When talking about the best black-and-white movies, it’s impossible to ignore their impact on the evolution of cinema. These films are not just visually striking, but they also tell emotionally powerful stories that continue to influence filmmakers today. Whether you’re drawn to suspense, romantic dramas, or historical pieces, this list includes must-watch masterpieces that show how much can be done without color.
Here are 12 of the best black-and-white movies that every cinephile should experience at least once in their life.
12. Roma (2018)
Alfonso Cuarón’s semi-autobiographical film Roma is a portrait of a housekeeper in 1970s Mexico City. Shot in stunning black and white, the film captures everyday moments with grace. It’s both intimate and epic, and one of the best black-and-white movies of the 21st century, as an ode to memory, family, and social change.
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11. The Apartment (1960)
This romantic drama from Billy Wilder stars Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine in a bittersweet tale of ambition and loneliness in corporate America. The Apartment balances sharp humor with emotional depth, all framed by black-and-white visuals that evoke both glamour and melancholy. It’s a charming, layered film that’s as relevant today as it was in the ‘60s.
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10. Raging Bull (1980)
Martin Scorsese’s boxing biopic stars Robert De Niro in a powerhouse performance as Jake LaMotta. The decision to film Raging Bull in black and white enhances its emotional intensity and brings a classical elegance to its brutal fight scenes. It’s a personal and visually striking look at rage, fame, and redemption that lands a spot as one of the best black-and-white movies.
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9. Rebecca (1940)
Alfred Hitchcock’s adaptation of Daphne du Maurier’s gothic novel is rich with suspense and psychological complexity. Rebecca follows a young woman haunted by her husband’s deceased first wife. With dull cinematography and a foreboding atmosphere, the film showcases Hitchcock’s skill in building tension and unease through suggestion rather than spectacle.
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8. La Dolce Vita (1960)
Federico Fellini’s Italian masterpiece La Dolce Vita takes place in postwar Rome. The black-and-white visuals bring a certain magnificence and timelessness to the film’s dreamlike sequences and philosophical themes. Therefore, it’s a landmark of European cinema and a must-watch for fans of introspective storytelling.
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7. The Lighthouse (2019)
This modern entry proves that black-and-white cinema still holds power. The Lighthouse, directed by Robert Eggers, stars Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson as two lighthouse keepers descending into madness. Its high-contrast cinematography and imagery create a chilling, claustrophobic atmosphere. For that reason, it’s one of the best black-and-white movies in recent memory and a stand-out in psychological horror.
6. 12 Angry Men (1957)
Set almost entirely in one jury room, 12 Angry Men explores themes of justice, bias, and civic responsibility. Directed by Sidney Lumet, the film builds intense drama through dialogue and performance alone, featuring Henry Fonda and an ensemble cast. The distinct black-and-white visuals amplify the claustrophobia and moral pressure of the jury deliberation.
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5. Some Like It Hot (1959)
This classic comedy starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, and Jack Lemmon is both hilarious and progressive for its time. Some Like It Hot follows two musicians who disguise themselves as women to escape lawbreakers, resulting in a series of comical and romantic webs. Therefore, its witty script and strong performances make it one of the best black-and-white movies in the comedy genre.
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4. Schindler’s List (1993)
Although made in the 1990s, Steven Spielberg’s decision to shoot Schindler’s List in black and white gives the film a haunting, documentary-like realism. Based on a true story, it recounts how Oskar Schindler saved over a thousand Jews during the Holocaust. The use of grayscale emphasizes the film’s somber tone and moral gravity, making it an emotional yet essential watch.
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3. Psycho (1960)
Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho changed the face of horror cinema. Its suspenseful storytelling and chilling plot twists captivated both audiences and critics. Anthony Perkins’ portrayal of Norman Bates is eerie and unforgettable, and the infamous shower scene remains one of the most iconic moments in film. For that reason, this psychological thriller is a prime example of how black-and-white cinematography effectively enhances tension.
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2. Casablanca (1942)
Set during World War II, Casablanca is a romantic drama that captures the tension of love, sacrifice, and politics. Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman light up the screen with their legendary chemistry, and the film’s unforgettable dialogue and iconic score have made it a staple in film history. It’s a classic old-Hollywood romance that resonates just as strongly today.
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1. Citizen Kane (1941)
Often said as the best black-and-white movies ever made, Citizen Kane follows the rise and fall of newspaper entrepreneur Charles Foster Kane. Directed by and starring Orson Welles, this film developed techniques in cinematography, nonlinear storytelling, and sound design that revolutionized modern filmmaking. It’s a narrative that invites repeated viewings, especially for fans interested in how legacy, power, and identity are constructed.
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