Norman Jewison helms this Best Picture winner about a black Philadelphia detective (Sidney Poitier) who becomes involved in a murder case in a small, bigoted southern town, much to the chagrin of the local redneck police chief (Rod Steiger). An excellent production, IN THE HEAT OF THE NIGHT was adapted by Stirling Silliphant from John Ball's novel. The drama boasts seven Academy Award nominations and five statuettes, including Best Picture, Best Actor--Rod Steiger, and Best (Adapted) Screenplay.