Here's a story I won't soon forget: a while back, I was sitting at lunch opposite my twenty-eight year old second cousin once removed, with a host of other family members. It being a reunion of sorts, the mood was jolly.
I’ve always liked this particular cousin — she's smart, brassy, funny, and well spoken. The kind of young person that gives you hope for the future.
But on this particular occasion, she dropped a bomb on me. Regarding me in a direct but matter-of-fact way, she said: “I won’t watch black and white movies, and most of my friends won’t either.” She went on to explain that from what she’d seen of these dusty old relics, they were slow, talky, and the acting seemed forced.
Trying hard to hide my dismay, I replied that she and her pals were depriving themselves of some of the greatest films ever made. Movies should be judged — at least partially — in the context of their time, I continued. Before the advent of the “Method,” on-screen acting techniques were indeed closer to the broader traditions of the theater, but you could still find plenty of amazing performances in older movies. In addition, I posited, black and white cinematography could be uniquely stunning. Concluding with a flourish, I stated that many of the best older titles offered something that too many new movies lack: namely, quality scripts and stories.
My cousin listened politely and gave me an indulgent smile. I was getting precisely nowhere.
For me, it’s a sobering thought that some younger people might reject any film not made in color (with the possible exception of “Schindler’s List”), and in fact might be unwilling to consider color options further back than, say, the early ‘70s, thinking of that fertile time in moviemaking as ancient history. I can only hope their curiosity increases as they age, for then a marvelous exploration will open up for them.
RELATED: 11 Incredible Lesser-Known Classics Streaming on Netflix
On this site, black and white features comprise about a third of the database. On the American Film Institute’s (AFI) original ranking of the top 100 American movies, black and white classics made up about 40 percent of the total. That’s a lot of great movies to turn your back on.
Here now are twelve black and white classics, available on Netflix, that I consider unmissable. Notwithstanding my obstinate cousin, I still have faith that through these timeless films, we might open a few more young eyes to the rewards of black and white cinema. For you older, more enlightened readers, these titles benefit from repeat viewings as well. Remember: it's better to watch a great movie again than an average one the first time.
*Note: Streaming availability reflects time this piece was originally published.*
The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920)
This crowning work of German Expressionism remains a creepy, moody visual feast.
Metropolis (1927)
Fritz Lang's original science fiction epic still blows away all that followed. See how it all began!
The General (1927)
The idea that younger comedy fans have never heard of Buster Keaton? Tragic.
The Lady Vanishes (1938)
OK- most still know Hitchcock, but some of his best work was in black and white! Here's Exhibit A.
His Girl Friday (1940)
It's widely acknowledged as one of our sharpest, fastest comedies. Would you really pass on this?
Bicycle Thieves (1948)
Uh-oh, this one has subtitles too. But it's still one of the most heartbreaking films ever made.
Twelve O'Clock High (1949)
As real and penetrating a glimpse into the human price of war as you're likely to find.
All About Eve (1950)
The quintessential movie about Broadway, with all its slings and arrows. A work of genius.
Sunset Boulevard (1950)
The quintessential movie about old Hollywood. She's ready for her close-up, Mr. DeMille!
High Noon (1952)
This potent psychological Western explores the theme of cowardice- and the price of going it alone.
The Apartment (1960)
Charming, touching dramedy concerns finding true love in America's loneliest city. A gem.
Nebraska (2013)
Dotty Dad and extremely patient son bond over a seemingly pointless road trip- or is it?
More: 12 of the Best Classic Movies Streaming on Amazon Prime
The 12 Best Action Movies Streaming on Netflix
9 Life-Changing Documentaries Streaming on Netflix
