Surrender (released in theaters on October 9, 1987) sparkles onto the screen as a lively, eccentric romantic comedy that explores the hilarious perils of trust, wealth, and modern dating in late-1980s Nevada. The story centers on Sean Stein (Michael Caine), a world-famous, wealthy novelist who has grown cynical about love after losing most of his fortune in two disastrous divorces.
Desperate to avoid another opportunistic partner, Sean attends a charity gala where he meets Daisy Morgan (Sally Field), a quirky, struggling novelty artist who is perpetually stuck in a relationship with Marty (Steve Guttenberg), an attractive yet self-centered and unfaithful attorney.
Their lives collide unexpectedly during a bizarre hostage situation at the gala, where Sean and Daisy are bound together, robbed, and left stranded in their underwear.
Bonds formed in chaos lead Sean to fall head over heels for Daisy. However, terrified that she might only want him for his money, Sean decides to conceal his immense wealth, pretending to be a penniless, struggling writer.
Daisy, equally weary of men using her and recovering from her breakup with Marty, welcomes Sean’s modest lifestyle and falls for him for who he truly is.
Complications multiply as Sean’s cynical best friend Jay (Peter Boyle) continuously urges him to reveal the truth, while colorful associates including Hedy (Iman), Ace (Jackie Cooper), Ronnie (Julie Kavner), and Joyce (Louise Lasser) add further chaos to the deception.
As Marty attempts to win Daisy back and Sean’s charade becomes increasingly difficult to maintain, Sean must risk everything to discover if love can survive absolute honesty.
Sally Field in Surrender (Photo/Warner Bros.)
Reception for Surrender
Surrender grossed $2.3 million on its opening weekend, finishing fifth at the box office.
The film would gross $5.7 million in its theatrical run.
Roger Ebert gave Surrender two out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
Surrender‘s legacy endures as a charming, underappreciated gem of late-1980s romantic comedy cinema, celebrated for its razor-sharp satire of prenup anxiety and relationship trust.
Two-time Oscar winners Field and Caine displayed delightful comedic chemistry, anchored by Steve Guttenberg’s hilariously unctuous turn and Boyle’s sharp-tongued supporting role.
Writer-director Jerry Belson’s clever screenplay delivered a refreshing, screwball-esque take on class and romance, while memorable appearances by supermodel Iman, Cooper (in his final film role), Kavner, and Lasser provided rich ensemble flavor.
Surrender is remembered as a lighthearted, star-powered time capsule.
