Logo What's After the Movie

Lost in America 1985

A poignant comedy that shines a light on the complexities of homelessness, juxtaposing the perspectives of those living on the streets, those in power, and those trying to make a difference.

A poignant comedy that shines a light on the complexities of homelessness, juxtaposing the perspectives of those living on the streets, those in power, and those trying to make a difference.

Does Lost in America have end credit scenes?

No!

Lost in America does not have end credit scenes. You can leave when the credits roll.

Meet the Full Cast and Actors of Lost in America

Explore the complete cast of Lost in America, including both lead and supporting actors. Learn who plays each character, discover their past roles and achievements, and find out what makes this ensemble cast stand out in the world of film and television.


Ratings and Reviews for Lost in America

See how Lost in America is rated across major platforms like IMDb, Metacritic, and TMDb. Compare audience scores and critic reviews to understand where Lost in America stands among top-rated movies in its genre.


Metacritic

78

Metascore

7.3

User Score

Rotten Tomatoes
review

100%

TOMATOMETER

review

87%

User Score

IMDb

7.0 /10

IMDb Rating

TMDB

69

%

User Score

Take the Ultimate Lost in America Movie Quiz

Challenge your knowledge of Lost in America with this fun and interactive movie quiz. Test yourself on key plot points, iconic characters, hidden details, and memorable moments to see how well you really know the film.


Lost in America Quiz: Test your knowledge on the film 'Lost in America' and its themes of adventure, relationships, and self-discovery.

What was David's profession at the beginning of the movie?

Full Plot Summary and Ending Explained for Lost in America

See more

Read the complete plot summary of Lost in America, including all major events, twists, and the full ending explained in detail. Explore key characters, themes, hidden meanings, and everything you need to understand the story from beginning to end.


David and Linda Howard embody the quintessential 1980s yuppie couple living in Los Angeles, grappling with their unfulfilling bourgeois existence. David, working at an advertising agency, and Linda, employed at a department store, find themselves at a crossroads when an anticipated promotion eludes David, leading to an explosive confrontation with his boss that results in his dismissal. In a quest for change, David persuades Linda to leave her job as well, igniting their desire for a new adventure.

Determined to break free from the monotony of their lives, the Howards make the bold choice to sell their house, liquidate their assets, and forsake conventional society, inspired by the spirit of Easy Rider. They embark on a cross-country journey in a Winnebago, departing Los Angeles with a hefty sum of $145,000. However, their plans take an unfortunate turn when Linda, tempted by the roulette tables at the Desert Inn Casino in Las Vegas, loses all their savings. In a state of desperation, David attempts — and fails — to charm the casino manager into returning their money for a promotional stunt.

With their financial expectations shattered, the couple’s tension boils over at the Hoover Dam, where Linda unexpectedly decides to hitchhike. This choice leads to further chaos when the driver gives David a black eye. Their misfortunes do not end there; a motorcycle cop soon pulls them over for speeding at 83 mph on a rural road, but the couple cleverly manages to evade a fine by referencing both Easy Rider and the then-recent film The Terminator.

Eventually, they reach the quaint town of Safford, Arizona, where David’s job search proves fruitless; his application for a delivery position at a local pharmacy is unsuccessful. In desperation, he turns to an employment agency, only to discover that high-paying jobs are a rarity in the area. Acceptance comes in the form of a crossing guard position, where he faces mockery from local children. Meanwhile, Linda finds herself working as the assistant manager at a Der Wienerschnitzel, under the supervision of a teenager.

In a swift progression, just days into what was supposed to be their freedom from societal constraints, David and Linda find themselves residing in a trailer park, nearly broke, and toiling in dead-end positions. Concluding that their previous lifestyle may have been preferable, they make the choice to return to New York City. In an end note, it is revealed that David successfully regains his job, albeit with a 31% salary reduction, though with improved medical benefits. To their delight, the couple learns they are expecting their first child, pushing them to embrace a semblance of their former life once again.

Uncover the Details: Timeline, Characters, Themes, and Beyond!

Watch Trailers, Clips & Behind-the-Scenes for Lost in America

See more

Watch official trailers, exclusive clips, cast interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage from Lost in America. Dive deeper into the making of the film, its standout moments, and key production insights.


Lost in America (1985) ORIGINAL TRAILER [HD 1080p]

Movie Themes and Keywords

Discover the central themes, ideas, and keywords that define the movie’s story, tone, and message. Analyze the film’s deeper meanings, genre influences, and recurring concepts.


married couplecross country triproad tripwinnebagoquitting a jobmobile homecrossing guardjourneylocation in titleplace name in titlethree word titlesafford arizonaarizonaarizona desertsatire comedynevadaunited states of americarvhusbandwiferoad comedyadvertising executivecreative directorman in a bathrobeboy on a biketitle co written by femalegravity damactor director writerroad trip comedymiddle classsocial satiredismissalmid life crisistravel and exploringclass distinctioncompulsive gamblerdinerfast food restauranthitchhikinglos angeles californiamortgagepovertysmall town lifebourgeois liferoulette tableunemployment officebad day at workreference to i. magnin & company department store san franciscofarewell partywedding chapel

Similar Movies You Should Know About

Browse a curated list of movies similar in genre, tone, characters, or story structure. Discover new titles like the one you're watching, perfect for fans of related plots, vibes, or cinematic styles.


© 2025 What's After the Movie. All rights reserved.