IN THE HEAT OF THE NIGHT (Released to Theaters USA 1967)

 

Ben Meyers’ Rating: 4.2|5.0 Starsìììì  In the Heat of the Night—great writing—stretches high-wire tension from its beginning scene to its concluding scene. Don't miss this movie. It earns classic status and completely entertains with its exceptional portrayal of life in a small Mississippi town. It deserves its place in the home video library.  Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images Storyline  A Mississippi town policeman, Sam Wood (Warren Oates), unknowingly arrests a Philadelphia homicide detective and then, accuses him of committing homicide in a small Mississippi town during the night. Additional Thanks  Thank you to Director Norman Jewison for directing effort. Thank you to Producer Walter Mirisch for making the film possible. Cast includes Sidney Poitier, Rod Steiger, Warren Oates, and Lee Grant. Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?  Yes. This is a really good watch. Read a Wikipedia plotline if the last scenes are not quite clear for connection. The Sidney Poitier and Rod Steiger casting choice is perfect. Video Critique Available Here: Ben Meyers

LILIES OF THE FIELD (Released to Theaters USA 1963)

 

Ben Meyers’ Rating: 4.3|5.0 Starsìììì  Lilies of the Field—simple, poignant—shows in black and white and backs itself with a well-written story. It accesses the talents of Sidney Poitier who adds quality and sophistication to the film.    Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images Storyline Homer Smith unknowingly stops at a convent in the Arizona desert for water for his car and reluctantly gets caught in an obligation to help the nuns build a chapel.   Additional Thanks  Thank you to Director Ralph Nelson for directing effort. Thank you to Producer Ralph Nelson for making the film possible. Cast includes Lilia Skala and Sidney Poitier.  Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?  Yes. This is a great watch for Sidney Poitier fans. Lovable story. Video Critique Available Here: Ben Meyers

THE SIMPLE LIFE OF NOAH DEARBORN (Released to Television USA 1999)

 

Ben Meyers’ Rating: 3.9|5.0 Starsììì The Simple Life of Noah Dearborn—common theme, unique story—has a peaceful, settling aura throughout. The portrayal has a sense of goodness. It's a suitable to okay movie that relies on the formidable acting skill of Sidney Portier. The movie peaks interest and earns its watch.  Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images Storyline  A carpenter is offered a large monetary sum for his farm. When he says no, various means are used to force the sale. Additional Thanks  Thank you to Director Gregg Champion for directing effort. Thank you to Producer Trimark Pictures and CBS for making the film possible. Cast includes Sidney Poitier, Mary-Louise Parker, Dianne Wiest, and George Newbern. Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?  Yes. This film has goodness written into it. Video Critique Available Here: Ben Meyers