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Short summary

Dr. Matt Younger and his daughter arrive for a month-long visit to London for dirt-bike racing and unexpectedly, a new romance for the widowed Dr. Younger. His new love interest is the ... See full summary
Dr. Matt Younger and his daughter arrive for a month-long visit to London for dirt-bike racing and unexpectedly, a new romance for the widowed Dr. Younger. His new love interest is the beautiful and playful Catherine who seems to enjoy eluding Dr. Younger as much as she enjoys eluding the mysterious men who are following her. Their romance develops gradually as does the viewers' understanding of what is going on with this charming woman and the complications she brings with her.

Trailers "A Warm December (1973)"

T.P. McKenna was cast in the role of Dr. Henry Barlow by Director and star Sidney Poitier. However, after the scenes were filmed, Poitier decided to re-cast George Baker, and the relevant scenes were re-shot.

Motorcycles used were single-cylinder 500cc BSA B50 MXs.

Twice has Sidney Poitier played a character with the last name of Younger. As Walter Younger in "A Raisin in the Sun"; and Dr. Matt Younger in "Warm December."

User reviews


  • comment
    • Author: Agamaginn
    This is one of my absolutely favorite movies. I try to watch it every time I find out it is coming on television. A genuine inspiration to me because I was diagnosed with Sickle Cell Anemia when I was 9 years old. The doctor told my mother that I would never live to be 18 years old. When I was 17, I became severely ill and was unable to walk for a long time. I bless the Lord because I am still alive and an avid Advocate for Sickle Cell Warriors. I am trying to get more awareness of this movie that was filmed when people did not consider those of us who suffer daily with such severe pain. The Writer: Lawrence Roman is to be commended. There must be a story behind this. I preached a sermon one time: "Behind Every Glory, There Is a Story!" Still hanging on at 70. Sidney Poitier was the first Movie Star I saw in "Lilies of the Field!" I do wish I could have met him, because he made such an impact on my life.

    Bishop Ann Elmore Ambers January 17, 2018
  • comment
    • Author: Funky
    This is the type of film that critics probably hated because there is not an ounce of meanness in the film. And considering that this was 1973 when black movies such as "Cleopatra Jones" and "Shaft" were the norm, an old fashioned romantic drama like this, it probably didn't go well with audiences, either. Some critics may obviously compare this to "Love Story" and other tearjerkers popular at the time, but this one is quite different. Sidney Poitier plays a widowed doctor visiting London from Washington D.C. who finds himself entranced with a mysterious young woman (Ester Anderson) whom he keeps spotting around the city and saves from men obviously following her. It's obvious that she is someone special, and a la "Roman Holiday", it takes a while for him to find out just who she is. But once they finally do get together, the sparks fly between them, and his young daughter (Yvette Curtis) is crazy for her as well. They spend a lovely weekend away and all seems like they will live happily ever after. But destiny intervenes and leads to a conclusion heartbreaking for all three.

    There is an innocence of the three major characters in this film that instantly makes the viewer root for them. Poitier and Anderson may seem a bit far apart in age to be a matched team, but they share a lovely chemistry, complimented by young Ms. Curtis as one of the most well behaved young girls I've seen in real life and on screen. Too perfect may seem the right adjective to describe them, but believe it or not, it can exist, and there's not a drug pusher, hooker, or pimp, "Blacula" like monster in sight. The only reason why this might have gotten a PG rating was because a black-themed "G" film wouldn't sell, and an obvious liaison between the two lovers does take place. What also starts off seeming to be a possible spy adventure turns quickly, making this a surprising delight.
  • comment
    • Author: Quellik
    A Warm December is my all time favorite film! An inspiration way ahead of it's time and still remains so, even today. When on earth will this film be released on DVD? Also, will the score be made available? A Warm December is so refreshing! It is superbly paced and provides a lesson in meaningful drama. I learn something new every time I view this film. EXCELLENT work by Sidney Poitier in front and behind the camera! It is quite astounding to realize that he accomplished such an evolved story in the 1970's. This story is superbly written, wonderfully edited and the score is simply magnificent. I cannot say enough about this wonderful film. The performances are superb across the board and Esther Anderson and Sidney Poitier are a joy to watch. Thank you so much for this inspiring film Mr. Poitier. Did I mention this is my all time favorite film?
  • comment
    • Author: Mikale
    I was just so pleasantly surprised and touched by the sweet sadness of this movie, even at a young age. I have rarely seen African Americans portrayed on screen as people (not stereotypes) who spoke to each other intelligently and dealt with issues in a civilized manner. This movie also made me aware of the vast difference in culture between Black Africans and Black Americans. All around wonderful film. This is the type of film the entire family can watch and enjoy. There is not a lot of car chases or explosions so you can watch and think about what the characters are going through, how they are feeling and how this is influenced by the difference in culture. I would like to see this film aired more often and I recommend it highly.
  • comment
    • Author: Cherry The Countess
    I recall this movie when it was originally released in 1973. I was a young child,and it was a welcomed relief from the "Blaxploitation" films of the era. This movie has been one of my favorites since I first saw it. It has periodically been shown on network t.v.through the years, so I have been able to see it from time to time prior to the release of the VHS tape. This is Sidney Poitier doing what he does best. Charming, intelligent and in a romantic lead. Ester Anderson was also very beautiful and quite delightful in her role. It is a shame that her life in the cinema was so short-lived. Yvette Curtis was also charming, and went on to her next memorable role in Claudine. It would be wonderful to know where these two actresses are now!
  • comment
    • Author: Brialelis
    Thanks to the TV1 Network, I had the opportunity to see this fantastic film. I absolutely loved it! It was a quaint and refreshing break from the norm. It is one that I would love to add to my collection so that I might share this gem with friends and family. In the 70's when the film was released, I was merely a twinkle in my parents eyes but oh how I have come to love and appreciate Sydney Poitier as an outstanding actor. I've had the privilege of experiencing, "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner," "A Raisin in the Sun," and "Uptown Saturday Night." I look forward to delving into the treasure of Sydney Poitier classics. Thank you for a great film. It was wonderful to watch a beautiful romance unfold.
  • comment
    • Author: Marg
    Had this been Doris Day and Rock Hudson...this movie would have won an Academy Award as best picture.

