jhkp
There are certain TV Movies (almost always ABC Movies Of The Week)that people like me, who were young teens at the time, will always remember. This was one. I remember clearly that when a TV movie tackling some relevant issue would come out, we were advised by our teachers in Social Studies or English to watch the movie. Critics would review certain important TV films (like this one, and Helter Skelter) in advance - I think it about the only way teachers could be aware of the contents of a film before it aired. In those days, we were all more or less at the mercy of the networks (or locals) if we wanted to watch anything. I remember there were reel to reel video recorders at the school, and sometimes teachers would tape shows off TV. I think That Certain Summer was one. It's been so long since I saw this film that I can't remember anything except some of the actors (excellent) and the location.I do remember that the contents of the film did not seem especially shocking to me or anyone else I knew - child or adult - that saw the film. Everyone just agreed it was a fine film. I was about 13 at the time, by the way.The Movies Of The Week I most vividly remember are: In Search Of America; Mr. and Mrs. Bo Jo Jones; Maybe I'll Come Home In The Spring; Duel; Brian's Song; Letters From Three Lovers; Do Not Fold, Spindle, Or Mutilate; Say Goodbye, Maggie Cole; Isn't It Shocking?; Divorce His, Divorce Hers; A Great American Tragedy; and Longstreet. Some good, some not so good, so so bad they were good, etc.) I'm sure I saw a lot more than the ones I can remember.They were low budget, sometimes cheesy, sometimes stupid, but once in a while a great one was produced, and That Certain Summer was perhaps the most acclaimed of all.
Harold S. Levine
I saw this at the Museum of Radio and Television (don't think it's available on DVD). I had first seen it as what now called a "questioning" young man in 1972 (the son's character was 14, I was 13 at the time) and remembered it being very important to me as the first sensitive, non- judgmental portrayal of gay men on television. I particularly remembered the poise of a very young Martin Sheen. Viewing it again after 35 years it was almost as affecting, with wonderful acting by a very strong ensemble cast, with Hope Lange a stand-out as the mother/ex-wife. I enjoyed the early-70s touches (shag carpeting in the bathroom, 8-track cassettes) but realized that -- despite so many advances in gay rights over the years -- it could almost be re-made today and still make sense. Cross your fingers that this someday is available on DVD.
matildejuan
I am reminded of this serious 1972 TV movie as a result of the newly released film, Brokeback Mountain. I was only 18 at the time, but the Holbrook/Sheen/Lange movie stayed with me for all these years. I think I still have a crush on Martin Sheen in his turtleneck sweater. All three leads in the movie did an excellent job. The movie seemed so serious and rather dark at the time. I just wish we could have talked more about the subject matter back then. It was one of those TV movies that just "disappeared" from site or discussion group comments. (Thank goodness for VHS and DVDs!) I am not aware of any reruns of this movie...ever. I'm sure someone will use it in a documentary some day.
climbingivy
That Certain Summer is way ahead of it's time for the year 1972.I did not see the movie when it originally aired in 1972. I had not even heard of the movie until I received this movie on VHS tape from a collector.I watched it a couple of nights ago, and I was amazed at the subject matter for the year 1972.First off, the cast was excellent. Hal Holbrook, Hope Lange, Martin Sheen, and Scott Jacoby were just right for their roles.The scenery and setting of San Francisco added to the film's atmosphere.What I like best about the movie is the way that the story ended. The ending did not produce any certain answers for the family involved.The viewer can decide whether the family will make it through the heartache and hurt that all of them are experiencing.This movie was very well done,and is very tender and touching.I recommend this movie very much.I have this movie.