follows the romantic and political entanglements of an American expatriate named Rick, who runs a nightclub in the titular Moroccan city. When his former lover and her husband, a Czech resistance leader, arrive in town, Rick's loyalties are tested. With unforgettable performances from Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, the movie remains a timeless classic for its themes of love, sacrifice, and heroism.
More Casablanca- #60 of 262 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #456 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #6 of 96 onThe Very Best Oscar-Winning Movies For Best Picture
- 1960
Directed by the master of suspense, Alfred Hitchcock, this chilling thriller follows Marion Crane, a secretary who embezzles money from her employer and checks into the remote Bates Motel. From there, she encounters the motel's mysterious owner, Norman Bates, and his overbearing mother. The groundbreaking shower scene and Anthony Perkins' haunting portrayal of Bates make this film a spine-tingling classic that continues to disturb audiences to this day.
More Psycho- #9 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #330 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #20 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
A true screwball comedy classic, the film follows an heiress who runs away from her controlling father and meets a brash reporter eager to get a scoop on her story. Their journey together results in a witty, lively, and ultimately heartwarming rom-com. With sparkling chemistry between its leads Claudette Colbert and Clark Gable, the film still delights modern audiences.
More It Happened One Night- #37 of 96 onThe Very Best Oscar-Winning Movies For Best Picture
- #203 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #97 of 136 onThe 100+ Best Movies For Date Night
This captivating detective story follows hard-boiled private investigator Sam Spade as he searches for the elusive titular artifact amidst a web of dangerous characters and double-crosses. Based on Dashiell Hammett's novel, the film introduced the world to Humphrey Bogart's iconic portrayal of Spade, setting the stage for many more memorable roles to come. Director John Huston expertly crafts a gripping and atmospheric mystery that endures as one of the finest works of 1940s cinema.
More The Maltese Falcon- #672 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #105 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #7 of 63 onThe Greatest Directorial Debuts Of All Time
This darkly comedic gem revolves around drama critic Mortimer Brewster, who discovers that his eccentric aunts have been poisoning lonely old men with their lethal elderberry wine. With fast-paced dialogue, bizarre characters, and a macabre sense of humor, the film is the epitome of a screwball comedy. Cary Grant's manic performance as Mortimer adds to the hilarity and enduring charm of the movie.
More Arsenic and Old Lace- #650 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #144 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #50 of 89 onThe Most Rewatchable Comedy Movies
- 1944
This quintessential film noir weaves a dark and twisted tale of lust, greed, and betrayal as insurance salesman Walter Neff becomes embroiled in a plot to kill a woman's husband for the insurance payout. Barbara Stanwyck's femme fatale turns heads and makes hearts race, while Fred MacMurray's descent into darkness is equally enthralling. The movie's clever script, striking visuals, and compelling performances make it an undisputed classic of the genre.
More Double Indemnity- #227 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #268 of 308 onThe 295+ Best Movies For Guys
- #19 of 51 onThe Best Movies Based on Short Stories
- 1931
Based on Mary Shelley's groundbreaking novel, this chilling horror film stars Boris Karloff as the tragic creature brought to life by the ambitious Dr. Frankenstein. With its gothic atmosphere and gripping exploration of humanity, the movie has left an indelible mark on the genre. The haunting themes of creation, ambition, and loneliness continue to resonate with viewers nearly a century after its release.
More Frankenstein- #84 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #152 of 397 onThe Best Horror Movies Of All Time
- #70 of 98 onThe Best Movies with Only One Word for a Title
- 1940
In Alfred Hitchcock's first American film, a young woman marries a wealthy widower and moves into his isolated mansion, only to find herself haunted by the specter of his late wife, the titular Rebecca. This gothic romance boasts captivating performances from Laurence Olivier and Joan Fontaine, as well as Hitchcock's signature atmospheric suspense. The movie's lingering sense of mystery and unease remains effective long after the credits roll.
More Rebecca- #129 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #222 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #49 of 96 onThe Very Best Oscar-Winning Movies For Best Picture
A gripping tale of greed and morality, this film follows two Americans who team up with a grizzled prospector in search of gold in the Sierra Madre mountains. As tensions rise and suspicions mount, the men's friendships and loyalties are put to the test. With masterful performances from Humphrey Bogart and Walter Huston, the movie is a timeless exploration of the corrupting influence of wealth.
- #56 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #274 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #68 of 200 onThe 195+ Greatest Adventure Movies
- 1953
A delightful romantic comedy with Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck, this film tells the story of a sheltered princess who escapes from her royal obligations to explore Rome incognito. Along the way, she meets an American reporter who recognizes her and hopes to land an exclusive story. With its charming leads, picturesque Italian settings, and heartwarming romance, the movie remains a beloved classic.
