In the Heat of the Night (1967) - Clip 1

A clip from In the Heat of the Night (1967).
(For use in a seminar on Sidney Poitier)

[@63mckenzie]

I've lost count of the number of times I've watched this scene. Two incredible actors at the height of their powers.

[@bobke114]

Lots of good acting there and very realistic to a degree if you grew up in that time...I lived it

[@strothermartin5368]

@@bobke114 You hear him,he pay for the call. 5:25

[@tommyl3207]

Same here. That might be 101 times for me for all I know.

[@sbolger5336]

OMG. I thought I was the only one to watch this scene a million times. It's just so satisfying.

[@MrRMT1986]

YEAH!! OOHHHH YEAHH!

[@ramleeoak9299]

Sidney and Rod raised the bar in this masterpiece. No matter how many times I watch it, the energy is just sensational - these guys were on another level.

[@kh-sg3rd]

For real

[@nofirstorlast8405]

Sidney said every day working with Rod was like a master class in acting.

[@robertquigley3596]

I think the only class in that act was Sidney Poitier. He should have got the economy award for that movie but you know what happens in the 60s. One of the greatest black actors of all time

[@austinmerrigan3404]

Your spot on their

[@Max-do7me]

@@robertquigley3596 Why not say he was a great actor, period.

[@jaygould2816]

Watching Rod turn chewing gum into a masterclass of acting never gets old. Two extraordinary talents.

[@JB-yb4wn]

When he drinks the Dr.Pepper to give the gum some sort of flavour.

[@gardenvape4021]

I know what you mean. Wonder how many sticks it took to get him thru the entire film?

[@user-fh1rg5rd5v]

Yeah right ▶️▶️▶️🎉 2:31

[@theo9952]

Indeed so. Even though he didn't like the chewing gum idea at first and objected to it.

[@user-pw9mp6uk1t]

Can't stop watching this no matter how many times i watch it, Rod Steiger and Sidney poitier are magnificent, God have mercy on both of them for all the good time they gave us in this short life.

[@obbor4]

What a year Sidney had in 1967; 'In The Heat of the Night', 'To Sir, With Love, and 'Guess Who's Coming to Diner.' Talk about a triple crown!

[@Laceykat66]

Very true, but please do not forget Lilies of the Field. He was a great character in that movie not just a name on the screen like you so often see today.

[@obbor4]

@campbellscollision Yes, he won best actor for his portrayal of Homer Smith (known to the nuns as "Schmidt" throughout the film) in 'Lillies of the Field' (1963.) He wasn't the first to win an Oscar though. Hattie McDaniel won best supporting actress for her work in the epic 'Gone With the Wind' (1939.)

[@brucewayne3602]

truly incredible

[@deborahjohnson3463]

Wow !!! This is still being done today. Nothing has changed since 1619. FACTS !!!!

[@matthewdunham1689]

Indeed

[@marionv.brittainiii7188]

The look on Chief Gillespie's face was out of this world when Mr. Tibbs announced that he is a police officer and even presented him the badge. I mean it was absolutely astounding.

[@henrykujawa4427]

And... just like in a live stage play... there's a long stretch of silence, to allow the audience to LAUGH THEIR HEADS OFF.

[@schusterlehrling]

It's called a surprise turning point. Instead of a criminal, he turns out to be a representative of the law. It could not be any worse for Chief Gillespie.

[@jerrysummers5971]

Earns more money lol

[@PikesvilleAl]

it is the money he makes

[@jerrysummers5971]

@@PikesvilleAl Big bucks at the time!

[@tonyb374]

'I'm not an expert......officer !' Instant respect from one cop to another. Masterpiece of a film !

[@mrb4886]

Bingo. :)

[@nothingtodo58]

As Sparta's new police chief, he knew keeping his job was dependent upon solving the murder of Sparta's most important citizen. He would do anything to solve it, even putting aside his prejudice.

[@mfreeman313]

The whole film is these two men slowly coming to respect, understand, and like one another, across a vast gulf. I have the utmost respect for Sidney Poitier, but Steiger's performance in it is so complex and nuanced that if we unnecessarily have to choose I would give the laurels to him. It's always difficult for him, always conflicted, but he overcomes it all and expresses the affection, at the end, that he's come to feel. Just wonderful.

[@freema9246]

I'm "seeing" it with new understanding as an adult. You will notice the progression from "boy" to "man" to "officer" during the course of this interaction.

[@ShadowSonic2]

@@mfreeman313 Well, he DID win an Oscar for this!

[@badvlad9861]

No special effects, no grandiose sets, no flash, no gala music or tons of actors. Just stellar actors and a dynamite script, PERFECTION.

[@user-jf2vb7hl7g]

need to go back to this type of effect of movie making , great movie and actors instead of unbelievable ways movies are made in todays times.

[@dunbustin]

What pleasure it must have been to have played one of these roles.

[@alyssaferaci1133]

@@user-jf2vb7hl7g english made movies seemed to not have forgotten how to make a good movie without all the glitz...just good writing and good acting

[@angelabolton4478]

This movie is still more watchable than 90% of what's been in theaters for the last 10 years.

