
Surviving 1985
"It's summer, they're rich and beautiful, filled with passion, and headed for… tragedy."
Surviving (1985), directed by Waris Hussein, is a poignant TV movie that blends drama and romance against the sun-drenched backdrop of a privileged summer.
Director: Waris Hussein
Cast










Frequently Asked Questions
What is Surviving (1985) about?
Surviving follows the tumultuous romance between Lonnie, a quiet and emotionally vulnerable teenager, and Rick, her outgoing boyfriend, whose families clash over their relationship. When Rick's parents forbid them from seeing each other, their love story takes a tragic turn that exposes the fragility of youth and the consequences of misunderstanding.
Who directed Surviving?
Surviving was directed by Waris Hussein, known for his work in both film and television, including TV movies that blend drama and emotional depth.
Who stars in Surviving?
The film stars Zach Galligan as Rick, Molly Ringwald as Lonnie, and features standout performances from Ellen Burstyn, Len Cariou, Marsha Mason, and Paul Sorvino.
Is Surviving (1985) worth watching?
While Surviving isn't widely rated, its blend of drama and romance, coupled with strong performances from its cast, makes it a compelling watch for fans of character-driven 1980s stories. Its themes of love and loss resonate, even if the execution is occasionally uneven.
How long is Surviving?
Surviving has a runtime of 143 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Surviving (1985) — A Summer Romance Wrapped in Heartbreak
Surviving (1985), directed by Waris Hussein, is a poignant TV movie that blends drama and romance against the sun-drenched backdrop of a privileged summer. The story unfolds through the contrasting lives of Lonnie, a withdrawn survivor of a suicide attempt, and Rick, her exuberant, outgoing boyfriend. Their unlikely bond blossoms into a romance that challenges both their families, especially as Lonnie's emotional fragility clashes with Rick's carefree world. The film explores themes of love, loss, and the fragility of youth, wrapped in the tragedy that looms over every sunlit moment. With a cast led by Zach Galligan and Molly Ringwald, Surviving captures the intensity of first love and the heartbreaking consequences of misunderstanding.
Set in the 1980s, the movie delves into the pressures of adolescence and the burden of parental expectations, painting a raw portrait of young lives at a crossroads. The atmospheric tension builds as Lonnie and Rick's relationship deepens, only to unravel under the weight of external forces. Waris Hussein's direction infuses the narrative with emotional depth, making Surviving a compelling watch for fans of character-driven dramas.