"In the Heat of the Night" is a 1967 film directed by Norman Jewison. It follows a black detective, Virgil Tibbs, played by Sidney Poitier, who becomes involved in a murder investigation in a racially tense Southern town. He teams up with the local white police chief, Bill Gillespie, portrayed by Rod Steiger, to solve the crime while confronting deep-seated racism. The film is notable for its exploration of race relations in America during the 1960s. It won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and is recognized for its powerful performances and social commentary, making it a significant work in American cinema.