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Best Sidney Poitier Movies
11th Nov 2025
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Few actors have embodied dignity, grace, and unwavering strength on screen quite like Sidney Poitier. His groundbreaking career shattered racial barriers and redefined what was possible for Black actors in Hollywood. From his early starring roles to his later directing ventures, Poitier consistently delivered captivating performances that resonated with audiences of all backgrounds. This list celebrates the best of his work, showcasing the enduring power of his talent and the significance of his cinematic contributions. Explore this curated selection of Sidney Poitier's most memorable films! We've put together a fantastic list, but we know everyone has their personal favorites. Use the drag-and-drop feature to reorder the movies based on your own preferences and create your definitive ranking. Share your unique perspective on the cinematic legacy of this legendary performer!
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#5.
A Piece of the Action (1977)
5/9
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In the 1977 crime comedy "A Piece of the Action," seasoned retired detective Joshua Burke, portrayed with gravitas by James Earl Jones, faces a unique challenge: how to steer two notorious career criminals, Manny Durrell (Sidney Poitier) and Dave Anderson (Bill Cosby), towards a life of honest work. Burke's ingenious, albeit manipulative, plan involves leveraging his intimate knowledge of their checkered past to blackmail them into an unexpected form of rehabilitation. He cons them into volunteering their services to help juvenile delinquents, the very individuals they might have once preyed upon, turn over a new leaf. This premise sets the stage for a battle of wits and wills, as two sharp minds are forced to confront their own histories and find a path toward redemption, albeit under duress. Sidney Poitier's inclusion of "A Piece of the Action" in a list of his best films is a testament to his versatility and his commitment to portraying complex characters. While Poitier is celebrated for his powerful dramatic roles and his pioneering work in dramas that explored racial injustice, "A Piece of the Action" showcases his exceptional talent for comedic timing and his ability to imbue even a reluctant anti-hero with charm and depth. His dynamic chemistry with co-star Bill Cosby, a comedic powerhouse in his own right, is a significant draw, and their performances are elevated by Poitier's nuanced portrayal of Manny Durrell, a man caught between his criminal instincts and the unexpected opportunity for betterment. The film offers a refreshing departure from some of his more somber roles, demonstrating Poitier's range and proving that he could effortlessly command the screen in a lighter, yet still insightful, narrative.
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Stir Crazy (1980)
#11.0*Stir Crazy* (1980) offers a classic fish-out-of-water comedy that sees Skip Donahue (Gene Wilder) and Harry Monroe (Richard Pryor), two unemployed New Yorkers, desperately seeking opportunity. Their ill-fated attempt to find work leads them to a bizarre gig as "woodpeckers" promoting a bank opening. However, their feathered costumes take center stage in a far more sinister way when they are stolen and used in a bank robbery, inadvertently framing the duo for the crime. This hilarious misunderstanding quickly lands them in prison, where their misadventures only escalate. While Sidney Poitier is not in *Stir Crazy* as an actor, the film stands as a testament to his groundbreaking work as a director. Poitier's directorial debut, *Buck and the Preacher* (1972), paved the way for him to helm other successful comedies and dramas, and *Stir Crazy* is arguably his most commercially successful directorial effort. It showcases his keen understanding of comedic timing and the ability to blend humor with social commentary, a hallmark of his directorial style. The film's success also reinforced his commitment to expanding Black representation in Hollywood, both in front of and behind the camera, making it a significant entry in the legacy of his influential filmography.
Let's Do It Again (1975)
#22.0In the vibrant, funk-infused romp "Let's Do It Again" (1975), Sidney Poitier not only stars but also directs this energetic comedy. He portrays Billy Foster, a charismatic blue-collar worker in Atlanta, who, alongside his friend Clyde Williams (played by the legendary Bill Cosby), finds themselves in a precarious situation. They've pledged to raise funds for their beloved fraternal order, the Brothers and Sisters of Shaka, but their ambitious fundraising scheme takes an unexpected detour. Their plan involves a trip to the legendary city of New Orleans, where they intend to discreetly rig a boxing match to secure the much-needed cash. This film earns its place on a list of Sidney Poitier's best for several reasons. While Poitier is renowned for his serious and impactful dramatic roles, "Let's Do It Again" showcases his remarkable versatility and undeniable comedic talent. He effortlessly embodies the charming and resourceful Billy Foster, proving his ability to deliver laughter with the same grace and depth he brought to his more profound characters. Furthermore, the film's exploration of camaraderie, community, and the lengths to which people will go for their beliefs, even through slightly unorthodox means, resonates with the themes of social consciousness often present in Poitier's filmography. His presence, both in front of and behind the camera, imbues "Let's Do It Again" with a warmth and a smart sense of humor that makes it a delightful and enduring entry in his illustrious career.
