When it comes to movies, Netflix is a one-stop shop. But there are a ton of genres and subgenres to choose from, so figuring out what is the best Netflix movie to watch can be difficult. Check out this article for 10 great Netflix movies black and white that you will love!
Netflix offers a wide selection of movies and TV shows to choose from. You can find almost anything on Netflix, including movie originals you cannot find anywhere else.
There are a lot of great movies on Netflix, but sometimes you just want to watch something classic in black and white.
If that is what you are in the mood for, check out this list of the best Netflix movies black and white.
Table of contents
Best Black and White Netflix Movies to Watch
Just because a movie is in black and white does not mean it is not worth watching! Some of the best movies on Netflix are in black and white.
From classics like “Twelve O’Clock High” to more recent releases like “Passing”, there is something for everyone on this list.
There are a lot of great Netflix Movies Black and White available on Netflix. Here are some of the best ones to watch.
#1. Mank
- Year: 2020
- Director: David Fincher
- Stars: Gary Oldman, Amanda Seyfried, Lily Collins, Arliss Howard, Tom Pelphrey, Charles Dance.
- Genre: Biography
- Duration: 2h 12m
Mank is a new movie about the life of screenwriter Herman J. Mankiewicz, best known for his work on Citizen Kane. The film is one of the best Netflix movies black and white and has been getting a lot of buzzes, so I was curious to see what all the fuss was about.
The film is visually stunning, and director David Fincher has done an amazing job bringing 1930s Hollywood to life. If you are a fan of old movies or just want to see a great film, I highly recommend checking out Mank.
The film received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised Oldman’s performance and Fincher’s direction, while others criticized the film’s length and pacing. Regardless, the film was a commercial success, grossing over $32 million against its $70 million budget.
The new David Fincher film Mank is a masterful ode to Hollywood’s Golden Age. The film tells the story of screenwriter Herman J. Mankiewicz, who was hired to write the screenplay for Citizen Kane.
Mankiewicz was a talented but troubled man, chronicling his struggles in this film.
Fincher’s direction is impeccable, and the acting is top-notch. Gary Oldman gives an Oscar-worthy performance as Mankiewicz, and the rest of the cast is equally impressive. The film’s biggest strength is its writing.
Aaron Sorkin’s script is smart, witty, and insightful. It captures the essence of Hollywood in the 1930s and 40s.
Mank is a must-see for any fan of classic cinema. It is a tribute to one of Hollywood’s greatest screenwriters, and it is a brilliant film in its own right.
Read Also: 10 Best Youtube Channels For Education
#2. Passing
- Year: 2021
- Director: Rebecca Hall
- Stars: Tessa Thompson, Ruth Negga, Andre Holland, Bill Camp, Gbenga Akinnagbe, Antoinette, Crowe-Legacy, Alexander Skarsgård.
- Genre: Drama
- Duration: 1h 38m
If you are looking for a thought-provoking and moving film, I highly recommend Passing. It is a beautiful and powerful examination of race, identity, and relationships. The movie is one of the best Netflix movies black and white I have seen so far.
Although it is set in the 1920s, the film’s themes are as relevant today. The story follows two women who pass as white – one whose race is ambiguous and one who is black. As their friendship deepens, they must grapple with the devastating consequences of their choices.
If you are looking for a great movie or looking for one of the best Netflix movies black and white to watch, be sure to check out Passing! This film tells the story of two women who meet and form a deep bond, although they are both married to other people.
The acting is top-notch, and the film’s exploration of love and friendship will resonate with viewers. I highly recommend Passing – it is one of the best Netflix movies black and white I have seen in recent years.
#3. Twelve O’Clock High
- Year: 1949
- Director: Henry King
- Stars: Gregory Peck, Hugh Marlowe, Gary Merrill, Millard Mitchell, Dean Jagger, Robert Arthur, Paul Stewart, Paul Kellogg, Robert Patten.
- Genre: War/Drama
- Duration: 2h 12m
Twelve O’Clock High is a 1949 American war film about the United States Air Force during World War II, starring Gregory Peck and featuring Hugh Marlowe, and Robert Ryan. The film was directed by Henry King and written by Sy Bartlett, Henry King, and Beirne Lay, Jr. from Bartlett’s story.
It was nominated for four Academy Awards and won two, including Best Actor for Peck. It is one of the best Netflix movies black and white to watch if you are a fan of war movies.
The storyline of Twelve O’Clock High follows the experiences of Colonel Joe Gallagher (played by Gregory Peck) as he assumes command of an underperforming bomber squadron stationed in England. He faces challenges from apathy among his troops and hostility from his superior officer, Brigadier General Michael J. Finn (played by Hugh Marlowe).
Although it is sometimes criticized for its portrayal of military life. Twelve O’Clock High is considered one of the best films about World War II. It is certainly a classic of the war genre
If you are a fan of war movies or simply looking for one of the best Netflix movies black and white to watch, “Twelve O’Clock High” comes highly recommended. It is an intense, exciting, and thought-provoking film that will leave a lasting impression.
