Top of the Heap is a 1972 American drama film directed by and starring Christopher St. John. It was entered into the 22nd Berlin International Film Festival. Plot A Washington D.C. police officer, George Lattimer (St. John) is proud to be one of few African-Americans in the department. However, his peers, or people do not show love for him. When he is passed up for the promotion of sergeant, trouble erupts. Cast Christopher St. John as George Lattimer Paula Kelly as Black Chick Florence St. Peter as Viola Lattimer Leonard Kuras as Bobby Gelman John Alderson as Captain Walsh Patrick McVey as Tim Cassidy Allen Garfield as Taxi Driver Ingeborg Sørensen as Nurse Swenson (as Ingeborg Sorensen) Ron Douglas as Hip Passenger John McMurtry as Dope Dealer Damu King as Pot Peddler Ji-Tu Cumbuka as Pot Peddler Brian Cutler as Rookie Policeman Jerry Jones as Club Owner Willie Harris as Bouncer See also List of American films of 1972 References External links 1972 films 1972 drama films American drama films Films directed by Christopher St. John Films set in Washington, D.C. Films shot in Washington, D.C. 1970s English-language films 1970s American films