[@brucewayne3602]

perhaps 99% ???

[@trysometruth]

B-b-b-b-b-b-b-but.... no one's wearing a cape!!

[@fiandrhi]

Let me tell you, 90% of the stuff back then was crap, too.

[@alerey4363]

same as current wonder woman vs Lynda Carter's

[@ubroberts5541]

For sure. It should be re- released in major theaters around the country. One of my favorite films of all time. Go Virgil Tibbs!!!!

[@jamesstuart3346]

I'll nominate Steiger's performance in this scene as the best ever in a film. Contempt, fear, bravado, helplessness, loneliness, all in 5 minutes. Plus the whole Southern racism thing. Never been topped, never will be.

[@WintersWar]

He really did. as for Portier, another angle introduced that you will never see today, when Tibb's own chief asks if he's prejudice.

[@angelabolton4478]

I rewatch this movie every few months. And every time, I just marvel at Steiger. He was brilliant.

[@kh-sg3rd]

I think Mississippi burning comes close

[@earlemorgan5068]

James Stuart I concur with your assessment of Steiger. His performance in "In The Heat of The Night" was spot on in all ways. Brilliant!

[@aspenrebel]

"Boy!".

[@BullToTheShit]

*"I'm a police officer"* That never gets old.

[@thomasglynn2282]

They call me Mr tibbs

[@Bretski126]

When I was 15, my dad took me to this film, in downtown lily white, Traverse City, Michigan. I never in my life realized that this was part of the American landscape. It was a wake up call for my young, naive view of the world. Nothing was innocent after this flick. Best film ever made, for so many cultural reasons.

[@timaustin2000]

What a scene. What a scene. Just imagining the amount of pride swallowing to do to ask for help at the end. The attempt, however weak, put aside decades of prejudice and admit that you need help. And THEN to see Sidney clearly doing the same arithmetic in his own head as he decides whether to step out that door. The weakness, the fear, the distrust, the loneliness, the desperation, the courage, the pride, the forced calm, the anger,... It's electric. Its a masterpiece. A total masterpiece.

[@kh-sg3rd]

Well put

[@harveyhankerson8359]

Right on brother… !! You’re definitely on point.. with that. Its like a punch in the gut.. 🥊🥊🥊

[@otrnam1]

Naw, it’s when the Sheriff says OFFICER. Mr. Poitier turns arounds and decides to help the investigation.

[@robertlavigne9828]

Yea and how would you think the white cop would fair and "feel" alone in the ghettos of Chicago or NY even? Same thing, different color.

[@jrkorman]

@@robertlavigne9828 Nope - still not even close!

[@steverose8436]

Sidney Poitier and Rod Steiger absolutely brilliant.

[@gregorypalmer5403]

Yes. Both. Equal. Not just Poitier's show . Steiger sadly is no longer with us but Poitier is and deserves extra praise in his lifetime for playing militants ,after these feel-good flicks of '67, but in real life has been a constructive not destructive force. Credit his Lithuanian-American wife Joanna Shimkus, the beauty in his , unknown but immortal " Last Man", '69? , for keeping him mellow ??!

[@delladog]

don't forget Warren Oates, he adds his style to the movie

[@ms.natashawomack2635]

Ie agree...

[@brydc0ck31]

Si. I agree.

[@johnmc3862]

Steiger was pure brilliance in this clip.

[@ngabushallday6642]

Warren Oates was such an undervalued presence on the big screen, one of my all time favorite actors.

[@samkohen4589]

He was great as Dillinger playing the main role

[@luatala8008]

The script writer must have had been teary eyes watching Sidney and Rod bring it to live in such amazing performances.

[@jeffreyball6618]

The script writer was the star

[@counter-weightmedias2263]

@@jeffreyball6618script writer adapted a novel lmao the novelist deserves some credit for creating the story and characters

[@viralbuthow000]

You said it! The author too

[@jeffrymellinger2807]

George C. Scott turned down the role of Gillespie. It was taken by Rod steiger and became his greatest role; he won the Academy Award for best actor. Two years later the role of Patton was offered to Rod Steiger. When he turned it down, it was given to George C. Scott; the greatest role of his career for which he won the Academy Award.

[@aspenrebel]

That's how Hollywood rolls.

[@alicel3992]

Wow, amazing how things work out sometimes

[@Boomer1156]

That's very interesting...big fan of steiger

[@markmurphy4667]

I didn't no that, but l was born, son of ingrapts, But we was Iru.sh...when the British police " if you was Irish Sue, ain't never gonna be awesome, article or areasted, no Sir, ....but the fu* kIn* British police did that to Us, just because we were Irish....So we will always be your Friends..... sorry, my Mam will probably be ashamed if she Knew l shouted at ya....x

[@prac2]

YEAHHHHH! OH YEAH!

[@cubstercubman6158]

In The Heat of the Night is a classic and one of the best movies ever made.

[@micky4fun]

Two film giants, two of America's greatest actors, face to face. You don't get any better than this!

[@kaboulscabal4816]

RIP Sidney ... he was magnificent in this scene.

