Castaway (1986): cast, story & where to watch
1986 · Film · ★ 6.4
Released in 1986, Castaway is a drama and adventure film directed by Nicolas Roeg, running about 117 minutes. “One Year on a Deserted Tropical Island. 'Wife' 20-30 needed to accompany man 35+. Write to Box 775 with details and evening phone number.” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. Middle-aged Gerald Kingsland advertises in a London paper for a female companion to spend a year with him on a desert island. The young Lucy Irving takes a chance on contacting him and after a couple of meetings they decide to go ahead. Once on the island things prove a lot less idyllic than in the movies, and gradually it becomes clear that it is Lucy who has the desire and the strength to try and see the year through.
Who’s in it. Castaway stars Oliver Reed as Gerald Kingsland, Amanda Donohoe as Lucy Irvine, Georgina Hale as Sister Saint Margaret and Frances Barber as Sister Saint Winifred, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 6.4/10, Castaway has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Castaway page.
If you liked it. Fans of Castaway tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Castaway (1986)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Castaway change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is Castaway worth watching?
- Castaway holds an audience score of 6.4 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy drama and adventure. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in Castaway?
- Castaway stars Oliver Reed, Amanda Donohoe, Georgina Hale, Frances Barber and Tony Rickards.
- When was Castaway released?
- Castaway was released in 1986, with a runtime of about 117 minutes.