There’s something hypnotic about black-and-white films. They strip away distractions, drawing us into the raw essence of a story. While many associate monochrome with the past, these five films prove that it remains a powerful artistic choice today. From war-torn nightmares to surreal folklore, each of these movies uses black and white to enhance its atmosphere, emotion, and storytelling. Let’s dive in.

1. The Painted Bird (Czequia, 2019) – A Descent into Darkness

An unflinching odyssey through the horrors of war, The Painted Bird is as brutal as it is mesmerizing. Shot in stark black and white, its aesthetic amplifies the bleakness of a young boy’s journey across an Eastern European hellscape. Every frame feels like a photograph from another era, forcing us to confront cruelty in its rawest form. Not for the faint of heart, this film is a grueling yet deeply artistic experience, capturing both the monstrous and the human with chilling precision.

2. There’s Still Tomorrow (Italy, 2023) – Feminine Strength in Shadows

This Italian drama blends nostalgia with biting social critique. Set in post-war Rome, it follows a woman caught between tradition and her yearning for freedom. The choice of black and white isn’t just a stylistic nod to classic Italian cinema; it’s a tool that sharpens the contrast between repression and resilience. Heart-wrenching yet empowering, the film resonates beyond its period setting, reminding us how much and how little has changed for women seeking their own path.

3. Embrace of the Serpent (Colombia, 2015) – A Hypnotic Journey into the Unknown

A haunting meditation on colonialism, Embrace of the Serpent transports us deep into the Amazon, where indigenous wisdom clashes with Western greed. Shot in luminous black and white, the film strips the jungle of its expected vibrancy, making it feel otherworldly—like a fading memory or a dream slipping away. Beyond its stunning visuals, it’s a deeply philosophical experience, questioning the price of knowledge and the ghosts left in the wake of exploration.

4. November (Estonia, 2017) – Folklore at its Most Bizarre

Magic, death, and mischief intertwine in this Estonian fever dream. November is a fairy tale, but one drenched in mud, mystery, and misfortune. Its monochrome cinematography accentuates its eerie atmosphere, making spirits and shape-shifters feel eerily tangible. It’s a film that revels in the absurd and the grotesque, where love and survival dance in a surreal, frostbitten world. A must-watch for those who love folklore served with a shot of the uncanny.

5. The Captain (Germany, 2017) – A Chilling Study of Power

Few films capture the terrifying fluidity of morality like The Captain. Set in the dying days of World War II, it follows a deserter who adopts the identity of a Nazi officer, discovering just how intoxicating power can be. The stark black-and-white cinematography intensifies the film’s nightmarish quality, blurring the lines between illusion and reality. It’s a harrowing character study that lingers long after the credits roll—a reminder of how quickly a man can become a monster.

Black and white cinema isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a storytelling choice that shapes emotion, perspective, and atmosphere. Whether exploring war, mythology, or personal rebellion, these films prove that stripping away color doesn’t mean losing impact. Have you seen any of these? What’s your favorite modern black-and-white film? 🎥✨