READ ALSO: 10 Best Movies for Netflix & chill
#4. Metropolis
- Year: 1927
- Director: Fritz Lang
- Stars: Alfred Abel, Brigitte Helm, Gustav Frohlich, Rudolf Klein-Rogge
- Genre: Drama
- Duration: 2h 3m
Metropolis is a film that tries to convey a movie for the mind. With most of the dialogue written in classical poetry, it is hard to imagine how director Fritz Lang meant this hyperbolic sadness and rise in revolution to be viewed as positive until you experience it for yourself.
Regarding mind-bending cinematic experiences, few films can top Fritz Lang’s Metropolis. This classic science fiction film is a true masterpiece, and its influence can still be felt in modern cinema.
Metropolis is set in a future city where the rich and powerful live in opulence, while the workers toil away in the underground depths. The workers are controlled by a giant supercomputer, Mabuse, and they have no hope of escaping their dreary existence.
That is until one man, Freder, decides to take action. He falls in love with a girl from the upper class, Maria, and together they plan to overthrow Mabuse and free the workers from their slavery.
However, Mabuse is not about to give up without a fight. He unleashes his powers against Freder and Maria, leading to a spectacular showdown.
Metropolis is one of the best Netflix movies black and white that is sure to leave your mind reeling. It is a must-see for fans of science fiction or cinema.
If you are looking for a visually stunning, thought-provoking film that will leave you with plenty to discuss afterward, then Metropolis is definitely worth watching. Although it may be a bit slow for some viewers, the spectacular visuals and multi-layered story make it a truly unique and unforgettable film.
Read Also: 10 Best Youtube Channels for Learning English easily
#5. Sunset Boulevard
- Year: 1950
- Director: Billy Wilder.
- Stars: William Holden, Gloria Swanson, Erich von Stroheim, Nancy Olson, Fred Clark, Lloyd Gough, Jack Webb.
- Genre: Drama
- Duration: 1h 50m
This movie is one of the best Netflix movies black and white that is highly recommended. Is a story about Norma Desmond. It starts with her being too old to act on Sunset Boulevard.
So she learns about a new project her once former home studio where she has Hollywood power and will. For the film’s first half, it is apparent that Norma’s delusions have cracked entirely from reality. She talks about how she stars in films when no one else knows her and talks like she owns this mansion.
There is an Audition scene that shows how far gone Norma had become. Then enters Joe Gillis; an opportunistic young writer wannabe who found his way into this mad world. This film explores many themes and kinds of media, old representations of gender, etc.
What makes Sunset Boulevard one of the best Netflix movies black and white is its unapologetic look at the seedy underbelly of Hollywood. The film pulls no punches in its portrayal of the ruthless business of show business.
And the lengths that people will go to maintain their fame and fortune.
If you are a fan of classic cinema, then you owe it to yourself to watch Sunset Boulevard.
#6. The Apartment
- Year: 1960
- Director: Billy Wilder
- Stars: Jack Lemmon, Shirley MacLaine, Fred McMurray, Ray Walston, Edie Adams.
- Genre: Comedy/Drama
- Duration: 2h 5m
The Apartment is one of the lesser-known films by Billy Wilder, a director renowned for his comedies such as Some Like it Hot and The Lost Weekend. Released in 1960 the film stars Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine and is set during the Great Depression.
Apart from being one of the best Netflix movies black and white, the Apartment is also an erotic tale, The Apartment is the movie for you. This classic film, directed by Billy Wilder, is one of the best Netflix movies black and white that tells the story of Jerry (played by Jack Lemmon).
A young man becomes entangled in an affair with his boss’s wife, Mrs. Robinson.
Jerry begins to fall for Mrs. Robinson’s daughter, Elaine, and the two begin a relationship. However, things turn when Jerry finds out that Mrs. Robinson is also having an affair with another man.
The Apartment is a sexy and suspenseful film that will keep you on the edge of your seat. This is the movie for you if you are looking for a classic erotic tale.
#7. The Lady Vanishes
- -Year: 1938
- -Director: Alfred Hitchcock
- -Stars: Margaret Lockwood, Michael Redgrave, Paul Lukas, Dame May Whitty.
- -Genre: Mystery & thriller
- -Duration: 1h 27m
This movie is one of the best Netflix movies black and white that you must like to watch.
You are a lady traveler stranded in an unknown European city. You have lost your identity papers, so you cannot prove who you are to the people around you.
Should you play the role of your cut-throat look-a-like? Does follow-up lead on Nazi spies? Gasp at former lover’s dubious motives? Check out The Lady Vanishes on Netflix now!
The Lady Vanishes is a 1938 Hitchcock classic that has stood the test of time for over 75 years and continues to captivate new audiences. It is one of the best Netflix movies black and white of all time. Hitchcock doesn’t do a plot recap in his opening credits, but he gives us just enough detail to know we are in for a freaky ride.
Jean Peters as Iris Carr travels by train to meet up at Rathmell’s countryside home with a group of friends from World War I, only to find her alone in an empty house with no one around.
Is a classic mystery thriller that will keep you guessing until the end. It stars Margaret Lockwood as a young woman traveling on a train when she notices that her elderly companion has suddenly vanished.