Uptown Saturday Night (1974)
#33.0"Uptown Saturday Night" is a rollicking 1974 comedy that showcases the irresistible chemistry between Sidney Poitier and Bill Cosby, who star as down-on-his-luck Steve and his well-meaning but often hapless friend Wardell. Their quest for a good time at a swanky nightclub quickly devolves into a chaotic and hilarious chase when Steve's wallet, containing a priceless winning lottery ticket, is stolen amidst a robbery. This misadventure, directed by Poitier himself, sees the duo navigating the underbelly of the city in a desperate attempt to reclaim their fortune, leading to a series of escalating predicmas and laugh-out-loud moments. This film undeniably earns its place on a list of Sidney Poitier's best movies not just for its comedic brilliance, but also for what it represents in his directorial and acting career. While Poitier is renowned for his powerful dramatic roles, "Uptown Saturday Night" demonstrates his impressive range and ability to excel in the comedy genre, proving his versatility as an artist. Furthermore, his directorial hand guides the film with a keen sense of pacing and character, allowing the comedic talents of Cosby, and the iconic supporting performances from Harry Belafonte and Richard Pryor, to shine. The film’s enduring popularity and its ability to still entertain audiences decades later cement its status as a classic Sidney Poitier film that highlights his comedic sensibilities and his impactful presence both in front of and behind the camera.
Buck and the Preacher (1972)
#44.0In the thrilling Western "Buck and the Preacher" (1972), Sidney Poitier not only stars as the stoic wagon master Buck but also makes his directorial debut with this gritty and engaging film. Poitier delivers a powerful performance as he guides a group of freed slaves westward, their arduous journey constantly threatened by ruthless agents seeking to exploit them for cheap labor. Alongside Harry Belafonte's charismatic and quick-witted preacher, Buck must confront violent adversaries and internal strife as they fight for freedom and a new beginning on the untamed frontier. "Buck and the Preacher" absolutely belongs on any list of the best Sidney Poitier movies for several key reasons. Poitier's masterful performance showcases his signature blend of quiet strength, moral conviction, and understated intensity. Furthermore, his directorial vision injects a unique perspective into the Western genre, offering a vital portrayal of the Black experience in the post-Civil War West that was rarely seen at the time. The film's compelling narrative, its exploration of themes like survival, faith, and resilience, and Poitier's foundational role in bringing such a story to life solidify its status as a significant and essential entry in his esteemed filmography.
A Piece of the Action (1977)
#55.0In the 1977 crime comedy "A Piece of the Action," seasoned retired detective Joshua Burke, portrayed with gravitas by James Earl Jones, faces a unique challenge: how to steer two notorious career criminals, Manny Durrell (Sidney Poitier) and Dave Anderson (Bill Cosby), towards a life of honest work. Burke's ingenious, albeit manipulative, plan involves leveraging his intimate knowledge of their checkered past to blackmail them into an unexpected form of rehabilitation. He cons them into volunteering their services to help juvenile delinquents, the very individuals they might have once preyed upon, turn over a new leaf. This premise sets the stage for a battle of wits and wills, as two sharp minds are forced to confront their own histories and find a path toward redemption, albeit under duress. Sidney Poitier's inclusion of "A Piece of the Action" in a list of his best films is a testament to his versatility and his commitment to portraying complex characters. While Poitier is celebrated for his powerful dramatic roles and his pioneering work in dramas that explored racial injustice, "A Piece of the Action" showcases his exceptional talent for comedic timing and his ability to imbue even a reluctant anti-hero with charm and depth. His dynamic chemistry with co-star Bill Cosby, a comedic powerhouse in his own right, is a significant draw, and their performances are elevated by Poitier's nuanced portrayal of Manny Durrell, a man caught between his criminal instincts and the unexpected opportunity for betterment. The film offers a refreshing departure from some of his more somber roles, demonstrating Poitier's range and proving that he could effortlessly command the screen in a lighter, yet still insightful, narrative.
