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ABC Movie of the Week/That Certain Summer
| That Certain Summer | |
| Airdate | November 1, 1972 |
| Written by | Richard Levinson & William Link |
| Directed by | Lamont Johnson |
| Network | ABC |
| Style | 90-minute drama |
| Company | Universal TV
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| Origin | USA
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That Certain Summer (1972) is a TV movie about a teenager who learns his father is gay. It aired as part of the ABC Movie of the Week, and along with Duel and Brian's Song, it is considered one of the highlights of the series. In addition, with its sensitive, realistic, forthright portrayal of homosexuals (as portrayed by Hal Holbrook and a young Martin Sheen) and lack of easy answers and simplistic resolutions, it is a landmark in the portrayal of GLB themes in American film. Prior to That Certain Summer, homosexuality was either not portrayed at all or merely hinted at (usually as a means of suggesting a character's moral weakness or depravity). A year after That Certain Summer aired, homosexuality was declassified as a mental illness by the American Psychiatric Association, which would further open the door for gay themes and discussions in American pop culture. That Certain Summer is thus a progenitor of everything from Will & Grace to the LoGo network, and an important historical turning point in American film and television. Aside from its theme, it would have one more lasting impact—Sheen's complex, subtle performance would be one of the key stepping stones in his path to becoming a major star.
Cast: Hal Holbrook (Doug Salter), Martin Sheen (Gary McClain), Joe Don Baker (Phil Bonner), Marlyn Mason (Laureen Hyatt), Scott Jacoby (Nick Salter), Hope Lange (Janet Salter), James McEachin (Mr. Early), Clarke Gordon (Artist), Jan Shepard (Jody Bonner), Carolyn Bueno (Mrs. Michele), Myron Natwick (Man at Party), Patti Steele (Woman)
Contents |
Plot Overview
Trivia
Behind the Scenes
Allusions and References
Quotes
DVD Release
Awards and Accolades
Emmys
(7 Nominations/1 Win)
- Nominated: Outstanding Single Program - Drama or Comedy
- Nominated: Outstanding Single Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role
- Nominated: Outstanding Single Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role
- Won: Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in Drama
- Nominated: Outstanding Writing Achievement in Drama - Original Teleplay
- Nominated: Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Drama - A Single Program
- Nominated: Outstanding Achievement in Film Sound Mixing
- Melvin M. Metcalfe Sr. & Thom Piper
Golden Globes
(1 Nomination/1 Win)
- Won: Best Movie Made for TV
DGA Awards
(1 Nomination/1 Win)
- Won: Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Specials
- Lamont Johnson, Jack Terry, G. Warren Smith & Harvey S. Laidman
PGA Golden Laurel Awards
(1 Win)
- Won: PGA Hall of Fame - Television Programs (1999)
Other Awards
American Cinema Editors Eddie Awards, USA
- Nominated: Best Edited Television Special - Edward M. Abroms
