Lost in America

David Howard and his wife Linda represent the classic 1980s yuppie couple living in Los Angeles, but they soon find themselves feeling trapped in their repetitive high-society lifestyle. After facing professional disappointment when David is denied a promotion, he lashes out at his boss and is consequently fired from his job at an advertising agency. In a fit of frustration, he encourages Linda to leave her position at a department store, suggesting they break free from their bourgeois constraints.

Together, the Howards make a bold decision to sell their home and liquidate their assets, setting off on an adventurous journey across the country in a Winnebago RV. Armed with a notable sum of $145,000, they bid farewell to Los Angeles, eager to leave their materialistic lives behind in exchange for excitement and spontaneity. However, their joy is short-lived when Linda’s impulsive choice to gamble at the Desert Inn Casino in Las Vegas results in them losing all their savings to the roulette wheel.

As their initial plans unravel, the couple’s tensions escalate while visiting the Hoover Dam, eventually landing them in the small town of Safford, Arizona. Unfortunately, David’s attempts to find work are fruitless, and he is forced to accept a lowly job as a crossing guard, enduring the ridicule of local children. Meanwhile, Linda takes on a position as assistant manager at Der Wienerschnitzel, working under a teenage boss.

Just days into their experiment of dropping out from society, David and Linda find themselves residing in a trailer park, struggling to make ends meet while working dead-end jobs. Facing the harsh realities of their choices, they soon realize that their former lifestyle may actually be the more sensible option. With a renewed appreciation for stability, they set their sights back on New York City, where David makes a humble request to be rehired at his previous job.

The film wraps up with an epilogue announcing that David has indeed been reinstated, albeit with a 31% pay reduction. However, he now enjoys the benefits of improved health insurance and, most importantly, the excitement of expecting their first child.

Last Updated: November 17, 2024 at 22:24