Lost in America 1985

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.