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.

jimu63 "That Certain Summer" is one of the all-time great TV movies. Even though I haven't seen it in maybe 15 years, it is forever seared into my memory as few films I have seen before or since.***SPOILER ALERT***Hal Holbrook plays a divorcee with a young son and a male lover, played by Martin Sheen. Although they have been together for several years, his son has no idea of his homosexuality, because, let's face it, you just didn't acknowledge such things thirty years ago. When the son comes to visit, Sheen moves out to protect his beloved, even though he thinks the boy should be told. The visit goes well until the boy finds evidence of his father's secret life and Holbrook realizes it's time to come clean. The final scene between father and son is absolutely heartbreaking in the simplicity of its emotion and honesty. And the look of shame and disgust on the boy's face is absolutely shattering. As is true in the best movies, little is resolved by the end.Holbrook and Sheen are excellent as is to be expected, and Hope Lange lends credible support as the supportive ex-wife who married him because she thought she could "change" him. Her scene with Sheen is honest and perceptive. But the real find here is Scott Jacoby as the son. I believe he won an Emmy for this role, and if I'm right, it was well-deserved. Unfortunately, like many of his contemporary child actors, he followed this up with several terrific performances (my favorites--"Bad Ronald" and "The Little Girl Who Lives Down the Lane")before disappearing in the early eighties. Thank goodness today's Hollywood is more willing to let it's more talented child actors age gracefully into adulthood.Suffice it to say this is a perfect film and deserves to find a life on home video. And considering society's aversion to anything gay at the time, it was incredibly brave of everyone involved to participate. Watch for this one on the late show. ***** (out of *****)

harry-76 "That Certain Summer" was more than just one of 1972's best productions made expressly for television. It was an outstanding presentation by any standard and for any medium. The entire cast, crew, and production team worked in fine ensemble fashion to create a memorable and significant achievement. This deserves to be revived and widely offered on video.

surfbumxx Hal Holbrook is excellent. Martin Sheen is excellent. The story line is very touching. Hal Holbrook's son does not know his father is gay when he first comes for his annual summer visit. His live in lover, Martin Sheen, moves out during the visit and moves in with his very liberal minded sister and brother-in-law. One of the most memorable exchanges for me, takes place between Martin Sheen and his sister when she tells him how much she understands his lifestyle. His response is unexpected but very right on! The son learns accidently about his father and runs away but befriends a cablecar operator who helps him sort things out. Hope Lange is the perfect ex-wife. Great movie. I wish ABC would re-release it!