New Nikon lenses on old Nikon film SLRs?

I'm fairly certain I already know the answer but I'm just looking for some confirmation. I know that using old manual focus lenses on Nikon DSLRs isn't recommended since they can't meter, but on the other hand, most new Nikon lenses will work fine on old film SLRs, correct? Will there be any performance differences / issues (not including autofocus capability for very old bodies)? And also, how would DX lenses perform on film SLRs - would FX lenses be the only viable option? I would be looking to get lenses that work well both on film and digital SLRs.

An aside, what would be a good, mechanical Nikon film SLR? Preferably metal-body and very durable.

Newer lenses can't be used on film cameras if they're the G version, which means that the aperture ring has been removed. Some recent slrs can use these lenses, but they make up a small selection of Nikon's film line. Most of these cameras, however, can be used with Nikon's D lenses. Those are generally the best for use on film and DX bodies. I suggest the 50mm f/1.8D for starters, which is very affordable.

DX lenses can't be used on film cameras. You'll get black corners. Only FX lenses can be used on film cameras.

For a Nikon Slr? Most have metal bodies, except for those manufactured in the 80's and early 90's. Look to an FM2/FM3 if you want something older (and cheaper), and also mechanical. Do your research. Before I was given a Minolta SLR, I was geared toward an FM2N, a mechanical SLR with metering and auto exposure.

My Nikon F4 can use any of the Nikkor AI, AI converted, AF, AF-I and AF-S lenses.

If I don't mind a little vignetting, I can use any of my DX lenses on it as well.

Actually you can meter using the older manual focus lenses if you have a Nikon dSLR that is not one of the entry level cameras. I use my manual focus lenses on my D300 and D3 quite a bit and the metering is no different than when use them on my F4

A DX lens will not cover the whole frame of film so the result would be a small picture with large dark fuzzy borders.