Movie Loner

Radio host extraordinaire and comic genius Ron Bennington was quoting Lost in America a couple weeks ago compelling me to pull it from my shelf and rewatch this unappreciated laugher. By the way, that’s Ron and Fez, noon to three on XM Satellite Radio channel 202. I had forgotten just how damn funny Albert Brooks was in the 80s with Broadcast News and Defending Your Life among his comedy credits. However, this streamlined road movie about “checking out” may be his best.

David Howard (Brooks) is awaiting a well-deserved promotion from his advertising firm. With plans of moving into a new home, David and wife Linda (Julie Hagerty) are entering the next chapter of their life together. David’s rise up the economic ladder hits an unexpected snag when his vice-president job is given to someone else. Naturally, he flips out and gets canned. Rather than delve into depression, David spins the positive and convinces Linda it’s time to ditch their predictable existence and go find themselves. So the Howards’ buy a Winnebago and hit the road resting atop a comfy nest-egg of $140,000. Oh, the best laid plans…

A quick stop in Vegas to renew their vows and then they can begin their frugal journey to self-discovery. Before the nuptials, Linda suggests one last night of luxury at the Desert Inn Hotel and Casino. Seems harmless enough until meek Linda turns wild and gambles away the nest-egg while David sleeps. Linda’s high stakes foray leaves them with a hearty sum of $800, putting their anti-society lifestyle in jeopardy. The cross-country expedition lands them in a desolate Arizona town where high-paying jobs are scarce. How long can the Howards’ survive before caving under the pressure to desire the finer things life has to offer?

Simply put, Albert Brooks is hilarious. Watching him lose it in separate tirades aimed at his boss and Linda are examplary of what makes a great comic performance. Brooks boasts precise timing and rare wit, two attributes severely lacking in many comedic actors. Holding her own is the underrated Julie Hagerty, who nails the role of straight woman as she did in the Airplane movies. Brooks’ and Hagerty’s chemistry sells the story as they play off one another brilliantly. Although some of the 80s references prove dated, Lost in America doesn’t lose any luster considering the dreck that passes as comedy today. If you want some smart, genuine laughs give Lost in America a view.