John Shaft (Richard Roundtree) is persuaded by threats of physical force, the promise of money, and the lure of a pretty tutor, to assume the identity of a native-speaking itinerant worker in Africa. His job is to help break a racket that is smuggling immigrants into Europe then exploiting them. But the villains have heard that he is on his way.

Sheep Meadow, Central Park (btw 66th and 69th Streets) Manhattan.

Queensboro Bridge, East 59th Street (btw Manhattan and Queens).