Howard Rollins Movies And TV Shows

Dive into the captivating work of Howard Rollins Jr. , an accomplished American actor whose career spanned television, film, and stage. Rollins, known for his gripping performances as Coalhouse Walker Jr. in Ragtime and Virgil Tibbs in In the Heat of the Night, left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.

Films

1. A Soldier's Story

Alone, far from home, and far from justice, he has three days to learn the truth about a murder... and the truth is a story you won't forget.

Experience a captivating tale of justice and prejudice in "A Soldier's Story", set in rural Louisiana, 1984. As a black Master Sergeant is found murdered outside an Army Base, Captain Davenport, a military lawyer, is dispatched from Washington to conduct the investigation. Amidst an uncooperative chain of command and fearful black troops, Davenport must fight against deceit and prejudice to unveil the truth behind the tragic death. This engrossing mystery will keep you on your toes with a story you'll never forget.

IMDb Rating: 7.2
TMDb Rating: 6.7
Metacritic Rating: 66.0
Release Date: 1984-09-14
Runtime: 101.0 minutes
Original Language: en
Origin Country: ["US"]
Budget: $6,000,000.0
Box Office Revenue: $21,821,300.0
Status: Released

2. Ragtime

The passion, the violence, the birth of America's Gilded Age.

Immerse yourself in the tumultuous world of early 1900s New York City, where racial tensions, infidelity, and violence brew beneath the surface. "Ragtime" weaves together the lives of an upper-class white family and a young black pianist, both grappling with the passion and challenges of their time. Witness the birth of America's Gilded Age through the nostalgic lens of this captivating tale.

IMDb Rating: 7.3
TMDb Rating: 7.0
Release Date: 1981-11-20
Runtime: 155.0 minutes
Original Language: en
Origin Country: ["US"]
Status: Released

3. The Children of Times Square

Experience the gritty streets of New York City in "The Children of Times Square" (1986), where a misfit teenage boy escapes his mundane life and finds himself entangled in a web of crime. As he ventures into the dangerous world of drug dealing and pickpocketing, he forms an unlikely bond with a group of juvenile delinquents, all working for a mysterious crime boss. This thrilling movie explores themes of alienation, loyalty, and the consequences of bad choices, taking the audience on an unforgettable journey into the heart of the city's underbelly.

IMDb Rating: 6.3
TMDb Rating: 6.0
Release Date: 1986-03-03
Runtime: 94.0 minutes
Original Language: en
Origin Country: ["US"]
Status: Released

4. Drunks

All they want is another shot...

In "Drunks, " Director George Hickenlooper masterfully captures the gritty reality of addiction, chronicling the journeys and stories of several lost souls attending an AA meeting. The film delves deep into the lives of these individuals, portraying their battles with sobriety and addiction in a raw and honest manner.

IMDb Rating: 6.4
TMDb Rating: 3.3
Release Date: 1997-03-14
Runtime: 90.0 minutes
Original Language: en
Origin Country: ["US"]
Status: Released

5. With Murder in Mind

Gayle Wolfer's life became a nightmare when she discovered that the man who tried to murder her was an officer of the law.

With Murder in Mind, a suspenseful drama released in 1992, follows Gayle Wolfer's life as it spirals into chaos when the man who nearly took it from her becomes a police officer. As a real estate agent, Gayle is left to piece together the truth behind the assassination attempt on her life, ultimately unveiling the dark secrets of her shooter.

IMDb Rating: 5.8
TMDb Rating: 4.7
Release Date: 1992-05-12
Runtime: 100.0 minutes
Original Language: en
Origin Country: ["US"]
Status: Released

6. Thornwell

Thornwell, released in 1981, tells the riveting story of James Thornwell. After accusing the U. S. Army of using mind control drugs to force him into confessing to stealing secret documents while stationed in Orleans, France in 1961, Congress awarded him an astonishing $625,000 in damages. A truly remarkable tale that unravels the intricacies of the mind and the power of truth.

