3. "They Call Me Mister Tibbs" In The Heat Of The Night (1967)
In The Heat Of The Night (1967) deals with a variety of very serious topics, winning the Academy Award for Best Picture towards the end of the civil rights movement in America. These topics play a powerful undercurrent to a gripping and dramatic search for a murderer in a small southern town. Detective Virgil Tibbs is forced to help a prejudiced police chief find justice for the town; however, he finds his own character in the crosshairs, and is forced to find justice for himself as well. Virgil proves himself time and time again, gaining favour from the audience, but struggling to gain the respect of Chief Gillespie. Early in the film, Gillespie doesnt trust Virgils judgement as a detective, dismissing his statements and suggestions. When Virgils theories surrounding the murder begin to line up, however, Gillespie desperately turns to mocking other aspects of Virgils character. He mocks Virgils name, asking what everyone calls him in Philadelphia. In a booming voice, Vir... I mean Mr. Tibbs, asserts his authority, demanding the respect he deserves. This comeback line even became the title of the films sequel. The sequel follows the characteristics of blaxploitation, but it exploits this comeback line just as much. This line expertly deals with a very difficult topic; it gets to the point clearly and concisely.
I received my Bachelor's Degree in English Literature and Film Studies with Highest Honours at Carleton University. I've got an obsession with fiction that I'd love to share with the world; I hope you'll join me while I discuss the greatest or latest films and television shows. You can follow me on Twitter @AdaptedInAction to keep up with my articles.
