While traveling in the Deep South, Virgil Tibbs (Sidney Poitier), a black Philadelphian homicide detective, becomes unwittingly embroiled in the murder investigation of a prominent businessman. Finding the killer, however, proves difficult when his efforts are constantly thwarted by the bigoted town sheriff (Rod Steiger). But neither man can solve this case alone. Putting aside their differences and prejudices, they join forces in a desperate race...

Sidney Poitier and Rod Steiger (who won a Best Actor Oscar® for his performance) shine in this classic mystery-thriller that took home five Academy Awards®, including Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay. Lee Grant and Warren Oates also star.