IMDb Rating: 6.6
TMDb Rating: 6.0
Release Date: 1981-01-28
Runtime: 97.0 minutes
Original Language: en
Origin Country: ["US"]
Status: Released

7. The Trial of the Moke

Experience the gripping atmosphere of "The Trial of the Moke" (1978), where Henry Flipper, the first black West Point graduate, becomes the target of a sinister conspiracy at Fort Davis in Texas. This historical drama transports you into a time and place where prejudice and conspiracy intertwine, presenting viewers with a compelling and thought-provoking storyline. Don't miss out on this powerful tale of perseverance and the struggle for equality. Release Date: May 3, 1978. Runtime: 90 minutes.

IMDb Rating: 6.5
TMDb Rating: 10.0
Release Date: 1978-05-03
Runtime: 90.0 minutes
Original Language: en
Origin Country: ["US"]
Status: Released

8. He's Fired, She's Hired

Explore the heartwarming journey of Alex Grier, a talented advertising executive who loses his job, only to witness his wife Annabelle rise to success in his place. As Annabelle navigates the challenges of her new position, Alex takes on the role of a dedicated father, navigating the trials of family life while pursuing his passion to write the ultimate American novel. Join this engaging tale of resilience, love, and the power of second chances.

IMDb Rating: 5.3
TMDb Rating: 6.0
Release Date: 1984-12-18
Runtime: 100.0 minutes
Original Language: en
Origin Country: ["US"]
Status: Released

9. Johnnie Mae Gibson: FBI

Based on the real-life nightmare of an exposed undercover cop

Johnnie Mae Gibson: FBI is an adrenaline-pumping, high-stakes thriller from 1986. It follows a dedicated police officer who is recruited by the F. B. I. to go deep undercover and dismantle a dangerous gang of arms smugglers. As Mae navigates the dangerous world of crime, she must risk everything to bring justice to those who seek to harm her community. Based on a true-life story and filled with action, intrigue, and suspense, Johnnie Mae Gibson: FBI is a must-watch for fans of law enforcement dramas and edge-of-your-seat thrillers.

IMDb Rating: 6.2
TMDb Rating: 5.0
Release Date: 1986-10-21
Runtime: 96.0 minutes
Original Language: en
Origin Country: ["US"]
Status: Released

10. My Old Man

They said a lot of bad things about my father. But they didn't know the real man behind the rumors... and it took all my love and faith to prove them wrong.

With a single stroke of luck, unlucky horse trainer Frank Butler turns the tables and wins big for himself and daughter Jo. However, Frank's unexpected injury throws Jo into the spotlight as she must brave adversity alone, to prove not just his love, but the true character of the man behind the rumors.

IMDb Rating: 5.9
TMDb Rating: 5.0
Release Date: 1979-12-07
Runtime: 100.0 minutes
Original Language: en
Origin Country: ["US"]
Status: Released

11. The Member of the Wedding

Dive into the heartwarming world of "The Member of the Wedding" with a spirited 12-year-old tomboy, Frankie Addams, who longs to join her brother and his soon-to-be bride on their honeymoon. Watch as this engaging drama comes to life on the big screen in a performance that captures the essence of a young girl's dreams and the bonds that unite us all.

IMDb Rating: 6.3
TMDb Rating: 5.0
Release Date: 1982-12-20
Runtime: 120.0 minutes
Original Language: en
Origin Country: ["US"]
Status: Released

12. A Doctor's Story

Get ready for a heartwarming tale of dedication and belief in "A Doctor's Story, " released in 1984. Set in the enchanting yet gritty world of family and medicine, this profound short film revolves around a physician's unyielding journey to prove that an elderly man is not senile. Follow through the trials and tribulations of this unwavering prodigy as he engages in a fierce battle, with his family by his side.

IMDb Rating: 6.0
TMDb Rating: 5.0
Release Date: 1984-04-23
Runtime: 96.0 minutes
Original Language: en
Origin Country: ["US"]
Status: Released

13. The House of God

Meet Dr. Godfrey and Dr. Gaines, two comical interns navigating the challenges of life and love in a bustling hospital called "The House of God". This heartwarming comedy from 1984 delves into the joys and tribulations of young medical professionals finding their footing in the world of medicine. Grab your popcorn and prepare to laugh as you journey through this delightful tale of friendship, humor, and human connection.