[@freddysquirenaranjo4859]

Both Sid and Rod...... Great Film

[@jasonmatney8025]

R.I.P. Sidney Poitier, Rod Steiger & Warren Oates.

[@MrManfly]

@@freddysquirenaranjo4859 it is and it’s still in my top 5 of most favourite 60’s movies ever!

[@freddysquirenaranjo4859]

@@MrManfly likewise friend

[@CalebTrask]

Wait ... you mean that's not Samuel L. Jackson?

[@berniejacque4544]

Warren Oates is a great actor too. Played almost every kind of role. Nailed every part he ever played.

[@randyposs6281]

loved oates in stripes

[@seandoyle2983]

So true.

[@mikepastor.k6233]

Ok Frances!

[@tafnamtaf8909]

@@randyposs6281 sergeant Hulka "the Big Toe"!!

[@tafnamtaf8909]

@@mikepastor.k6233 I told you call me psycho!!

[@rosepiranian7596]

One of the most powerful 10 minutes in cinematography.

[@ppuh6tfrz646]

Powerful cinematography? OK.

[@gardenvape4021]

Here here

[@tamjacobite4758]

I am Scottish and I remember seeing this film and being shocked at it for it’s obvious content. But now I consider it to be a masterpiece. A classic. Steiger and Sir Pottier were masters of their art.

[@jackspry9736]

RIP and long live Rod Steiger (April 14, 1925 - July 9, 2002), aged 77 And RIP and long live Sidney Poitier (February 20, 1927 - January 6, 2022), aged 94 You both will always be remembered as legends.

[@ShadowSonic2]

Steiger was only 2 years older than Poitier in this?! Wow...

[@danwaldis4553]

I saw this film when it first was released. In all my film watching, I still consider this one of the finest films ever made. The whole tone of the film was so authentically "old South" (of course, the film was certainly created in the perfect time period as well). The chemistry between Steiger and Poitier was tremendous! The interaction could be FELT -- unlike what sometimes passes for acting now. In addition, unlike many present-day films, this cinematic gem did not have to rely on special effects. And finally, the music. Quincy Jones composed the sound track and Ray Charles sang the theme song -- it doesn't get better than that!

[@johnclinete6193]

And it's movies like this that kept me from crossing the Mason Dixon line forever! I'm from Philly and I was 29 in 1990 first time I was called a Yankee! Oh there was a fight! Wanna piss me off? Call me a Yankee! So don't tell no body........lol!

[@davidryley4162]

100% agree Dan

[@Gromit801]

Couldn’t have this great film, if it weren’t for the great book. All credit to John Ball.

[@danwaldis4553]

@@johnclinete6193 Nice! LOL!

[@iceblueeyes9455]

I to think its a masterpiece. You got a good ole southern police chief. That knows change is coming. And hes fine with it. But cant show it.

[@kirinrex]

The amazing thing about this movie is how the silences are as powerful as the words.

[@markfloors6988]

@Louise X Yes..and notice how Virgil is just staring (with police officer eyes) without blinking, truly great acting

[@markfloors6988]

@Louise X eeeexxxactly! Lol

[@markfloors6988]

@Louise X WARD!!! LOL

[@markfloors6988]

Louise X had a long day working today, just saw the clip..YEAH, OH YEAH!! Lol

[@jeffreyhamer3107]

More powerful.

[@user-py8xw5bk1s]

Rest In Peace Mr Tibbs: Sidney Poitier 😢

[@danwaldis4553]

And Rod Steiger. They were both so brilliant!

[@carl6352]

his two best was lillies of the field and being a teacher

[@shawns4468]

@@carl6352 To Sir With Love

[@evelyngallagher5893]

😢

[@skopas]

I recently bought this film on DVD. It's great flick, story, actor's, direction etc. It really caught the atmosphere of 60's. True classic

[@irishlamb4018]

Sidney should have gotten a Oscar for this.

[@jennifersman7990]

Michael Lambrecht Yes, but Sidney already had an Oscar by this time. Stieger had the more challenging role, he starts out a hardcore bigoted Sheriff and by the end he’s reached a new understanding but he’s very conflicted throughout

[@irishlamb4018]

@@jennifersman7990 no argument from me on that but Sidney should have gotten a Oscar also.

[@williamsmith752]

They gave it to Stieger....only one can win..

[@amina-pr8xt]

@@jennifersman7990 excellent analysis

[@lesnovara3560]

This scene is one of the greatest examples of acting I’ve ever seen. A perfect movie!

[@PapaEli-pz8ff]

A MASTER CLASS in the craft of Acting!

[@Trajan57]

Sidney Poitier was a Giant. One of the best actors of the last 60 years, regardless of race...

[@abrarahmed1888]

I’ve been watching this film on and off for over 40 years. My flatmate from back then and I still know every line off by heart so much so, that we used to turn the volume off and play each of the parts between us.

[@jatikalmanigault]

I have seen this movie 1,000 times. If it came on every night for the next 30 days, I would watch it every damn day.

[@bendavernas485]

A film that earned classic status that one never tires of watching again & again.

[@Teebone211]

One of my favorite movies

[@edwardstanley2195]

Today's movies can't compare.

