Relive the 80s magic with Planes, Trains & Automobiles, a heartfelt comedy that blends humor, chaos, and unforgettable charm.
Let’s take a magical trip back to the 80s. Picture this, it is the era of blockbuster films and big-name stars like John Candy and Steve Martin. It is a period of time that is filled with big hair, synthetic music, and some of the most iconic movies of the 20th century. It is within this backdrop that Planes, Trains & Automobiles was introduced to the world.
This 1987 comedy film was a full-on experience. It was chaotic, emotional, hilarious, and real. If you lived through the 80s or just have a soft spot for its classical films, then this story will wrap you up like a cozy Thanksgiving blanket. It is filled to the brim with laughter and a few unexpected tears. But, it is nevertheless pure 80s gold.
Of course, Planes, Trains & Automobiles, was not your typical slapstick comedy. Nor was it just another holiday feel-good flick. It was a bizarre yet brilliant cocktail of humor and heartache. And, it starred to the decade’s biggest comedy titans. In fact, the movie never would have been as popular if it weren’t for John Candy and Steve Martin. And, when you sit down to watch it with a friend you will understand.
Planes, Trains & Automobiles at a Glance
- Title: Planes, Trains & Automobiles
- Release Date: November 25, 1987
- Director: John Hughes
- Main Cast:
- Steve Martin as Neal Page
- John Candy as Del Griffith
- Genre: Comedy/Drama
- Runtime: 93 minutes
- Box Office Performance: Grossed $49.5 million in the U.S.
- Home Video: A VHS in the late 80s
Buckle Up for a Wild Ride on Planes, Trains & Automobiles
In this comedy film, Steve Martin plays Neal Page. He is a workaholic marketing executive who just wants to get home to Chicago for Thanksgiving dinner. Although this seems like a very simple task, a freak snowstorm completely derails his travel plans and forces him to team up with Del Griffith, a chatty and lovable shower curtain ring salesman played by John Candy.
Are you familiar with Murphy’s Law? Anything that can go wrong will go wrong? Well, this film follows Murphy’s Law to a T. There are travel disasters, canceled flights, missed trains, and broken-down automobiles. And, all of this is accompanied by an awkward motel state, misplaced wallets, and a never-ending string of hilariously unfortunate events.
Beneath all of the chaos, there is still a heartfelt story. As the two travel across the country to get home in time for the holidays, the bond between Neal and Del continues to grow. The story shows us that empathy can exist everywhere, and friendship can grow out of even the smallest experiences. And, all it takes is finding a little bit of common ground with someone who is absolutely nothing like you.
Why Planes, Trains & Automobiles is the Quintessential 80s Movie
The 80s were all about bold characters. And, blockbuster films of the decade featured larger-than-life scenarios. The same era that brought us Home Alone also brought us Planes, Trains & Automobiles. And yes, there is some contention whether there is any connection between the two films. After all, when Kate McAllister was unable to fly all the way back to Chicago, she managed to catch a ride with Gus Polinski and his band of merry men back to Chicago, the same exact neighborhood that was used in both films.
Steve Martin and John Candy: Comedy Gold
Let’s face it, Steve Martin had a unique skill with comedy. His deadpan delivery was perfectly matched with John Candy’s warmhearted chaos. Their chemistry was off the charts. And, every single seem shared a lesson on how opposites cannot only attract but thrive in chaos.
As you sit back and watch the film, pay close attention to the different scenes. You will simply enjoy the infamous car rental scene where Neil melts down and releases a profane tirade that is relatable to just about anyone who has ever had to deal with holiday travel nightmares.
The 80s Aesthetic
Long beyond the laughs, the movie itself captures the spirit of the decade. It was a time when airports were bustling, roadside motels were filled, and families spent the summer months traveling across the country. This was a time before the existence of GPS and smartphones. I remember the time perfectly, riding in the back of my father’s station wagon staring at the cars as they came towards us, and playing I Spy.
The Making of the Planes, Trains & Automobiles Magic
John Hughes was the man who brought us Planes, Trains & Automobiles and a number of excellent teen comedies throughout the decade. He had so much fun creating the movie, that the original film was more than three hours long. As a result, in order to keep it within the standard specs of the era, a lot of that ended up on the cutting room floor. But, the depth of the characters was not sacrificed and every single scene added a layer to Neal and Del’s journey.
The Thanksgiving Road Trip From Hell
Of course, we have to point out the fact that the filming wasn’t exactly smooth sailing. Just like the seams within the movie itself, the production team faced harsh weather conditions and logistical nightmares. After all, they had to continuously jump between real locations in St. Louis and Chicago. And, that snowy roadside scene in the film, those aren’t even real snowflakes. Although the actors were freezing their butts off, it had not snowed so they had to create a winter wonderland for the movie.
Why Planes, Trains & Automobiles Stick With Us
The 80s were all about feel-good entertainment. But this movie was more than just about feeling good. It wasn’t just another funny flick, because it had soul. There was a final twist in the film about Del’s back story that will even make you cry. Nevertheless, the film still stands as a Thanksgiving tradition for many families. And, it has set itself as a blueprint for future road trip comedies like Dumb and Dumber.
Reception and Legacy
With big-name stars like Steve Martin and John Candy, naturally, it was expected that the film would be embraced by audiences and critics alike. And over the years, the movie has continued to aid like a fine wine. Today, it is still considered one of the greatest comedies ever created, and it consistently pops up on the best of the 80s lists every single year.
FAQ: What You Might Be Wondering
Is Planes, Trains & Automobiles appropriate for kids?
For the most part, the movie is family-friendly. But, Neal is known to drop a few F-bombs throughout the film, which might make you reconsider watching it with the kids.
Is it based on a true story?
While the film itself was not based on any true stories, the writer and director drew inspiration from his own travel nightmares.
Where can I watch it?
Today, you can watch the movie I just about any streaming digital platform, and DVDs are still available at local department stores.
Why You Need This Movie in Your Life
Without question, Planes, Trains & Automobiles is a comedy film that will deliver on the laughs, tears, and nostalgia. It is a constant reminder that even the most frustrating journeys across the country can lead to more meaningful connections. And, isn’t that what life is all about? So, grab some popcorn, cozy up on the couch, and let John Candy and Steve Martin take you on one of the wildest Thanksgiving Road trips you’ll ever see.
