Synopsis: Inspired partly by Studs Terkel's oral history Hard Times and partly by playwright Arthur Miller's own recollections, the story is set at the beginning of the Depression and is told through a vast array of characters. When the stock market crashes, the well-to-do Baumler family loses everything and are forced to move from their plush penthouse apartment to the less-attractive Brooklyn digs of Mrs. Baumler's sister. Twelve-year-old son Lee Baumler hits the road to find out how others are coping with the Long National Nightmare. Other experiences are told of businessmen like Jesse Livermore and William Durant, who lose their fortunes, while more successful entrepreneurs like Arthur Huntington survive, prosper, and must struggle with guilt.

Cast:
Darren McGavin ... Older Arthur Huntington
David Strathairn ... Young Arthur Huntington
Felton Perry ... Clarence
Mary McDonnell ... Rose Baumler
Loren Dean ... Young Lee Baumler
John Randolph ... Older Lee Baumler
John Rubinstein ... Moe Baumler
Alex Bookston ... Frank
Joanna Miles ... Fanny
Ivette Soler ... Lucille
Eddie Bracken ... Grandpa
Jim Dale ... Ted Quinn
Kelly Preston ... Diana Marley
Wyatt Knight ... Clayton
Shae D'Lyn ... Young Doris
Estelle Parsons ... Older Doris

Favorite Quotes:
• Jesse Livermore: "My God, don't you believe in anything anymore?"
Arthur: "Not much."
Jesse Livermore: "Well, I can certainly understand that, although I can't say I admire it."

• Arthur: "Stay with me."
Diana: "You paid me, sugar. Of course I'm going to stay with you."
Arthur: "You know what I mean."

• "It's as if I were walking off the earth." - Arthur

Notes:
• Though they did not share any scenes together, The American Clock marked the fourth reunion for David and co-star Mary McDonnell. The two had previously co-starred in Matewan, Sneakers and Passion Fish, and would work together again in Evidence of Blood.
• Co-star Estelle Parsons would later direct David in the Broadway play Salome.