That Night

That Night

Company type	Film
Industry	Motion picture
Founded	1992
Founder	Craig Bolotin (writer-director)
Products	Coming-of-age romantic drama film

That Night—originally known as One Hot Summer, is a 1992 American coming-of-age romantic drama crafted by writer-director Craig Bolotin, featuring performances by C. Thomas Howell and Juliette Lewis. The screenplay adapts the 1987 novel of the same title authored by Alice McDermott.

This film serves as the first screen appearance for both Eliza Dushku and Katherine Heigl.

Plot

Set in Long Island during 1961, the story centers on 10-year-old Alice Bloom, who idolizes her 17-year-old neighbor Sheryl O'Connor, mimicking her fashion and way of life. Alice is captivated by the warmth Sheryl shares with her father, a stark contrast to her own emotionally distant family ties.

At a local bowling alley, Alice observes Sheryl rebuffing advances from neighborhood boys and encountering Rick, who works behind the counter. Following the sudden passing of Sheryl’s father, she develops a closer bond with Rick, experiencing tender moments such as their first kiss and a day spent together at the beach.

Sheryl’s mother disapproves of Rick, ultimately sending Sheryl to a home for unwed mothers after discovering her pregnancy. Despite rumors and conflicts—including a fight involving Rick’s group—Alice remains loyal to Sheryl, aiding in keeping her relationship private.

Rick finds Sheryl at the maternity home, where she chooses adoption for her baby due to financial difficulties. Although Rick offers an engagement ring he suggests she pawn, Sheryl declines his proposal to run away, opting instead to stay with her family amidst uncertain circumstances.

The narrative concludes with Alice safely returning home after learning that Sheryl and Rick are striving for a fresh start on the West Coast despite earlier obstacles.

Cast

• C. Thomas Howell as Rick
• Juliette Lewis as Sheryl O'Connor
• Helen Shaver as Ann O'Connor
• Eliza Dushku as Alice Bloom
• John Dossett as Larry Bloom
• J. Smith-Cameron as Carol Bloom
• Katherine Heigl as Kathryn
• Adam LeFevre as Mr. Carpenter

Production

Principal photography commenced in Baltimore County in September 1991, with additional filming conducted across Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Reception

The film holds a 67% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on six critical reviews, with particular acclaim directed toward the performances of Dushku and Lewis.

David Stratton of Variety remarked that while the modest production values align more with television standards, Dushku’s captivating portrayal and Howell’s suitable depiction of the suburban boyfriend stand out. Lewis was characterized as "more than adequate," complemented by her striking blonde appearance.

Janet Maslin from The New York Times critiqued alterations from the original novel and felt Lewis’ performance was disproportionate relative to the film’s subdued tone. Entertainment Weekly assigned a "B−" grade, recognizing director Bolotin's attention to period detail while commending the authentic portrayal of adolescent passion.

Peter Travers of Rolling Stone described the movie as a conventional coming-of-age tale but emphasized Lewis’ "knockout performance," which skillfully conveys teenage sexual complexity, making it an engaging watch.

Home media

That Night was first made available on VHS by Warner Home Video in the United States on January 31, 1995, followed by its U.K. release on February 6, 1995.

The film’s DVD debut in Region 1 (U.S.) occurred on March 6, 2016, via 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment. This restored version retains the original 1.85:1 aspect ratio and includes a digital copy for convenience.