A Warm December (1973)
#66.0"A Warm December" (1973) offers a compelling romantic drama that showcases Sidney Poitier's nuanced performance as Dr. Matt Younger. A devoted widower, Dr. Younger embarks on a trip to London with his daughter, intending to indulge in the thrill of dirt-bike racing. However, his plans take an unexpected turn when he encounters Catherine, an enigmatic and captivating woman. As a tentative romance blossoms between them, Dr. Younger finds himself drawn to her charm, unaware of the shadowy figures who seem to be lurking in her past and posing a threat to their burgeoning connection. Sidney Poitier's inclusion in the "Best Sidney Poitier Movies" list is well-deserved with "A Warm December" for several key reasons. Beyond his directorial efforts, Poitier consistently brought depth and gravitas to his roles, and as Dr. Matt Younger, he portrays a man navigating both personal loss and the unexpected joys of new love with quiet strength and vulnerability. The film further highlights his talent for selecting projects that explore complex relationships and societal nuances, often infusing them with a sense of dignity and thoughtful consideration. This particular film, with its blend of romance and suspense, allows Poitier to embody a character facing both personal fulfillment and external danger, demonstrating his enduring ability to connect with audiences through compelling storytelling and authentic character portrayals.
Hanky Panky (1982)
#77.0While the description provided is for the 1982 film "Hanky Panky" starring Michael J. Fox, the "Best Sidney Poitier Movies" list likely refers to a different film. The description for "Hanky Panky" (1982) accurately portrays a classic Hitchcockian thriller scenario where an ordinary person is thrust into extraordinary danger. Michael J. Fox plays an innocent caught in a deadly conspiracy involving espionage and murder, becoming a fugitive from the law. The film’s narrative centers on mistaken identity, a chase, and uncovering a larger plot, elements that often make for engaging cinematic experiences. However, Sidney Poitier's inclusion on a "Best Of" list would typically be based on his significant contributions to cinema, often in dramas that explored themes of race, justice, and social issues, as well as his charismatic performances in more lighthearted fare. Films like "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner," "In the Heat of the Night," or "Lilies of the Field" showcase his range and impact, aligning with a curated list of his best work. The 1982 "Hanky Panky," as described, does not align with the typical cinematic contributions and themes associated with Sidney Poitier's celebrated filmography.
Fast Forward (1985)
#88.0"Fast Forward" might not be the first Sidney Poitier film that comes to mind when discussing his directorial achievements, but it absolutely warrants its place on a list of his "best." Poitier's signature blend of earnestness and gravitas is evident not just in his behind-the-scenes leadership, but also in the film's compelling narrative. He expertly guides a cast of young actors through a story about dreams deferred and the relentless pursuit of artistic aspirations, tackling themes of social disparity and the courage it takes to carve out one's own destiny. The film resonates with an underlying optimism and a commitment to exploring the human spirit, hallmarks that define Poitier's most impactful cinematic contributions. While Poitier himself doesn't star in "Fast Forward," his directorial vision shapes every frame, imbuing it with a subtle but potent message about perseverance and the importance of holding onto one's passion against all odds. He crafts a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, showcasing his talent for eliciting strong performances and creating a film that feels both grounded and inspiring. For fans who appreciate Poitier's ability to tell stories that uplift and challenge, "Fast Forward" stands as a testament to his enduring skill as a filmmaker committed to exploring the complexities of the human experience.
Ghost Dad (1990)
#99.0In "Ghost Dad" (1990), Sidney Poitier steps behind the camera to direct this heartwarming, yet spectral, comedy. The story centers on Elliot Hopper (Bill Cosby), a devoted widower struggling to finalize a crucial business deal that will rescue his family from financial hardship following his wife's costly illness. However, fate intervenes in the most unexpected way when a fateful cab ride ends in a tragic accident, sending Elliot's spirit back to the earthly realm. Now a ghost, he must navigate the living world to complete his unfinished business and ensure his three children are secure, all while trying to communicate with them from beyond the grave. While "Ghost Dad" showcases Poitier's directorial talent in crafting a story with emotional depth and comedic beats, its inclusion on a list of his "Best Movies" might spark debate for some. Poitier is primarily celebrated for his groundbreaking acting career, marked by powerful performances in films that challenged racial barriers and explored complex human experiences. "Ghost Dad" falls into a lighter, more family-friendly comedic vein, which differs from the profound dramas that cemented his legacy. However, as a director, Poitier brought his characteristic gravitas and a keen understanding of narrative to this project, demonstrating his versatility and his enduring commitment to storytelling. For those who appreciate Poitier's multifaceted contributions to cinema, "Ghost Dad" represents a glimpse into his work as a filmmaker, offering a charming and ultimately touching tale of paternal love and perseverance, even from the afterlife.
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