B-movie facts for kids

A B-movie is a type of movie that is usually made with a small budget. These films often feature actors who are not very famous. In the past, B-movies were shown as the second film in a "double-bill" at the cinema, meaning you got two movies for the price of one!

Some actors, like Bela Lugosi, became well-known for appearing in many B-movies. Even though they were low-budget, many B-movies are now considered very good. For example, the film Detour (1945) is now seen as one of the best film noir movies ever made.

What are B-Movies?

B-movies are films made with less money than big Hollywood blockbusters. This means they often have simpler sets, fewer special effects, and less famous actors. They were a way for movie studios to offer more entertainment without spending a lot.

The History of B-Movies

In the early days of cinema, especially from the 1930s to the 1950s, going to the movies was a huge event. Cinemas would often show two movies back-to-back. The main movie was the "A-picture," which had a big budget and famous stars. The second movie was the "B-picture," or B-movie.

Why were they made?

B-movies were a good way for studios to:

• Keep audiences in their seats longer.
• Give new directors and actors a chance to work.
• Experiment with different stories and genres.
• Make a quick profit with less risk.

B-Movies Today

Even though double-bills are rare now, the idea of a B-movie still exists. Many independent films or direct-to-video movies can be thought of as modern B-movies. They are often made outside the big studio system.

From "Bad" to "Good"

Many B-movies were not expected to be masterpieces. However, over time, some have become very popular and respected. Films like Detour and Blood Simple are examples of B-movies that are now praised by film critics and fans. Some are even seen as classics!

Creative Freedom

Because B-movies have smaller budgets, filmmakers sometimes have more freedom to be creative. They can try out unusual ideas or styles that big studios might not risk. This has led to many unique and interesting films. For example, the science fiction film Primer (2004) was made for only $7,000 but won awards for its clever story.

Images for kids

• 

  The "King of the Bs", Roger Corman, produced and directed The Raven (1963). It starred Vincent Price and a young Jack Nicholson.

• 

  That Certain Thing (1928) was made for less than $20,000.

• 

  Republic Pictures' Pals of the Saddle (1938) starring Wayne was only 55 minutes long.

• 

  Rocketship X-M (1950) was one of the first movies about a world after a nuclear disaster.

• 

  The famous poster for Jaws, a big-budget film that still promised exciting thrills.

• 

  The film Blood Simple (1984) was made with a $1.5 million budget and became a Sundance winner.

• 

  Shane Carruth made the award-winning science fiction film Primer (2004) for only $7,000.

• 

  Ed Wood's Plan 9 from Outer Space (1959) is often called "the worst film ever made."

See also

In Spanish: Cine B para niños