Survivors, The

The movie Survivors, The is a laugh-out-loud comedy that explores a unique story of survival and unanticipated friendship in a rapidly changing society. Released in 1983, it is a comedic gem starring two of Hollywood's most beloved actors, Walter Matthau and Robin Williams. The film is noted for its humor that skillfully balances personal tragedy with comedic absurdity, making it a classic comedy of the 80s.

Directed by Michael Ritchie and written by Michael Leeson, The Survivors is set against the backdrop of a society gripped by economic downturn and escalating street crimes. Matthau and Williams play Donald Quinelle and Sonny Paluso, respectively, two ordinary New Yorkers who lose their jobs on the same day due to the harsh economic reality of the time. The pairing of Matthau and Williams shines throughout the movie, delivering perfectly timed dialogue and showcasing their acting skills that blend well within their defined roles.

Donald is a blue-collar worker who finds himself out of a job when his gas station blows up, while Sonny is an executive who gets fired from his high-profile job. As luck would have it, the two meet at a diner where they end up foiling a robbery attempt. This incident leads them to a survivalist training camp in Vermont under the training of an eccentric survivalist played by James Wainwright.

Their time at the survivalist camp shapes the core of the movie as Sonny and Donald learn how to survive in the wilderness, preparing themselves for a possible societal breakdown. Their eccentric and sometimes outrageous survival strategies are hilarious, making for great comedy and situational humor.

Throughout the film Sonny and Donald’s relationship oscillates between camaraderie and competition as they each struggle with their new realities. Matthau, in his characteristic deadpan style, provides a contrast to Williams’ manic energy, creating a comedic dynamic that is both charming and hilarious.

Robin Williams is in his element as Donald Quinelle. His frantic energy and fast-paced snappy dialogue provide much of the laughs throughout the movie. Williams' agile comedic abilities are on full display, reminding viewers of the actor's unparalleled gift for making people laugh. On the other hand, Walter Matthau exudes his characteristic charm in the role of Sonny. His world-weary demeanor and astute comic timing provide a wonderful counterpoint to Williams' enthusiastic histrionics.

The movie is not just about the duo's survival journey; it also offers a satirical look at the economic challenges and societal changes that are happening around them. The film takes a biting but humorous look at the obsession with survivalism that gripped America in the late 70s and early 80s during the height of the Cold War. The strange and hilarious ways the characters choose to confront the uncertainties of their world, coupled with the witty dialogue, makes The Survivors a comedy of its time.

Survivors, The pokes fun at societal paranoia and delivers laughs by placing regular individuals in wild and ridiculous situations. The movie taps into the absurdity of survivalist mentality, but does so with wit and sharp humor. Beyond the laughter, the film also offers a commentary on toxic masculinity, paranoia, consumerism, and social inequalities.

In all, The Survivors, despite its outward hilarity, is a well-crafted dark comedy that offers much more than just laughs. It is a timely commentary on societal values and the economic realities of its time. It is also a showcase for the tremendous acting talents of Williams and Matthau, whose terrific performances are a large part of what makes this film a humorous viewing experience. The excellent casting, coupled with the sharp, clever script, makes The Survivors an entertaining, thought-provoking, and memorable classic comedy of the 1980s.