More Roman Holiday- #666 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #56 of 136 onThe 100+ Best Movies For Date Night
- #177 of 473 onThe 400+ Best Chick Flicks Ever
- 1933
This thrilling adventure film tells the story of a film crew that ventures to Skull Island, where they discover a colossal ape who becomes enamored with the crew's leading lady. As the creature wreaks havoc on New York City, the film explores themes of beauty, captivity, and humanity. The groundbreaking special effects and iconic Empire State Building scene have made this an enduring classic.
More King Kong- #83 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- #154 of 397 onThe Best Horror Movies Of All Time
- #18 of 71 onThe Scariest Animal Horror Movies Ever Made
- 1946
Another suspenseful masterpiece from Alfred Hitchcock, this espionage thriller stars Ingrid Bergman as Alicia, the daughter of a convicted Nazi spy recruited by the American government to infiltrate a group of her father's former colleagues in Brazil. With brilliant performances from Bergman, Cary Grant, and Claude Rains, the film showcases Hitchcock's mastery of tension and atmosphere. Its intricate plotting and memorable love triangle solidify its status as a classic.
In this chilling psychological thriller, Bette Davis and Joan Crawford play aging sisters - a former child star and a disabled former actress - who are locked in a toxic and twisted relationship. As tensions escalate and the sisters' psychological stability crumbles, the movie delves into dark territory. The intense rivalry between the two legendary actresses on and off-screen provides compelling subtext, making the film even more captivating.
- #11 of 49 onThe Top 45+ Films Released In 1962
- #75 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #40 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- 1993
A harrowing and powerful account of the Holocaust, this film tells the true story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved the lives of over a thousand Polish Jews by employing them in his factories. Through its unflinching portrayal of the horrors faced during this dark period in history, the movie conveys a profound message about the capacity for good within humankind. Directed by Steven Spielberg and featuring an unforgettable performance by Liam Neeson, it remains one of the most important and affecting films ever made.
More Schindler's List- Dig Deeper...Movies That Won Best Picture at the Oscars and Golden Globes
- #6 of 262 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #266 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- 1941
Famed for its innovative storytelling and groundbreaking cinematography, this seminal film examines the life of Charles Foster Kane, a wealthy newspaper magnate whose pursuit of power ultimately leaves him isolated and unfulfilled. Directed by and starring Orson Welles, the movie's nonlinear narrative and deep focus photography forever changed the landscape of cinema. The enigmatic "Rosebud" remains a topic of fascination, cementing the film's status as one of the greatest masterpieces of all time.
More Citizen Kane- #704 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #2 of 63 onThe Greatest Directorial Debuts Of All Time
- #146 of 191 onThe Best Movies For Men
One of Alfred Hitchcock's most suspenseful films, this thriller follows a chance encounter between two men who jokingly discuss swapping murders to eliminate their respective problems. When one of them makes good on the plan, the other must scramble to save himself and put an end to the deadly scheme. This chilling tale of obsession, deception, and guilt leaves audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
More Strangers on a Train- #131 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #733 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #17 of 81 onThe 75+ Best Whodunit Murder Mystery Movies
A poignant political drama directed by Frank Capra, this film follows an idealistic, small-town man named Jefferson Smith, who is unexpectedly appointed to the US Senate. Despite encountering corruption and cynicism at every turn, he perseveres in his fight for justice. With James Stewart delivering one of his most iconic performances, the movie still resonates with viewers in today's turbulent political climate.
- 1950
This sophisticated drama examines the ambition, jealousy, and betrayal faced by Margo Channing, an aging theater actress who takes a seemingly innocent young woman named Eve under her wing. As Eve's true nature unfolds and she begins to manipulate her way into stardom, the relations between the characters become increasingly complex and fascinating. Bette Davis and Anne Baxter deliver outstanding performances, and the film's razor-sharp dialogue and biting commentary on fame remain poignant and relevant.
More All About Eve- #717 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #36 of 96 onThe Very Best Oscar-Winning Movies For Best Picture
- #87 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- 1950
A dark and twisted tale about Hollywood's seedy underbelly, this film follows struggling screenwriter Joe Gillis, who finds himself entangled in the web of faded silent film star Norma Desmond as she attempts to stage a comeback. With its biting critique of fame, obsession, and ego, the movie remains a powerful exploration of the darker side of show business. Gloria Swanson's portrayal of the delusional and tragic Norma is a haunting performance that lingers long after the final scene.
- 1952
A Western classic, this tense and morally complex film follows Marshal Will Kane as he faces down a gang of vengeful outlaws alone, after being abandoned by the townspeople he swore to protect. Gary Cooper's stoic performance solidifies his status as an icon of the genre, while the film's real-time pacing and unforgettable score intensify the drama. The movie's enduring themes of courage, responsibility, and community continue to resonate with viewers.