IMDb Rating: 5.5
TMDb Rating: 1.5
Release Date: 1984-01-01
Runtime: 108.0 minutes
Original Language: en
Origin Country: ["US"]
Budget: $8,000,000.0
Status: Released

14. Remembering Ragtime

Embark on a nostalgic journey with Remembering Ragtime, a captivating insight into the creation of the legendary Milos Forman film, Ragtime. This short film transports viewers to the golden age of cinema, blending history, artistry, and human connection. Experience the magic of cinema's past through the memories shared by the dedicated cast and crew who brought Ragtime to life.

IMDb Rating: 7.7
Release Date: 2004-11-16
Runtime: 18.0 minutes
Original Language: en
Origin Country: ["US"]
Status: Released

15. The Legacy of Malthus

Dive into the world of "The Legacy of Malthus, " a thought-provoking film that contrasts the poverty of 19th century Scotland with present-day India. This captivating movie challenges the status quo, questioning if overpopulation alone is the root cause of poverty and environmental degradation. As it debates Malthus' theories, this enlightening film takes on the international population "establishment" and offers a fresh perspective. Don't miss this insightful journey!

IMDb Rating: 7.3
Release Date: 1994-01-01
Runtime: 51.0 minutes
Original Language: en
Origin Country: ["US"]
Status: Released

16. The House of Dies Drear

Is it, or isn't it...haunted?

Behold the gripping narrative of "The House of Dies Drear," as a child-rearing family discovers their new abode in the serene Ohio countryside, unaware of the chilling legacies nestled within. Little do they know, their residence was once the hideout for Dutch immigrants who engaged in the nefarious practice of slave smuggling during the tumultuous era of the Civil War. As they maneuver their way through the unforeseen twists, they become increasingly suspicious that the dwelling is haunted by the restless spirits of those who once dwelled there as enslaved captives.

IMDb Rating: 6.4
Release Date: 1984-06-01
Runtime: 116.0 minutes
Original Language: en
Origin Country: ["US"]
Status: Released

17. The Neighborhood

Experience the powerful impact of change in "The Neighborhood". Delving into the complexities of racial divisions, this 1982 film captures the transformative atmosphere when the first black families move into a tight-knit Brooklyn community. Through its raw and honest portrayal of tensions and emotions, this riveting drama unfolds the intricacies of integration and the resilience of neighbors.

IMDb Rating: 6.1
Release Date: 1982-04-25
Runtime: 90.0 minutes
Original Language: en
Origin Country: ["US"]
Status: Released

18. For Us, the Living: The Story of Medgar Evers

In this gripping biopic, "For Us, the Living: The Story of Medgar Evers", we are introduced to Medgar Evers, a driven insurance agent with no shortage of ambition. Relocating to Jackson, Mississippi, Medgar takes up the mantle of directing the regional headquarters of the NAACP, soon becoming a powerful figure in the black community. As he navigates the treacherous world of segregation and political strife, this extraordinary individual leads the charge against the oppressive forces of racism.

Release Date: 1983-03-22
Runtime: 87.0 minutes
Original Language: en
Origin Country: ["US"]
Status: Released

TV Shows

1. In the Heat of the Night

When the Night Grows Hot is an enthralling American television show that ran from 1988 to 1995. Adapted from the movie and novel of the same name, the series features Carroll O'Connor as the white police chief, William Gillespie, and Howard Rollins portraying the African-American police detective, Virgil Tibbs. Throughout the span of eight seasons, audiences witnessed the duo's intricate collaboration in addressing challenging cases, ultimately confronting racial issues in a close-knit community. This thought-provoking series, aired on NBC and later CBS, provides an impactful and emotionally charged viewing experience that leaves a lasting impression.

Original Name: In the Heat of the Night
TMDb Rating: 7.426
Languages: ["en"]
Episode Runtime: [60]
Status: Ended
Origin Country: ["US"]
Original Language: en
Type: Scripted
First Air Date: 1988-03-06
Last Air Date: 1995-05-16
Number of Seasons: 8
Number of Episodes: 146

2. New York Undercover

As kids, they grew up on the mean streets of New York. As cops, they're coming to take them back.

