Racing with the Moon 1984
"It was 1943. And young men were counting the days before they went off to war..."
Directed by Richard Benjamin, *Racing with the Moon (1984)* transports viewers to a sun-bleached coastal town in 1943, where the looming shadow of World War II hangs over two working-class pals, Henry and Nicky.
Director: Richard Benjamin
Cast
Sean Penn
Henry 'Hopper' Nash
Nicolas Cage
Nicky / Bud
Elizabeth McGovern
Caddie Winger
John Karlen
Mr. Nash
Rutanya Alda
Mrs. Nash
Max Showalter
Mr. Arthur, Piano Teacher
Crispin Glover
Gatsby Boy
Barbara Howard
Gatsby Girl
Bob Maroff
Al
Carol Kane
Annie the Hooker
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Racing with the Moon (1984) about?
Set in 1943, this drama-romance follows two working-class best friends, Henry and Nicky, counting down the days before they're sent to fight in World War II. Their friendship is tested when Henry pursues a mysterious girl in town, while Nicky's reckless behavior drags them all into trouble.
Who directed Racing with the Moon?
The film was directed by Richard Benjamin, known for his work on both comedies and dramas.
Who stars in Racing with the Moon?
The film stars Sean Penn, Nicolas Cage, Elizabeth McGovern, John Karlen, and Rutanya Alda in key roles.
Is Racing with the Moon (1984) worth watching?
While lacking an IMDb rating, *Racing with the Moon* offers a poignant blend of romance and drama set against a wartime backdrop. With strong performances from its lead trio and Benjamin's nostalgic direction, it's a hidden gem for fans of character-driven 80s films.
How long is Racing with the Moon?
The runtime for *Racing with the Moon (1984)* is 108 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Racing with the Moon (1984) — Sean Penn and Nicolas Cage in a wartime coming-of-age drama
Directed by Richard Benjamin, *Racing with the Moon (1984)* transports viewers to a sun-bleached coastal town in 1943, where the looming shadow of World War II hangs over two working-class pals, Henry and Nicky. With just months before they ship out, their carefree teenage days become a bittersweet countdown, filled with laughter, reckless adventures, and the first pangs of young love. When Henry falls for enigmatic newcomer Caddie—a woman he assumes hails from wealth—their bond is tested by Nicky's impulsive antics, forcing all three to confront the fragility of friendship and the weight of impending separation.
Set against the golden haze of nostalgia, this drama-romance captures the bittersweet tension between fleeting innocence and the harsh realities of a world on the brink. With a stellar cast led by Sean Penn and Nicolas Cage as the restless duo, the film balances humor and heartache, exploring themes of loyalty, first love, and the courage to face what comes next. Shot through with sun-drenched cinematography and a hauntingly sweet score, *Racing with the Moon (1984)* lingers like a half-remembered dream of summer days and wartime dread.
