“Planes, Trains and Automobiles” is a wild ride. Two unlikely companions, a buttoned-up businessman and a chatty shower curtain ring salesman, are forced to traverse the country together through countless obstacles. Their journey is like a rollercoaster: full of unexpected twists and turns, highs and lows, laughter and tears. They face everything from canceled flights to stolen money to a burnt out car. Along the way they learn about each other, despite initial reservations. It’s a tale of friendship forged in the fires of frustration and adversity – a true classic road trip movie that will make you both laugh and cry.
Review
Have you ever been stranded in a foreign city or stuck in an airport for hours on end? If so, you may be able to relate to one of the most classic travel movies of all time: “Planes, Trains and Automobiles.” This movie from the year 1987 is a timeless masterpiece that continues to entertain audiences today with its brilliant cast, witty script, and hilarious scenes. Directed by John Hughes and starring Steve Martin and John Candy, this film follows the journey of two strangers who form an unlikely bond after being forced to travel together during the Thanksgiving holiday.
The story begins when marketing executive Neal Page (Steve Martin) has his flight diverted from New York City to St. Louis due to bad weather. He meets Del Griffith (John Candy), a talkative and clumsy shower curtain ring salesman who seems to be everywhere Neal goes. Despite Neal’s best efforts, he is unable to escape from Del’s company as they are forced to embark on a journey across the country together.
As their travel woes worsen, Neal eventually realizes that he has no choice but to team up with Del if he wants any chance of getting home in time for Thanksgiving. The two men find themselves racing against time as they try every mode of transportation available – including planes, trains, and automobiles – in a desperate attempt to make it home before the holiday festivities begin.
One of the reasons why this movie struck such a chord with audiences is because it perfectly captures the frustrations and humor that come with traveling long distances. The characters’ struggles feel authentic thanks in part to John Hughes’ personal experience with being stuck in airports due to blizzards – which served as inspiration for several scenes.
The script for “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” is both witty and heart-warming. Some memorable quotes include: “Those aren’t pillows!” or “You’re going the wrong way!”, which have been repeated by fans countless times. The dialogue between the two main characters is also a highlight, as their banter provides many comedic moments throughout the film.
The chemistry between Steve Martin and John Candy is flawless. Both actors bring their own unique style to the film, with Martin playing the straight-laced businessman and Candy portraying a lovable but slightly annoying character with a heart of gold. Their contrasting personalities make for a perfect comedic duo, and their on-screen chemistry has become legendary.
The original score by Ira Newborn is another standout feature of this movie. The music mixes classic jazz with contemporary sounds that perfectly fits each scene’s mood. Del Griffith’s signature song “I Like Me” is an instant classic that stays in your head long after you’ve seen the movie.
“Planes, Trains and Automobiles” was not without its challenges during production. During filming, John Candy suffered from severe migraines and had to be hospitalized several times. Additionally, the scene in which Steve Martin’s character hits John Candy’s face with his handbag took over 60 takes to get right! Despite these hurdles, the cast and crew persevered to deliver one of the best road trip comedies of all time.
This comedy classic has been celebrated by audiences and critics alike since its release in 1987. It received positive reviews from critics who praised its direction, script, performances, and humor. Additionally, it grossed over $49 million at the box office making it one of Hughes’ most commercially successful films.
Over time “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” has become even more popular thanks to home video releases over the years. These days it is easier than ever to revisit this comedy classic whenever you need a good laugh.
In conclusion, “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” is a timeless masterpiece that truly captures what it means to travel during desperate times. The exceptional cast delivers hilarious performances that still hold up today, and the memorable quotes and iconic scenes have made it an all-time favorite for many. If you’re looking for a film that will make you laugh out loud and touch your heart at the same time, be sure to check this one out – it’s truly a classic.
Technical Data
- Runtime : 93
- Release : 1987-11-26
- Genre : Comedy
- Cast : Steve Martin as Neal Page, John Candy as Del Griffith, Laila Robins as Susan Page, Michael McKean as State Trooper, Dylan Baker as Owen
- Crew : Harold Michelson as Art Direction, April Ferry as Costume Design, Michael Chinich as Executive Producer, Donald Peterman as Director of Photography, Toni-Ann Walker as Hair Designer
- Popularity 16.939
- Budget : $15,000,000
- Revenue : $49,500,000
- Company : Paramount, Hughes Entertainment
- Summary : An irritable marketing executive, Neal Page, is heading home to Chicago for Thanksgiving when a number of delays force him to travel with a well meaning but overbearing shower ring curtain salesman, Del Griffith.
- Tagline : What he really wanted was to spend Thanksgiving with his family. What he got was three days with the turkey.