[@trwashere5906]

It's probably on DVD :-)

[@splash5150izy]

Man You'd Near Be Able to Recite Every Line After a Thousand Or So View's Jatika Manigault :P] .. .

[@joshuabrooks4907]

What I find awesome about this movie is the fact that the two main actors, Rod Steiger and Sidney Poitier initially didn't get along, but after this movie was done, they remained friends for the rest of Steiger's life.

[@splash5150izy]

Narh! who said that? I read that Rod Steiger gave the actors involved in this movie many acting tips being such an experienced actor himself at the time

[@claytonpowell2985]

We lost a great one today... R I P Sir Sidney you will be greatly missed This is without argument one of the best films ever to hit the screen. In the Potier lineage it comes in second only to Buck and the Preacher.

[@danwaldis4553]

Yes we did lose a great one, and I teared up when I heard about it. Such an elegant and eloquent man. And by his example, he elevated humanity!

[@anthonygerard9938]

Don't forget No Way Out.

[@timkellyD2R]

Just this scene all by itself qualifies as one of the greatest ever put on film.

[@maryrobinson4463]

You ain't never lied! I'm gonna try to find Buck and the Preacher on DVD! Also The Defiant Ones too😊

[@fifthbusiness1678]

Buck and the Preacher? He made far better films than that (sorry).

[@FN_FAL_4_ever]

Rest In Peace, Sidney Poitier. What a sad loss to the cinematic world

[@jamesgill3319]

One of the best scenes in movie history, from two great actors! Sidney Poitier and Rod Steiger!

[@poetcomic1]

It all leads up to a moment that is the foundation of the entire fellowship between the leads: "Because I'm not an expert.....officer."

[@fieldthrasher]

Let's not forget Warren Oates.

[@anthonymason3854]

Amen. 💖💖💖❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@brianvittachi6869]

Still as powerful as ever. This movie does not age.

[@sheprekker9188]

Rest In Peace, Mr. Sidney Poitier. Legend. Rod Steiger too. This just might be the greatest movie of all time.

[@ppuh6tfrz646]

Let's not get carried away here.

[@mikegike7273]

Top 5.

[@andyjones7514]

My favorite movie of all time. With the exception of Brando no best actor in my lifetime was as good as Rod Steiger.

[@plausibleg.3170]

1967 Memphis Tennessee drive-in watched this with family. Never would have guessed I'd live this scene.

[@breebw]

Explain that please!

[@manweller1]

There is more acting here than in most current 2 hour films. A gem scene

[@keithnphx63]

Amen.

[@leeeastwood6368]

manweller, length is not important! most women will tell you that! or they tell me that anyway ;-(

[@Creek_Hunter]

The sad thing is that you are spot on!

[@FMHammyJ]

Acting today is simply pretty faces and CGI.....acting ability is secondary.....its how people like Ryan Gosling become top "actors"... ugh.

[@alcd6333]

Certainly. Both Poitier and Steiger (and Warren Oates and Lee Grant and others from the film) were all trained theatrical actors. The audience came to see them. Today, the audience wants to see special effects not the acting. The "actor" is just a pretty face who stands there while all the CGIs do the "work."

[@nyterpfan]

Two legendary actors at their best in a legendary film---not much else to say!!

[@kascally]

Three if you count Warren Oates. Small but vital part.

[@lamontburton1233]

To CascaKasca:I was going to mention Warren Oates till I saw your posting.He was also in another classic The Wild Bunch,excellent in the role in the Dillinger & showed his comedic chops in Stripes.He did a lot of film & TV work before in he passed away in 1982 at age 52 of a heart attack.

[@djtoona]

Please don't miss Two-Lane Blacktop and Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia. Oates is one of the of the overlooked gems of actors.

[@maxbrown9335]

Perfectly said without going beyond!

[@carlcanmore2658]

Sometimes a team effort is needed to make one of the best.

[@ronrichardson4805]

Possible one of the greatest films in the past 50 years ! The story line , the personal conflict, the setting . A story within a story. Magnificently done and the actors were at the peak of their craft. Still relevant to this day . Sadly, they don't make movies like this anymore.

[@mcelliot]

Sadly, it was not made in the last 50 years now ! 1967

[@ronrichardson4805]

@@mcelliot you are correct !

[@light279]

POSSIBLY???? Are you kidding? This is one of the GREATEST films ever made.....period.

[@nectafarious8842]

RIP Sidney; what a legacy you left. A magnificent actor.

[@kirsteni.russell5903]

The long silence after Poitier says, "I'm a police officer," gave the 1967 New York City audience time to laugh and applaud. This movie was a delight to watch for the first time with that audience!

[@Cl4rendon]

You sir are obviously talking out of your ass - Poitier might have not been in his hey days anymore in that specific era you are babbling about, but if you had a sense of acting art, you would know how he shined on movies like "Pressure Point" or "Lilies of the field" around the sixties long before a "Bruce Willis" or Julia Roberts set a foot in acting - You sound too foolish & bitter.

[@nyterpfan]

Agree 100%--I always thought Poitier was a hell of an actor--and he's at his best in this great film!!

[@johnfoster4244]

nyterpfan "I AM A POLICE OFFICER!"

