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A crime drama that many viewers consider one of the greatest films ever made is now available to watch on BBC. The black-and-white classic has a near-perfect Rotten Tomatoes score and is still praised for its writing, acting and style more than 80 years after it first appeared on screen.

Fans say the film stands out because of the way its story is told and how bold it was for its time. It has also become a favourite among crime-drama lovers because of its suspense, sharp dialogue and unforgettable performances. Some even argue that no modern thriller comes close.

The film has been called a masterpiece for decades, yet many people may not know it is now streaming for free.

The movie in question is Double Indemnity, the iconic 1944 noir based on James M. Cain's novel.

Reviews for the film remain glowing today. One person said: "This is one of the best films of all time, not necessarily because of its story but because of the acting, direction, cinematography, lighting, and just the way that the story itself was told."

Another wrote: "The best film adaptation of the brilliant James M. Cain novel ever made. A masterpiece that now happens to be the greatest classic.

"The smartly-written dialogue still snaps and crackles and the suspense has lost none of its edge in the 80-plus years since the film was made. This is as fine a thriller as you'll ever see and a film that truly deserves being called a classic."

A third said: "Double Indemnity is not only one of Wilder's best films, it is one of the greatest films of all time. Movies today don't come close."

Directed by Billy Wilder and based on Cain's 1936 serial novel, the film follows insurance salesman Walter Neff, played by Fred MacMurray, who becomes entangled in a murder plot with the calculating Phyllis Dietrichson, played by Barbara Stanwyck.

Their scheme quickly draws suspicion from claims manager Barton Keyes, famously portrayed by Edward G. Robinson.

The title of the movie refers to a life-insurance clause that pays out double when death occurs in unusual circumstances, the detail that drives the entire plot.

The film was nominated for seven Oscars and is widely seen as one of the defining works of film noir.

Over the years it has appeared on countless "greatest films" lists, been praised by critics around the world, and was selected for preservation in the US National Film Registry.

Double Indemnity is now streaming for free on BBC iPlayer with a valid TV licence.