film directed by Robert Benton personally adaptation of the novel of the same name made ​​for Avery Coleman , is a reflection of the problems of single-parent families masterpiece . Won the fifty-second session of the Academy Award for Best Picture , Best Director , Best Adapted Screenplay , Best Actor , Best Supporting Actress five Awards . Ted Kramer is an advertising staff , he is busy all day and no time to take care of his wife , Joanna , and 6 - year-old son Billy . However , one day , tired all day busy chores Joanna finally could no longer endure this life , leaving behind her husband and son ran away from home .