[@donbrassco301]

Why would it give NYC something👈He played a cop from Philly👈

[@johnfoster4244]

@@donbrassco301 because of the way Virgil was being treated and talked down to to come back with that response would work in Toledo

[@paulhealy7690]

This is one of those movies that if you're flipping through the channels and come across, you're hooked until the end. Poitier and Steiger have such great chemistry. It's a joy watching their relationship develop.

[@sharonjensen3016]

I know. I wasn't even born when "In The Heat Of The Night" was released, but the first time I watched it, I loved it. It's held up well over the years. I can understand why audiences in cinemas would have been shocked by the slapping scene (Tibbs slapping a white bigot). Steiger and Poitier would go to screenings to gauge the reactions of black and white audience members. Apparently, blacks would cheer, while the response from whites was "Oh!"

[@elizabethrussell5099]

I know that's 😆

[@kensyskye8965]

It’s on tv tonight and on reading your comment along with some others I’m getting comfy….

[@timengineman2nd714]

@@sharonjensen3016 I heard a few: "Yup" from a mainly white audience.....

[@sharonjensen3016]

@@timengineman2nd714 I believe that.

[@ronbarnes687]

The look in the Chiefs eyes when seeing that badge was priceless, I grew up watching this movie and still love it today.

[@louise_rose]

Yep, they are magnificent both of them - also, the way they use pauses between their lines to build up tension and atmosphere. Sure, the deflated look of the Chief is great, but you also sense how tired he is as he moves behind his desk and drops into the chair...

[@smokestack29]

Sidney Portier, as of today, is no longer with us. RIP.

[@christennant8690]

I have seen this film countless times and I never get tired of watching it. Acting is so superb.

[@rediop4309]

Same here. I watched it 3 weeks ago and just watching this extract makes me want to watch it again tonight.

[@winniejohnson5559]

Chris Tennant it’s too much work.. I could only imagine what it was to be a black anything in this movie.. these policemen are so ignorantly racist.. but they would behave this way to anyone they perceive as different..that don’t fit their narrative .. they don’t even know how to be humble.. this guy is smarter and makes more money and they hate him even more because he ain’t one of them..they still think they are better..SO SAD!! in reality they are all just people.. nobody better or worse..

[@jpathak6227]

Never get tired of watching classics.

[@delladog]

Not again cries my wife!

[@aspenrebel]

Yeah sometimes when this movie pops on the TV on a Saturday afternoon, I go "Oops there goes the rest of the day".

[@perrymason151175]

That looong silence after he said he was a police officer; the ability of Steiger to convey shock, surprise, denial and acceptance all at the same time. You could see all the emotions in conflict; his old time prejudice fighting his instinctive loyalty and respect for a fellow officer finally resolving in his "I'm not an expert!!" acceptance of the man he sees. A black man; but a police officer. Brilliant acting; and of course, Poitier. No other words are necessary to describe him.

[@nakedhombre]

This scene still holds up today 55 years later. What an insight into the deep-seated racism existing in that era in that area. The look on Sydney Poitier‘s face is priceless. Seeing this makes me want to download the audio book.

[@laurie113]

Trump actually has managed to revive those Horrible days. Way to go America. Nothing has really Changed has it?

[@T_C242]

​@laurie113 Everythings always Trumps fault

[@Nephthys-ness]

​@@T_C242yeah, ur right, but we'll see after his 14ish Federal Felony cases wind up. Southern District of NY 1st, I think. Georgia & Fla have to wait. But, to say "everything" is premature. His CFO already pled out to all charges with the end of his cooperation being .... never : it might go fast. Still don't think it's everything though, imo

[@michaelareay1037]

RIP Sidney, he and the other actors made this film unmissable and unforgettable. The instant you started watching it you knew you were on to something special.

[@Rossion64]

I never tire of this masterpiece. And thats just what it is!

[@trysometruth]

Couldn't agree more. You just can't burn out on something this damn good. One of the very best.

[@BLUEsurf63]

Ross Ion Coyle agree a wonderful movie, brilliantly made and acted.

[@austinteutsch]

This movie did so much for the acceptance of us all than most other movies of the day.

[@quidnunc2436]

Absolutely spot on there, Ross.

[@razorbackfilms]

Ross Ion Coyle in 2013 I saw this film on the first and only time on the big screen at the ArcLight cinema at an event hosted by afi Sidney Poitier introduced the print.

[@goodchessactor]

Rod Steiger's laugh when he says "Virgil" is worth the price of admission.

[@rodneybarton-hall3867]

One of the most hypnotically brilliant scenes in cinema. Decades after first watching it, I still get goose-pimples.

[@daymanwhoa4893]

and here i am ignorant to all of this... I cant believe ive never seen this before...

[@killuminatii1]

The dullness of the office, the old office furniture, the wooden chair, the creaking noises, in the middle of the night and the heat, the good company of a chewing gum and bottle of coke... full of asmr

[@garypellerin5576]

For the record, it's' Dr. Pepper. Nit picking aside I also get how each element adds to this scene. Even the rolled-up sleeves of the Chief's shirt.