She begins to search for her, but no one on the train seems to remember her. As the mystery deepens, Margaret becomes convinced that something sinister is happening.
The acting in The Lady Vanishes is top-notch, with Margaret Lockwood giving a particularly memorable performance. The script is also well-written, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. The film’s ending is especially satisfying.
It is surely one of the best Netflix movies black and white to watch. Highly recommended!
READ ALSO: 15 Best Website To Watch Movies In Theaters For Free In 2022
#8. Nebraska
- Year: 2013
- Director: Alexander Payne
- Stars: Margaret Lockwood, Michael Redgrave, Paul Lukas, Dame May Whitty.
- Genre: Drama
- Duration: 1h 54
Directed by Alexander Payne and written by Bob Nelson. Nebraska follows aging, (Bruce Dern) who is given one last chance at redemption. Will he take the shot?
It is a road trip movie about an older man named Woody Grant (Dern) who is determined to walk from Montana to Nebraska to claim a million-dollar sweepstakes prize that he is convinced he is won.
Woody’s son David (Will Forte) reluctantly agrees to drive him on the long journey.
And along the way they make several stops to visit family and old friends. The film is a moving portrait of aging, small-town America, and Dern gives an amazing performance as the cantankerous but lovable Woody.
Nebraska is probably not for you if you are looking for a feel-good movie. But this film is worth checking out if you are in the mood for a thought-provoking drama with great acting or for one of the best Netflix movies black and white.
Read Also: How to Make Your Life More Exciting | Best 17 Ways
#9. High Noon
- Year: 1952
- Director: Fred Zinnemann
- Stars: Gary Cooper, Thomas Mitchell, Lloyd Bridges, Katy Jurado, Grace Kelly Otto Kruger, Lon Chaney, Henry Morgan.
- Genre: Western
- Duration: 1h 25m
High Noon is a 1952 American western film made in a CinemaScope format. Gary Cooper stars as Marshal Will Kane, who defends a Kansas town against the threat of outlaw Frank Miller. When Kane’s Deputy turns out to be a decoy, Kane sets out on his own to face Miller and his gang
High Noon is a great western movie that tells the story of a sheriff who has to face a criminal in a duel. The movie is full of action and suspense, and it is one of the best westerns ever made. The story is simple but very effective, and it is sure to keep you entertained from start to finish.
The movie was regarded as one of the best Netflix movies black and white that offers the harsh reality of life in the west.
When it comes to westerns, most people think of big open spaces and dusty old towns. High Noon does have those elements, but what sets it apart is the level of detail in the visuals. Every scene is perfectly composed, with each shot painting a picture of the old west.
The colors are muted and the scenery is gritty, making it feel like you are right there in the middle.
Even if you are not a fan of westerns, High Noon is worth watching for the visuals alone. It is a beautiful film that captures the harsh reality of life in the west.
High Noon is a great Western movie that will entertain viewers of all ages. It has a simple plot that is easy to follow, and the acting by Gary Cooper is top-notch. If you are looking for a classic Western movie, I highly recommend High Noon.
#10. Bicycle Thieves
- Year: 1948
- Director: Vittorio De Sica
- Stars: Lamberto Maggiorani, Enzo Staiola, Lianella Carell.
- Genre: Drama
- Duration: 1h 30m
In 1948, director Vittorio De Sica brought his award-winning story, “Bicycle Thieves” to the big screen. It is one of the best Netflix movies black and white in 1948 Set in Italy during World War II. This film is about a father and son who live by selling the parts of old bicycles.
One morning, their bike is stolen and the duo sets out around their neighborhood and to neighboring towns in search of it, encountering hardships along the way.
The film is a beautifully shot portrait of post-war Italy, and De Sica’s direction is nominated for an Academy Award. The performances are excellent, especially by Lamberto Maggiorani as Antonio.
The film’s tragic ending will leave you heartbroken, but it is ultimately a powerful and moving experience. Highly recommended!
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed our list of the best Netflix movies black and white to watch. From classics to modern films, there is something for everyone on this list. So curl up with a blanket and some popcorn, and get ready to experience some of the best cinema offers.
Frequently Asked Questions
5 Best Black movies and shows on Netflix includes:
Self Made
The Last Dance
Voices of Fire
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
Miles Davis: Birth of the Cool
The 5 Black good family movies to watch are:
Sister, sister
Family Reunion
Spiderman into the Spider-Verse
Free Rein
The Karate Kid
You can watch Netflix on your smartphone, tablet, Smart TV, laptop, or streaming device, all for one fixed monthly fee. Plans range from US$9.99 to US$19.99 a month. No extra costs, no contracts.
Mank
Passing
Twelve O’Clock High
Metropolis
Sunset Boulevard
The Apartment
The Lady Vanishes
Nebraska
High Noon
Bicycle Thieves
References
- www.bestmoviesbyfarr.com – 12 of the Best Black and White Movies Streaming on Netflix
- Thecinemaholic.com – 10 Best Black and White Movies on Netflix Right Now
Recommendation
