Novel methods of forming films on metal or metal alloys are provided. These methods comprise the formation of a metal oxide (e.g., manganese oxide) conversion coating on the metal or metal alloy. The metal-oxide coated metal or metal alloy is then submerged in a mini-emulsion comprising the components (e.g., polymers, oligomers, and/or monomers) to be formed into a film or coating on the metal or metal alloy. The metal ions generated by the metal oxide coating will cause the components to coagulate and deposit on the metal or metal alloy.