[@tonym2784]

I thought the same thing. This scene is hypnotic with an asmr vibe

[@carl6352]

Dr pepper

[@jimmyglen]

The chair creaks even before he sits in it ! But it is an amazing scene that you can’t turn away from!!

[@markfrank7207]

And the broken air conditioner... you can feel the humidity in the room

[@robertstv8045]

Love how Portier still counts the money. No trust. After that Steiger starts to gain his trust. Brilliant writing to go with acting. Brilliant

[@TheBatugan77]

Hell, I would! I'm white as Wonder Bread, but after being treated like that by cops that are as dumb as rocks... I wouldn't trust them with the weather report.

[@Chipchase780]

I don’t know about anyone else, but I was so drawn into this tense and brilliantly acted scene that I forgot where I was for a few minutes. Sidney Poitier conveyed so much in simply the way he was looking at Rod Steiger while he was being subjected to the expected assumptions and prejudice. Patient indignation, fury, confirmation of southern racist attitudes, and letting the man make a fool of himself before presenting his police id. All conveyed just in an expression. Brilliant.

[@lisafink98]

OMG, I loved this movie, fantastic acting.

[@improvbob33]

With these two do in the scene is just absolute poetry in motion. I could watch it for forever.

[@redsquirrel1086]

Sidney Poitier and Rod Steiger in the same scene. It doesn't get much better than that.

[@lasselippert3892]

And Warren Oates is just icing on the cake

[@brucewayne3602]

that duo is well beyond compare !!!

[@delladog]

@@lasselippert3892 Love Warren Oates in this movie

[@aspenrebel]

Bill Murray and Chevy Chase in the same scene.

[@crlguitar1]

There was a reason why this movie got the Oscar in 1968....Powerful acting was a major factor. They don't make films like this anymore in Hollywood.

[@aldofhister6859]

It wasn't the great acting America was turning the leftist remember you had other films about black and white relationships (Guess Who's Coming to Dinner Etc..) this is when socialism started rearing its ugly head !

[@stephenjoiner3738]

@Leo Plotter--Leftist? Why didn't Barry Goldwater win in 1964? Four years before this film won the Oscar.

[@hcrun]

"They don't make films like this anymore in Hollywood." They don't make them like this anymore anywhere.

[@michaelmckenzey9552]

When I was teaching social studies, I always showed this film. My students loved the movie even though it was made in 1967.

[@SEGoddard]

That's true but Green Book comes close.

[@AndyMatts44]

Love how much meaning he gets out of the simple "Yeah.... OH YEAH!!"

[@hughjass1044]

Not a word of exaggeration - I must have watched this movie 100 times - and every time, it gets better than before. Easily one of the best films ever made!

[@fernlow4235]

Agree, I don't think I will ever see another film like this one. I never watch films more than once. But I must have watch this film countless time.

[@franticstorm7411]

One film that shouldn't be remade under any circumstances.

[@jayvanslayer2787]

they did make a tv series of heat of nite, that was sloppy.

[@justplainbrad7713]

@@jayvanslayer2787 If it was sloppy...it must be very close blood kin to you. I'll bet you, or anyone else on earth, any amount of money, that there NEVER was a tv series called, "of heat of night".

[@jodavey]

Instead they made a tv show

[@Dabhach1]

They couldn't remake it. They'd be ratioed for hate speech.

[@andrewbevan4662]

Shia Lebouef and Kanye West

[@Pulsonar]

I cannot remember a tense scene in any film ever to match this one. These 2 legendary actors made a difficult scene during a real socially sensitive and disorderly time look so easy and electrifying. They truly represented the best that the golden age of Hollywood had to offer.

[@kh-sg3rd]

Considering today's garbage sex violence truly a masterpiece

[@poetcomic1]

The entire scene builds and builds to ONE phrase by Rod Steiger "....because I'm not an expert.....officer." That one word, 'officer' makes all that follows between these two men possible, funny that the sheriff makes the first move to bridge the racial divide between them.

[@jose.luis.ayala.]

@@poetcomic1 The gap WAS bridged because the Chief gave Virgil respect BOTH as a fellow officer & expert. As the story develops, Chief sees him as a MAN, only having been issued a different UNIFORM at birth.

[@jeffreyball6618]

Golden age of Hollywood was before the 60s.

[@runcible4755]

I don't care how much more famous "I'm a police officer" or "They call me Mr. Tibbs" are, my favorite line in the movie is Steiger's "Yeah. Oh, YEAH!" at Warren Oates when he shows him Tibbs' police ID. In that instant he is a whirlwind of emotion, and every one of them is felt in that simple line.

[@mrb4886]

agreed.

[@dwartfarquart9590]

Man! Just watching two of the very best actors ever to grace the screen gives me chills even after all these years and at least 20 viewings. Sidney Poitier and Rod Stiger had a chemistry rarely seen. It is the most vital part of this masterpiece, in my humble opinion.

[@tallaser]

There is so much acting going on in these old movies, it's mesmerizing. Every subtle movement and glare. There's a lot of this missing in modern cinema.