New York Undercover is an intense police drama that takes viewers deep into the underbelly of New York City's crime-ridden Fourth Precinct. The series follows the journey of two skilled undercover detectives, J. C. and Eddie, as they navigate the dangerous world of urban criminals and uncover the truth behind gang-related cases. With compelling characters and gripping storylines, this American series offers a thrilling glimpse into the life of a cop operating in one of the busiest and most crime-prone cities in the world.

Original Name: New York Undercover
TMDb Rating: 7.2
Languages: ["en"]
Episode Runtime: []
Status: Ended
Origin Country: ["US"]
Original Language: en
Type: Scripted
First Air Date: 1994-09-08
Last Air Date: 1999-02-11
Number of Seasons: 4
Number of Episodes: 89

3. Roots: The Next Generations

Roots: The Next Generations is an enthralling miniseries that builds upon the legacy of the 1977 classic. Nestled in Henning, Tennessee, the narrative unfolds around the Haley family, chronicling their journey from 1882 to the 1960s. This gripping sequel delves into themes of resilience, courage, and the unwavering quest for freedom. Boasting a production budget three times larger than its predecessor, Roots: The Next Generations presents a visually captivating and emotive cinematic experience.

Original Name: Roots: The Next Generations
TMDb Rating: 7.4
Languages: ["en", "fr"]
Episode Runtime: [96]
Status: Ended
Origin Country: ["US"]
Original Language: en
Type: Miniseries
First Air Date: 1979-02-18
Last Air Date: 1979-02-25
Number of Seasons: 1
Number of Episodes: 7

4. Fridays

Get ready for a night of non-stop laughter with Fridays, a groundbreaking weekly late-night live comedy show that aired on ABC from 1980 to 1982. With a total of 60 hilarious episodes, this series showcased the best talent from the comedy world and became a staple in many households. Tune in for an unforgettable ride filled with laughter, surprises, and memorable moments.

Original Name: Fridays
TMDb Rating: 5.0
Languages: ["en"]
Episode Runtime: [90]
Status: Ended
Origin Country: ["US"]
Original Language: en
Type: Scripted
First Air Date: 1980-04-11
Last Air Date: 1982-04-23
Number of Seasons: 3
Number of Episodes: 60

5. King

Delve into the inspiring life of martyr and civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. , through the gripping three-episode miniseries "King". From his early days as a Southern Baptist minister to his untimely death in 1968, this powerful portrayal sheds light on the pivotal moments that shaped the course of history. Witness the unwavering determination of King as he strives for equality and justice in a time of great struggle, leaving an indelible mark on the nation that still resonates today.

Original Name: King
TMDb Rating: 6.4
Languages: ["en"]
Episode Runtime: [120]
Status: Ended
Origin Country: ["US"]
Original Language: en
Type: Miniseries
First Air Date: 1978-02-12
Last Air Date: 1978-02-13
Number of Seasons: 1
Number of Episodes: 3

6. Another World

Another World is a captivating American soap opera that aired on NBC for an astounding 35 years. Set in the charming yet fictional town of Bay City, this series delves deep into exotic melodrama, exploring the intricate relationships between families of various classes and philosophies. With a unique focus on both the world of events and the world of feelings, Another World provides a refreshing take on the traditional soap opera genre.

Original Name: Another World
TMDb Rating: 5.0
Languages: ["en"]
Episode Runtime: [60]
Status: Canceled
Origin Country: ["US"]
Original Language: en
Type: Scripted
First Air Date: 1964-05-04
Last Air Date: 1999-06-25
Number of Seasons: 36
Number of Episodes: 1680

7. Wildside

Step into the world of "Wildside, " an American series aired by ABC in 1985. This thrilling series stars a diverse and talented cast, including William Smith, J. Eddie Peck, Howard Rollins, Sandy McPeak, Terry Funk, John D'Aquino, and the young Meg Ryan. Spanning six episodes, "Wildside" captivates audiences with its unique blend of drama and action, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in this forgotten gem of television history.

Original Name: Wildside
TMDb Rating: 5.7
Languages: ["en"]
Episode Runtime: [60, 48]
Status: Ended
Origin Country: ["US"]
Original Language: en
Type: Scripted
First Air Date: 1985-03-21
Last Air Date: 1985-04-25
Number of Seasons: 1
Number of Episodes: 6