By Wesley Harris
Somewhere along the way, black-and-white movies developed an undeserved reputation. Mention one, and people react as though watching it might permanently damage their eyesight.
“It’s black and white?”
Yes. And so are newspapers. Somehow we’ve survived both.
The truth is some of Hollywood’s greatest stories were filmed before color became standard. These movies rely on sharp writing, memorable characters and performances so good you’ll forget they’re not in Technicolor after about five minutes.
If you’ve never ventured into classic cinema—or if it’s been a while—here are 10 black-and-white films that deserve a spot on your watch list.
The Canterville Ghost (1944)
Adorable child actress Margaret O’Brien steals nearly every scene in this charming comedy-fantasy about a centuries-old ghost who can’t seem to scare the U.S. Army unit that moves into his castle during World War II. Charles Laughton is wonderfully grumpy as the frustrated ghost, but it’s O’Brien’s warmth and determination that make this film unforgettable. Funny, touching, sometimes a little silly and just spooky enough, the film is an irresistible mixture of ghost story, wartime comedy and family adventure.
Roman Holiday (1953)
Audrey Hepburn won the Academy Award for best actress in her very first starring role, and it’s easy to see why. She plays a European princess who slips away from her royal duties to spend one magical day exploring Rome with an American reporter played by Gregory Peck, who doesn’t let on that he knows who she is. Funny, romantic and bittersweet, this is one of Hollywood’s most beloved love stories.
Arsenic and Old Lace (1944)
If your family gatherings seem a little unusual, wait until you meet the Brewsters. Cary Grant races through this wonderfully chaotic comedy after discovering his sweet elderly aunts have a rather disturbing hobby involving lonely old gentlemen and homemade elderberry wine. It’s one of the funniest dark comedies ever filmed.
To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)
Gregory Peck’s Oscar-winning performance as Atticus Finch anchors this faithful adaptation of Harper Lee’s classic novel. Told through the eyes of young Scout, the film explores justice, courage and compassion in a small Southern town. Powerful, moving and just as relevant today as when it premiered.
Red River (1948)
Before modern Westerns became fashionable, John Wayne and Montgomery Clift showed everyone how it was done. This epic cattle-drive adventure delivers breathtaking scenery, tense action and a memorable clash between a stubborn trail boss and the young man who challenges his authority.
The Grapes of Wrath (1940)
John Ford’s adaptation of John Steinbeck’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel follows the Joad family as they leave the Dust Bowl in search of a better life in California. Henry Fonda gives one of the finest performances of his career in a film that remains both heartbreaking and inspiring.
The Ghost and Mrs. Muir (1947)
Part romance, part fantasy and part ghost story, this gentle classic tells the story of a young widow who moves into a seaside cottage haunted by a retired sea captain. Rex Harrison and Gene Tierney create one of cinema’s most unusual—and touching—love stories.
Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939)
James Stewart plays an idealistic young senator who discovers honesty isn’t exactly popular in Washington. Frank Capra’s timeless political drama is inspiring, funny and suspenseful, featuring one of the greatest filibuster scenes ever put on film.
The Thin Man (1934)
Forget every detective you’ve ever seen on television. William Powell and Myrna Loy are Nick and Nora Charles, a wealthy, wisecracking married couple who stumble into a murder mystery while trading witty banter, sipping cocktails and letting their wire fox terrier, Asta, steal a few scenes of his own. Equal parts mystery and comedy, it’s one of the most entertaining films Hollywood ever produced.
The Philadelphia Story (1940)
Katharine Hepburn, Cary Grant and James Stewart form one of the greatest casts ever assembled. Set during the chaotic days leading up to a society wedding, this sparkling romantic comedy is full of sharp dialogue, mistaken identities and enough charm to brighten any evening.
The next time you’re scrolling endlessly through streaming services looking for something “new,” consider going back 80 years or so. These films have lasted because they tell great stories with unforgettable characters, not because of special effects. You may have to seek a DVD or Amazon rental since you won’t find these on Netflix or Apple TV+.
Give one a try. Within a few minutes, you’ll probably stop noticing it’s black and white—and start wondering why you waited so long. You might even find yourself wondering what other cinematic treasures you’ve been missing.
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