[@andredupuis5461]

tallaser Agreed

[@ginnymiller2448]

Agree 100%. There is an incredible amount of detail in this movie. Most modern movies move way too quickly to bother with that. They are mostly flair and action for an audience with a short attention span. This movie is for people who like to think.

[@wrlord]

Quite right. No one knows how to act today!

[@fredflintstone2958]

A lot? You mean....A LOT!!

[@Locktwiste72]

True. Every move, every sound, every tick propels the scene and the story. Not a single move is wasted. Even the silences inbetween can be louder than actual spoken words. Classic cinema, top notch acting from Sidney Poitier and Rod Steiger.

[@rodericklee8251]

So many emotions are traded in such a short time. This isn’t just acting at its best it’s film making at its best. Hands down 👍👍👍👍

[@AnnaLVajda]

Yeah it's tense.

[@oldgoat142]

This is one of my all-time favorite movies featuring two of my all-time favorite actors. The subtle changes in Gillespie over the course of the film were just phenomenal, and Tibbs more than held his own throughout it. A truly nuanced performance by both of them. Classic all the way around. Descanse en pas, Senor Poitier. Your performances across the board from this movie, To Sir, With Love, Guess Who's Coming To Dinner, and so many others were truly groundbreaking. The word legend gets tossed around far too easily but you have earned every letter of that word. The world is just a little bit dimmer now. You will be missed.

[@joeoak8181]

Couldn't agree more.

[@elforeigner3260]

Rod Steiger, Sidney Poitier and Warren Oates in the same scene cannot be more god level epic!

[@morristonian]

I knew Rod Steiger in the mid '80's ,even stayed in his house and held that Oscar in my hand( they're heavy). His wife at the time was my new wife's best friend.....never liked her but Rod was cool , however he was very depressed. Tremendous actor in an era of greats but this movie was one of the best!

[@Paulco67]

For real? I consider him easily top 10 actors of all time. His depth is nearly unmatched. Anthony Hopkins might be nearest to him in style. Did his chronic depression make it difficult for you to get to know him?

[@dougshankle7946]

This movie is incredible. These actors are simply amazing. Unbelievable.

[@edotoole]

Actually, they are very believable.

[@melvindaniels]

That was perfection at its BEST! Two fantastic actors squaring off, and both winning in the end. The plot was excellent, the scenery couldn't be better......E-X-C-E-L-L-E-N-T

[@stevenappleton7048]

One of the greatest pictures ever made. Pure perfection.

[@annemccarron2281]

So proud of Sidney Portier for refusing to perform in movies that did not present blacks in a positive light. He's a classic example of "You get what you ask for in life." My favorite actor of all times & my father's as well. The world is definitely a better place because of him.

[@emiliadimitrova9496]

This movie opened my eyes for Rod Staiger. Great actor. I had never heard about him before. US and western movies were not shown in East Europe at the time. I watch their classic movies decades after their creations.

[@scottmiller6495]

This scene alone gave two Oscars to this fantastic film, one to Rod Steiger for Best Actor and one for Best Picture of the year 1967, Sidney Poitier was fabulous in this picture and will be sorely missed !!!!!

[@JamesBond-uz2dm]

Sidney Poitier was in three pictures that were released in 1967, " To Sir, With Love " , " Guess Who's Coming to Dinner " and " In the Heat of the Night". He was sensational in all three films.

[@jeffreyball6618]

@Joseph Brennan no miracle year

[@mrb4886]

@@jeffreyball6618 FU. Last name Bresnahan. You are not Irish.

[@jeffreyball6618]

@@mrb4886 i never claimed to be irish

[@francisblake1549]

Sidney was worthy of winning the Academy Award for anyone of the three roles he played in 1967.It was an upset he didn’t win one.

[@Purple1984Rain]

Brilliant scene written by the great Stirling Silliphant. No surprise he won the Oscar for this classic film. Poitier & Steiger are in top form and nobody has ever worked chewing gum better on screen than Gillespie does throughout the movie.

[@lancebaker1374]

"What train?" "Tuesdays only, 4:05 to Memphis." Then we hear the train whistle. Just the beginning of Virgil Tibbs pushing Gillespie back a few steps.

[@sturmfront5490]

Alright no need to repeat the scene. We know.

[@F_Tim1961]

@@sturmfront5490 Nah man, w'all got NO IDEA. :-)

[@KarlSchneidertube]

This is an absolutely riveting scene - beautifully written and fabulously acted by Poitier and Steiger. The dialogue is spot-on, but there is so much more happening above and beyond the words spoken. I never tire of watching it.

[@christennant8690]

Seen this movie about 20 times and could watch it 20 more. It is that good.

[@gustavgrun1980]

Rod Steiger, what a brilliant actor!

[@gorillachilla]

Don't forget the black guy white lover

[@rutles4everdudleycooper441]

@@gorillachilla Why bring colour into it?

[@lifelongbachelor3651]

@@rutles4everdudleycooper441 inferiority complexes will do that...

[@andrewhinds6302]

What happened to Sidney poitier. You can't see him.

[@aspenrebel]

Still, probably the sleaziest Sheriff was Ned Beatty playing Sheriff J. C. Connors, opposite Burt Reynolds, in "White Lightening".

