The Impact of Black and White Noir on Contemporary Film

The artistic decision to shoot a contemporary film in black and white is a complex one that requires careful consideration. When executed correctly, the absence of color can enhance and enrich the visual storytelling, making for a more impactful cinematic experience. This article highlights recent films that would greatly benefit from a black and white noir aesthetic.

Black and White Noir as a Creative Choice

The creative choice to film a contemporary movie in black and white is not a simple decision. While a poorly executed choice might seem like a cheap attempt to add dramatic effect, when done well, black and white can significantly enrich a film. The lack of color in a film can transform it into a timewarp, making it feel like it fits its era. By removing the common element of color, directors can force viewers to take a new perspective, narrowing attention to elements such as cinematography, acting performances, and set design. Additionally, black and white reduces the visual field to just light and dark, allowing light to play a much more significant role in the scenes.

Recent Films That Thrive in Black and White

The Tragedy of Macbeth (2021)

Directed by Joel Coen and set in a time-agnostic world, The Tragedy of Macbeth employs a black and white aesthetic to great effect. This choice creates an ethereal realm that separates the film from any concrete setting, making it feel closer to the original source material, William Shakespeare's Macbeth. This creative decision is not only a stylistic choice but also aligns with the film's mood and atmosphere. The result is a visually stunning and haunting production.

The Lighthouse (2019)

Another contemporary example is The Lighthouse, directed by Robert Eggers. This film not only employs black and white but also features an unusual aspect ratio that further immerses the viewer. The decision to use black and white in conjunction with Eggers' vivid storytelling and cinematography creates a unique and impactful viewing experience. The focus on light and shadow rather than color highlights the performance abilities of Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson.

The Last Duel (2021)

The Last Duel, directed by Ridley Scott, already has a relatively dark aesthetic, and the transition to black and white would not be an overwhelming change in visual composition. The story, set in the 14th century, would benefit greatly from this style. The combination of a dark setting and the absence of color enhances the film's already intense and dramatic tone. The simplicity of light and dark can amplify the emotions and tensions present in the narrative, making it resonate more deeply with the audience.

The Batman (2022)

Although The Batman's new take on Gotham is colorful and bustling, an alternate black and white version could provide a unique distinction from previous iterations. The artistic director, Matt Reeves, has already demonstrated his ability to influence a film's aesthetic. Revisiting the character in black and white would add a layer of grit and texture that could make the film more grounded and realistic. This shift would preserve the gritty style of the character while providing a fresh, film-noir approach.

The Power of the Dog (2021)

The Power of the Dog, directed by Jane Campion, is a dramatic western film that relies heavily on strong acting performances and dialogue. The film’s black and white format could heighten the dramatic impact of the performances, drawing more focus onto the actors and their interactions. The choice to strip the film of color would emphasize the thematic elements of the story, making it more of an immersive and stylized experience.

Mass (2021)

Mass, a film that centers on the emotional and psychological dynamics of two families, could greatly benefit from a black and white aesthetic. The dialogue-driven narrative would shine more brightly with such a format, allowing the powerful performances of actors like Jason Isaacs, Martha Plimpton, and Ann Dowd to stand out even more starkly. The concentration on dialogue in a black and white film helps to engage the audience with the narrative and emotional depth of the characters.

Parasite (2019)

Parasite, a 2019 Best Picture winner, already stands out for its unique and engaging storytelling. While the film's raw, vibrant colors are a testament to its visual prowess, a black and white adaptation could also be compelling. The stark contrast between the wealthy household and the family's humble living conditions would be heightened, enhancing the film's dramatic tension and social commentary. Bong Joon-ho's use of light and dark already creates significant distinctions, and the black and white format can further amplify this effect, providing a richer, more layered viewing experience.

Kimi (2022)

Kimi, a contemporary crime thriller directed by Steven Soderbergh, is filled with vibrant and evocative colors that help ground the viewer in the modern era. However, a black and white adaptation could offer a unique angle for this genre. The absence of color would force the audience to pay more attention to the dialogue and story, aligning the film's visual style with its modern crime thriller setting. This transformation would add new layers to the narrative and make the film's exploration of identity and deception more poignant.

These films demonstrate the versatility and power of black and white noir as a cinematic technique. By stripping away colors and relying on light and shadow, filmmakers can enhance the emotional and narrative depth of their stories, creating a more immersive and impactful viewing experience for the audience.