British references, likewise, show high regard for the film, with David Shipman in his 1984 "The Good Film and Video Guide" giving 3 (out of 4) stars, noting that "s mystery or detective story this film is only fair, but it has enormous tension. Within its given framework, it is good on the colour question. There is tension in the eyes of the black (Sidney Poitier), who happens to be a homicide officer, and malevolence in those of the local police chief (Rod Steiger). These are two remarkable performances, well supported by Warren Oates, Lee Grant and Larry Gates."