[@martindavies1012]

Probably the best scene ever in Cinema History......! The sparks just fly off of these two!

[@jasonmassengill7865]

My favorite classic movie of all time. I never get tired of watching it. Just awesome performances by Sidney and Rod.

[@lucianapennelli8514]

I'll never get tired of watching this scene.Two great actors and a spendid performance

[@viralbuthow000]

Sidney and Rod were the Denzel and Gene Hackman of their day. Sheer brilliance

[@moesyzslak2939]

What are you doing wearing white mans clothes 😄

[@hiawathaclemons]

OUTSTANDING COMPARISON

[@MrRogerSherman]

Denzel only plays the angry black man. Sidney could do comedy. Denzel doesn't have any range.

[@jamesalexander5623]

@@MrRogerSherman 1993 "Much Ado About Nothing" ! .... No Range? .... "The Preacher's Wife"!

[@winniejohnson5559]

MrRogerSherman Denzel wasn’t and isn’t angry in all of his roles.. you obviously aren’t very familiar with his career..

[@kinkettepec8821]

Remarkable stuff - the racial counter play is so well done. No one insults anyone but the insults are there.

[@Lildoc911]

​@voiceisclear Yeah, being called boy is a go to for them type.

[@trysometruth]

@voiceisclear Calling a black man "boy" in 1967 (or for that matter 1867) wasn't exactly uplifting then, either.

[@edwardcochran5060]

Calling a grown man a "boy", is something I'd consider an insult, peroid!

[@edwardcochran5060]

Not just in the year 2020, at any place, at any time!

[@brucewayne3602]

beyond brilliant --- again !!!

[@MilePost106]

I have watched this 3 times and never gets old. Great movie!

[@restlessforacurevids]

This scene should be shown in every acting class. Steiger touching the rifle when he says he’s running a clean town, Poitier dropping the bag after he’s asked how he killed a man, Steiger not looking at the door when someone knocks and opens, and sipping the Dr. Pepper right before before raising his voice, every single movement has a reason.

[@stanmillable]

sipping a Dr. Pepper

[@randyposs6281]

diablo sandwich and a dr.pepper

[@johnnyreb3542]

@@stanmillable..Everything’s a Coke in the south..

[@yoloswaggins1579]

So much going on in this scene without stupid music, overacting and crazy camera work.

[@buddyglynn6173]

Exactly!!! No need for the obnoxious distractions to keep our attention.

[@jpathak6227]

They were movie actors and they didn’t need loud music in the background.

[@gerwinnus]

I wanna be in this movie. And I don't mean play in it, but to BE in it.

[@drlobomalo]

"stupid music, overacting and crazy camera work" Sounds like "High Noon."

[@hilti503]

Tension and the feeling. Daaamn... acting on aaaawsome.

[@mikeace5831]

I just watched this movie. It never gets old I can watch it again and again total classic

[@bawjawsheehaws7747]

Have seen this movie more than once since its release in my humble opinion this is not only one of the best films in American cinema but one of the best scenes in world cinema .r.i.p Sidney ya handsome bastard and a great actor

[@simonmadi1177]

At the end of the movie Virgil earns the chiefs respect. Not only as a fellow officer, but also as a man.

[@johnnycop77]

Now you just spoiled the whole movie for me thanks a lot.

[@anonUK]

@@johnnycop77 The film has been out since 1967. If it came out before 2010 or so, you don't need a spoiler warning.

[@DANIELMABUSE]

Its strange that Virgil, obviously a more admirable character than the racist police chief, has to earn the chief's respect and not the other way around.

[@aethionr4478]

@@DANIELMABUSE 'Murikkka

[@sinkingdragon]

@@DANIELMABUSE the police chief wasn't racist...he was a bit of a bigot, not racist. If he was, he wouldn't have wired the captain, and definitely would not have asked for help, much less admitted he wasn't an expert, or called him officer. By doing that, he was admitting virgil was an equal, and a more than capable policeman...

[@Crazymike1975]

Sidney Poitier, Rod Steiger and Warren Oates bring magnificent performances in their films. RIP Rod Steiger and Warren Oates.

[@garyivarson7540]

AMEN … AMEN ….. and AAAAaaaaaAAAAMEN ! ! !

[@piero539]

No matter how many times, every occasion is good to see again this duet in action!

[@fernlow4235]

I have watched this film so many times. One of the best films, ever made. The actors are brilliant too.

[@stranraerwal]

Roder Steiger is brilliant-but don't forget: Sidney Poitier is brilliant too !!!

[@alforliniteaching5670]

Steiger,was wrongly cast ,and he was struggling to hold character . He was not believable in this role .

[@chrissyman77]

@@alforliniteaching5670 Don't agree, I thought he was brilliant.

[@alforliniteaching5670]

@@chrissyman77 He is a good actor ,no doubt , but he was too small .

[@razorbackfilms]

I saw the original listing in daily variety announcing the production. It announced Marlon Brando as the lead. Does anyone know why Brando left?

[@tomcooper9938]

@@alforliniteaching5670 * He fit the mold for a southern police chief. Very believable. Unlike Carroll O'Connor. Of course, the TV show couldn't have the same character.