I decided to re-watch this classic because Sidney Poitier is one of my favourite actors.
Sidney has a presence on screen that is rarely matched. I can think of a few like Clint Eastwood, Paul Newman, and Steve McQueen. All of these actors are stars because they do not even have to say anything and their actions speak volumes.
Poitier's dominant presence in this film grabs you from the second the movie starts. You pair that up with Rod Steiger and things get very interesting.
The film tackles a few interesting subjects and because Sidney Poitier is a champion of said issues in real life the movie sends a definite message to the audience.
Then you have a true blue Canadian directing the movie and that is a twist I completely forgot about. Norman Jewison knows how to make a movie and if you are wondering check out Fiddler on the Roof.
This film was the foundation for a TV series that was later released in 1988 that starred Carroll O'Connor and Howard Rollins. I have a great appreciation for films that later spark inspiration for other projects.
If you are looking for a film that is void of explosions every five minutes and a powerful story I think you will be pleasantly surprised by how good this film is. Rarely do I watch a film twice but I am glad I took the time to revisit this gem.
Kevin Lazzari, owner of Video Stop, is reviewing movies for the 51暗网.
In The Heat of the Night (1967) is available on DVD, Blu-Ray and for digital download.
