I dream in black and white. I’ve always assumed this was because I grew up watching black and white TV. Occasionally my black and white dream contains one item in color—a more recent cinematic effect that my dreaming has likely emulated.
A couple of times an entire dream scene is blasted with vibrant, blinding color. It comes as such a surprise that I instantly wake-up.
Since I dream in black and white and grew up watching television in black and white, it shouldn’t be surprising that I enjoy black and white movies.
(And for the record, I’m not a purest and I don’t object to the colorization of black and white films. A good movie is a good movie, regardless.)
In selecting older movies, I first consider those that are heralded as classics.
I also give consideration to the classic films that Netflix suggests, based on my ratings that I’ve given to other films.
A third reason why I will opt to partake in cinematic nostalgia is the people associated with a picture.
As far as directors, I opt for Alfred Hitchcock: North by Northwest, Vertigo, To Catch a Thief, and Rear Window are particular favorites.
Not surprisingly, the main actors in these films also capture my attention. For the males, it’s Jimmy Stewart and Carey Grant.
On the female side, it’s Grace Kelly, along with Myrna Loy, Barbara Stanwyck, and Audrey Hepburn. Often I gravitate to anything that includes one of these four ladies.
Several years ago, I was again watching “To Catch a Thief” (a triple bonus: directed by Hitchcock and starring Cary Grant and Grace Kelly).
There is a scene with Grace Kelly wearing a stunning white gown and adorned by a sparkling array of diamonds encircling her neck.
Just then, my son walked into the room. “What are you watching?” he asked. I provided more information about this classic tale than he wanted to hear.
I then gushed about Grace Kelly and concluded by saying, “Isn’t she incredible?”
He stood silently for several moments, shook his head, and said, “I just don’t get it.”
How could he get a black and white movie? He probably dreams in color.
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Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront status quo religion and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.
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