DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically or cytologically proven melanoma that is unresectable and regionally metastatic, or widely disseminated OR Histologically or cytologically proven non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that is locally advanced, unresectable, or metastatic Stage IIIA, IIIB, or IV Evidence of disease progression prior to study At least 1 bidimensionally measurable lesion The following are NOT considered measurable: previously irradiated lesions, ascites, pleural effusion, bone metastases, brain metastases, leptomeningeal disease, or an abdominal mass that can be palpated but not measured Melanoma patients whose only manifestation of disease is 1 of the following are NOT eligible: Lymphedema Pleural effusion Ascites CNS metastases Bone marrow infiltration Osteoblastic bone lesions