In the Heat of the Night

This mystery drama centers detective Virgil Tibbs’ (Sidney Poitier) journey to investigate a murder of a wealthy businessman in the deep South. Along the way, he clashes with the white police chief, racist murder suspects, and townspeople. With the film’s release coinciding with nationwide Civil rights protests, the slap heard around the world, and the legendary “They call me Mr. Tibbs!” line have echoed in the hearts of those who believe in a brighter future for Black people in film.