Watch Racing with the Moon
- PG
- 1984
- 1 hr 48 min
-
6.6 (5,331)
Set in 1942, Racing with the Moon is a nostalgic coming-of-age drama that follows two young men, Henry 'Hopper' Nash (Sean Penn) and Nicky (Nicolas Cage), who are about to join the Navy to fight in World War II. Before they leave, they decide to spend their last few days of freedom hanging out, chasing girls, and making the most of their youth.
While at a movie theater, Hopper catches a glimpse of a beautiful girl, Caddie Winger (Elizabeth McGovern), and is immediately smitten. He manages to steal a dance with her at a local dance hall, and the two begin to fall in love. Caddie, however, is keeping a secret from Hopper that could threaten their relationship.
As the days pass, Hopper and Nicky's carefree antics take a more serious turn as they begin to recognize the gravity of the war and the sacrifice they may need to make. They both struggle with their impending departures, and Hopper in particular grapples with the fear and uncertainty of what lies ahead.
Throughout the film, the themes of love, loss, and the bittersweet nature of growing up are explored. The chemistry between Penn and McGovern is palpable, and their romance is both tender and heart-wrenching. Cage puts in a solid supporting performance as the charismatic and impulsive Nicky, providing some welcome levity to what could otherwise be a heavy-handed narrative.
The film also features some beautiful cinematography, capturing the nostalgic look and feel of 1940s America. The attention to detail in the props and costumes further adds to the immersive experience of the time period.
Overall, Racing with the Moon is a touching and thoughtful exploration of the challenges faced by young adults in a time of war, as well as the joys and sorrows of first love. It's a film that will linger in your mind long after the credits roll.
Racing with the Moon is a 1984 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 48 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6 and a MetaScore of 66.
