The 10 Best Black and White Films of the Modern Era

Black and white films carry a unique charm, pulling us into a world where light and shadow tell the story. Even in an age dominated by vibrant color, some directors choose monochrome to craft a distinct mood or pay homage to cinema’s roots.

Since the 1970s, when color became the standard, a few bold filmmakers have kept the black and white aesthetic alive, using it to evoke nostalgia, heighten emotion, or make a striking artistic statement. Here are my picks for the 10 best black and white films of the modern era, each a testament to the enduring power of this classic style.

10. ‘The Artist’ (2011)

This silent film captures the magic of Hollywood’s early days. Directed by Michel Hazanavicius, it follows George Valentin, a silent movie star struggling with the rise of talkies.

Jean Dujardin shines as Valentin, his expressive face carrying the story without words. The black and white visuals, paired with a lively score, make this a joyful nod to cinema’s past, winning five Oscars, including Best Picture.

9. ‘Frances Ha’ (2012)

Noah Baumbach’s ‘Frances Ha’ is a love letter to youth and ambition. It tracks Frances, a 27-year-old dancer navigating life and love in New York City.

Greta Gerwig’s performance is raw and charming, perfectly matching the film’s loose, French New Wave-inspired style. The black and white cinematography gives it a timeless, dreamy feel, making everyday moments feel profound.

8. ‘The White Ribbon’ (2009)

Michael Haneke’s unsettling drama explores a German village before World War I, where strange events hint at rising darkness. The stark visuals amplify the eerie tone.

Shot in crisp monochrome, the film feels cold and distant, mirroring the community’s hidden cruelty. It’s a slow burn, but its haunting imagery and moral weight linger long after the credits roll.

7. ‘Good Night, and Good Luck’ (2005)

George Clooney directs and stars in this sharp look at journalist Edward R. Murrow’s battle against Senator Joseph McCarthy. Set in the 1950s, it feels like a time capsule.

The black and white palette blends seamlessly with historical footage, creating a cohesive, authentic vibe. David Strathairn’s intense performance as Murrow drives this gripping tale of truth versus power.

6. ‘The Man Who Wasn’t There’ (2001)

The Coen Brothers’ neo-noir follows Ed Crane, a quiet barber caught in a web of blackmail and betrayal. Billy Bob Thornton’s understated performance anchors the story.

Shot in rich, shadowy monochrome, the film channels classic film noir with a modern twist. Its moody visuals and dry humor make it a standout in the Coens’ diverse catalog.

5. ‘Mank’ (2020)

David Fincher’s ‘Mank’ dives into the creation of ‘Citizen Kane,’ focusing on screenwriter Herman J. Mankiewicz. Gary Oldman delivers a magnetic performance as the troubled writer.

The black and white cinematography mirrors 1930s Hollywood, with crisp contrasts and textured visuals. It’s a layered tribute to filmmaking, blending wit, drama, and historical insight.

4. ‘The Lighthouse’ (2019)

Robert Eggers’ psychological horror traps two lighthouse keepers, played by Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson, in a descent into madness. The claustrophobic setting is unforgettable.

Filmed in stark black and white with a boxy aspect ratio, it feels like a lost artifact from another era. The visuals amplify the surreal, unsettling atmosphere, making every frame a work of art.

3. ‘Roma’ (2018)

Alfonso Cuarón’s deeply personal film follows Cleo, a maid in 1970s Mexico City, through love, loss, and family. Yalitza Aparicio’s performance is heartbreakingly real.

The lush black and white cinematography, shot by Cuarón himself, turns everyday life into poetry. Each scene feels like a memory, vivid yet soft, earning it multiple Oscars, including Best Cinematography.

2. ‘Raging Bull’ (1980)

Martin Scorsese’s brutal biopic of boxer Jake LaMotta, played by Robert De Niro, is a raw study of rage and redemption. De Niro’s Oscar-winning performance is legendary.

The black and white visuals, chosen to echo old boxing broadcasts, add grit and intensity to every punch. The film’s stark beauty and emotional depth make it a towering achievement.

1. ‘Schindler’s List’ (1993)

Steven Spielberg’s masterpiece tells the story of Oskar Schindler, who saved over 1,000 Jews during the Holocaust. Liam Neeson’s powerful performance carries the film.

Shot in haunting black and white, it mirrors historical footage, grounding the horror in stark reality. Its emotional weight and flawless craftsmanship make it a timeless, unforgettable work.

Which modern black and white film resonates with you most, or is there a gem I missed? Share your thoughts in the comments!