Contemporary black and white films always run the risk of being branded pretentious. Another reason to think about it when choosing this style is the rejection that the absence of colors causes in many viewers.
Despite the obstacles, the following films came out more than graceful. The reason is that do not use black white as an easy way to achieve higher artistic value. Plus, their beautiful stories make it worth the effort to give up color for a few hours.
The Artist
The more time passes, the more excessive seem the five awards that the Hollywood Academy gave, including the best film of the year, to this French silent film. However, that does not mean that it is not worth seeing. It is worth it, and a lot. It represents a different and very pleasant experience. And the use of black and white is fully justified.
Nebraska
A father and son take a road trip to claim a million dollar prize. However, that is only the excuse to bring issues such as old age and parenting relationships to the table. Black and white emphasizes the sadness inherent in the characters in this road movie full of absurd humor.
going
Winner of the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2015, 'Ida' transports us to Poland in the early 60s. Aesthetically and technically stunning, the story subtly approaches the wounds left by the German occupation in country. And it does so through a young novice named Anna (wonderfully performed by a totally amateur actress) who is about to take her vows. Hard, melancholic and very contained, without black and white it would not leave such an impression on the viewer. Few times a black and white film generated the need to see it again and again like 'Ida' does. Called to become a cult film.