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.

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.

That Certain Summer must have been ground breaking for a 1972 audience. Today I saw the film for the first time, and am duly impressed. Too bad it's not available for sale on DVD, or video. Well done stories about homosexuality are difficult to find. This one is well worth seeing! As That Certain Summer was done before the intrusion of AIDS, the film can only focus on homosexuality itself, not on the complexities of gay people reacting to crisis. Fortunately LOGO is showing That Certain Summer, and other similarly good films. That Certain Summer is comparable to the qualities found in Long Time Companion, and As Is. I recommend it!

"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.