    It was one of the first movies of this type to display minorities of color as people and not stereotypes.

    The outstanding performances by all of the actors in this movie and should be emulated by all movies of this type.

    If anyone has any information on Esther Anderson; please contact me.

    If anyone has any information on Yvette Curtis; please contact me.

    Good Writing,excellent performances, and insightful dialogs make this a movie that should be in all collections.

    This is movie making at its best.
  • comment
    • Author: Yla
    I first saw this film about ten years ago and was bored by the run-of-the-mill, short on chemistry " romance",despite the personal, individual attractiveness of Poitier and Anderson,who looked gorgeous in those 70s fashions and Afro hairdo.However,I just recently caught what I consider the best and most memorable part- the spellbinding, electrifying appearance of the beautiful,talented South African singer, Letta Mbulu.What a voice! It was my first introduction to South African group performance.It saves the film in my opinion.

    The film does have other redeeming qualities however, such as the star quality Sidney Poitier and the striking Johnny Sekka, a Senegalese actor who in his early roles in British cinema was type cast and who fared slightly better in Hollywood.
  • comment
    • Author: Thorgaginn
    Logging on to the IMDb to rate this movie, I was surprised to find that I'd previously rated it some years ago, giving it a perhaps-harsh 4/10. That's the beauty of this later Poitier endeavour... it's so forgettable you can see it more than once and each time it's like the first.

    That's not to say that the languid pace and TV movie direction by Poitier (far more effective in front of the camera than behind it, sadly) make this a film without merit. In its layered depiction of black people on the screen, Poitier's second England movie may not be the equal of the first, but has plenty of things to say... even if it does say those things in a relaxed, heavily reflective manner.

    The real problem with the film is that as a love story with a tragic twist it's incredibly staid, almost sterile. Chemistry is not flowing from the screen here, even for the relatively passive time in which it was made. And such a stiff depiction of romance is only expounded by the presence of Yvette Curtis as Poitier's daughter. While okay at general lines, she's unable to emote, and scenes where she's supposedly concerned over whether Catherine lives or dies see her looking like she's wondering to have jam or just butter on her morning toast.

    Six years before this Poitier was the biggest box office star in the world, having had three huge hits in 1967. After this it's directing and co-starring with Bill Cosby in three so-so comedies and appearing in a Michael Caine thriller, then acting retirement. Such a drastic change in his standing is remarkable.

    Despite Poitier's much later return from retirement (and later, sad decline into TV movie actor... what a waste) A Warm December marks one of his final last gasps as a major force. As a Sidney Poitier work then it's probably not even in the top 15 of his films that you should make a point of seeing. But, if you've got an afternoon when you're not too busy, A Warm December will help to pass the time quite pleasantly... if not so memorably.
  • comment
    • Author: Ubranzac
    I mean Sidney,However not even he could save this film.
  • Complete credited cast:
    Sidney Poitier Sidney Poitier - Dr. Matt Younger
    Ester Anderson Ester Anderson - Catherine Oswandu (as Esther Anderson)
    Yvette Curtis Yvette Curtis - Stefanie Younger
    George Baker George Baker - Dr. Henry Barlow
    Johnny Sekka Johnny Sekka - Dr. Joseph Myomo
    Earl Cameron Earl Cameron - Ambassador George Oswandu
    Hilary Crane Hilary Crane - Marsha Barlow
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