More High Noon- #27 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #14 of 41 onThe 100+ Best Movies Streaming On The Criterion Channel
- #104 of 308 onThe 295+ Best Movies For Guys
- 1931
Based on Bram Stoker's classic novel, this chilling horror film features Bela Lugosi in his iconic role as the titular vampire count. Its atmospheric visuals, stylized performances, and suspenseful pacing set the standard for future adaptations of the famous tale. The movie's lasting impact can be felt throughout the entire vampire genre, making it an essential piece of horror history.
More Dracula- #77 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #23 of 57 onThe Best Horror Movies Based On True Stories, Ranked
- #135 of 397 onThe Best Horror Movies Of All Time
- 1946
This engrossing film noir, based on Raymond Chandler's novel, stars Humphrey Bogart as world-weary private detective Philip Marlowe, hired to investigate a wealthy family's dark secrets. As he uncovers a labyrinthine plot filled with blackmail, murder, and betrayal, the convoluted story becomes secondary to the film's moody atmosphere and sizzling chemistry between Bogart and his co-star (and real-life wife) Lauren Bacall. The movie remains a touchstone of classic detective thrillers and noir storytelling.
- 1949
Set in post-World War II Vienna, this atmospheric thriller follows an American writer searching for the truth behind the mysterious death of his friend Harry Lime. As he delves deeper into the intrigue and corruption lurking beneath the city's surface, the film masterfully builds tension and suspense. Orson Welles' enigmatic portrayal of Lime and the iconic zither score contribute to the movie's status as a classic of the noir genre.
More The Third Man- #186 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #126 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- #39 of 81 onThe 75+ Best Whodunit Murder Mystery Movies
- 1954
Starring Audrey Hepburn, William Holden, and Humphrey Bogart, this enchanting romantic comedy tells the story of a young, shy chauffeur's daughter who falls in love with her wealthy employer's reckless playboy son. After a transformative trip to Paris, she returns home to find herself being courted by both brothers. With its captivating charm, wit, and heartwarming romance, the film continues to delight viewers of all ages.
More Sabrina- #623 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #55 of 136 onThe 100+ Best Movies For Date Night
- #87 of 98 onThe Best Movies with Only One Word for a Title
Marlon Brando delivers a legendary performance as Terry Malloy, a dockworker who unwittingly becomes involved in the rampant corruption plaguing his industry. His struggle between loyalty to his mob-connected brother and love for the sister of a murdered worker forces him to confront his own conscience. With its powerful themes of redemption and standing up for justice, the film continues to captivate and inspire audiences today.
More On the Waterfront- Dig Deeper...Movies That Won Best Picture at the Oscars and Golden Globes
- #680 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #29 of 96 onThe Very Best Oscar-Winning Movies For Best Picture
- 1938
This screwball comedy classic stars Cary Grant as a mild-mannered paleontologist whose life is turned upside down when he encounters the eccentric, leopard-owning heiress Susan Vance, played by Katharine Hepburn. As their paths become increasingly intertwined, both romantically and chaotically, the fast-paced banter and madcap antics make the movie an enduring delight. Hepburn's effervescent charm and Grant's comedic prowess are a delectable combination that continues to charm viewers today.
More Bringing Up Baby- #303 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #10 of 46 on50+ Quirky Romance Movies With Unique Love Stories
- #323 of 633 onThe 600+ Funniest Movies Of All Time
- 1961
With a career-defining performance by Paul Newman, this gritty drama follows the life of "Fast Eddie" Felson, a talented pool shark determined to prove himself as the best in the game. As his ambition takes him into the world of high-stakes gambling and dangerous opponents, he learns that victory comes with a heavy price. The movie's realistic portrayal of the competitive pool scene and its themes of pride, redemption, and obsession continue to captivate audiences.
- 1940
Starring Cary Grant and Rosalind Russell, this fast-paced screwball comedy follows a newspaper editor attempting to sabotage his ex-wife and star reporter's upcoming remarriage by assigning her to cover a major story. Filled with rapid-fire dialogue, sexual tension, and hilarious scenarios, the film showcases the undeniable chemistry between its leads. Its sharp wit and unrelenting energy remain a testament to the enduring appeal of classic Hollywood comedies.
More His Girl Friday- #256 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #407 of 633 onThe 600+ Funniest Movies Of All Time
- #18 of 75 onThe 75 Best Classic Romance Movies
Based on John Steinbeck's powerful novel, this film chronicles the Joad family's arduous journey from their dustbowl-stricken Oklahoma farm to the promise of a better life in California during the Great Depression. With its unflinching portrayal of poverty, desperation, and resilience, the movie is a stark reminder of the human cost of economic hardship. Henry Fonda's heartfelt performance as Tom Joad anchors this moving and important piece of cinematic history.
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- #63 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- #55 of 133 onThe Most Utterly Depressing Movies Ever Made