Before technicolor changed the scope of motion pictures today, black and white movies were the norm. Nowadays, black and white films have been used as an artistic style to enhance the grim tone, the biographical ambiance, or contrasting visuals. The effect is astonishing as it adds depth to the story, and many modern black and white films, like Roma, have won awards.

RELATED: 10 Best Recent Black & White Films, Ranked According To Rotten Tomatoes

This year, many movies were filmed in black and white, which shows that the monochrome style is still prevalent as a part of the creative process. Each film took advantage of this aesthetic, and the powerful essence of black and white is why almost all these films received high remarks in 2021.

Malcolm & Marie - 56%

Malcolm hugging Marie in Malcolm & Marie.

Malcolm & Marie follows the titular characters as they explore the merits of their relationship after returning from a world premiere of Malcolm's film, based on Marie's struggles. They argue over a single night, but will their relationship survive?

As one of the few movies with fewer than five cast members, Sam Levinson's Malcolm & Marie exclusively centers on the dynamic between the titular characters. Unfortunately, the story of a toxic relationship did not bode well with some critics and the audience, who found it too exhausting with pretentious jargon. However, the movie is carried by the powerhouse performances of Zendaya and John David Washington, who make a watch worthwhile.

The French Dispatch - 74%

Benicio del Toro in The French Dispatch

Wes Anderson returns with his latest anthology film, The French Dispatch. Following Arthur Howitzer Jr.'s death, the titular newspaper publishes its final edition by revisiting stories from previous publications.

RELATED: 10 Best Movies Like The French Dispatch

This comedy-drama serves as a love letter to journalism. Unlike other films in this entry, The French Dispatch is not exclusively shot in black and white. Instead, the monochrome parts are featured in flashback scenes as the newspaper narrates each story. Unfortunately, some critics and casual moviegoers found the narrative confusing and incoherent. While many people believe that this is not Anderson's best film, Anderson's whimsical style is apparent throughout, which diehard fans will enjoy.

Belfast - 86%

Pa, Pop, & Buddy walk down a street in Belfast.

In Belfast, a working-class family watches tumult unfold in their country's capital and must make tough decisions along the way. The focus is on a young boy who must quickly grow up quickly as the days pass.

The influence of this coming-of-age story comes from director Kenneth Branagh's childhood, so the black and white aesthetic fit well with the narrative. The film discusses the chaos in the capital while enlivening its story with joy and humor. For sure, Belfast was one of the most remarkable films of the year, of which Branagh crafts his most personal yet heartwarming narrative, leaving a crowd-pleasing experience. Ranking as one of Branagh's best films, Belfast has become one of the stronger award contenders, already collecting 11 nominations for the upcoming Golden Globes.

Passing - 90%

Ruth Negga and Tessa Thompson walk down the street in Passing.

Rebecca Hall's Passing showcases a story about two Black friends who couldn't be any more different. During the racial segregation and prejudice of the 1920s, one of the friends poses as a white woman to fit into society through a process called "passing."

The black and white color scheme works to enhance the historical setting of 1920s New York. Rebecca Hall delivers in her directorial debut, capturing the essence of the themes of race and struggles of one's true identity while showing the contrasting prospect with the monochrome aesthetics. Furthermore, Tessa Thompson (in one of her best roles) and Ruth Negga share dynamic chemistry in the film, which earned the latter a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

The Tragedy Of Macbeth - 94%

Denzel Washington and Frances McDormand in a still for the upcoming The Tragedy Of Macbeth

William Shakespeare's Macbeth is one of the most famous plays adapted in modern movies today, with the latest being Joel Coen's The Tragedy of Macbeth. The story follows Lord Macbeth, who learns from witches that he will be the next king. With support from Lady Macbeth, they conspire to fulfill the prophecy.

RELATED: 10 Riveting Dramas To Watch Before Joel Coen's The Tragedy Of Macbeth

Critics are astonished by the production value and execution of this Shakespearean tale. Everything about it is meticulous, from the cinematography to the grim story. This historical thriller is filmed in black and white, enhancing the mysterious and powerful effects and visuals to intensify the narrative. Of course, the performances from the cast are outstanding, especially Denzel Washington, who has already earned Oscar buzz for Best Actor. The film was released in limited theaters but will be available to the public on January 14 on AppleTV+.

C'mon C'mon - 94%

Joaquin Phoenix in C'mon C'mon

C'mon C'mon follows a radio journalist who forms a special bond with his nephew, Jesse. They travel together across the country, during which time their relationship grows stronger.

This drama is a modern black and white film that showcases the incredible chemistry between Joaquin Phoenix (in one of his best films) and Woody Norman as the uncle and nephew duo. Of course, it presents an insight into a child's mind in a complicated world through exploration. In addition to the remarkable performance by the two leading stars, critics also commended the film for its cinematography, moving story, and visual aesthetics.

Gunda - 97%

A sow and her piglet in Gunda

Unlike the rest of the entry, Gunda is an experimental documentary that follows the perspective of a pig, chickens, and cows. It journeys through these animals' routine life, presenting to the audience what life is like for these farm animals.

While black and white cinematography is not uncommon for documentaries, Gunda shows a beautiful insight into nature and does so without any dialogue. It calls for an empathetic experience by watching these animals live their lives and it is meditative and captivating to watch. Of course, the black and white cinematography enhances the beauty of this film, as it captures the true essence of nature.

NEXT: Roma & 9 Other Moden Black-And-White Masterpieces