Modern Films
Once upon a time, movies were made in black and white because that was the only option available to film makers.When color movies first appeared, the colors were quite bright and unrealistic, and many film makers felt this did not suit the tone of a serious movie. Color movies were also more expensive to make than black and white ones, so for a while, the only movies made in color were big hollywood musicals and comedies. Gradually though, color film became more realistic and less expensive. It also became more popular with cinema-goers. By around 1970 then, almost all major releases were in color. This means that a black and white movie made after, say, 1970, has probably been made that way for artistic reasons. Often this means that the subject matter and the tone are very dark. Two such modern black and white movies in particular regularly appear in critics' top ten lists, namely Raging Bull (a biopic of the boxer Jake LaMotta) and Schindler's List (the true story of a man's attempt to save his Jewish employees from the Nazis). Both of these movies are quite harrowing, and difficult to watch in places, but both are masterpieces. Elephant man (the true story of a deformed young man living in Victorian London) is another great film, but again, quite upsetting to watch. Sometimes though, the movie was made in black and white in order to invoke feelings of nostalgia. Movies such as the excellent Paper Moon, and the hilarious Ed Wood, are set in the early 20th century, the "black and white era". We are not going to discuss modern black and white movies in depth on this site - we prefer to focus on classic old movies. However, if you would like to see a list of all the b&w movies made after 1970, click here. If you would like to create a review yourself for a modern black and white movie, use the form below. Tell us your RecommendationTell us about your favourite modern black and white movie, and why you would recommend it. What Other Visitors Have SaidClick below to see contributions from other visitors to this page...
The Man Who Wasn't There
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