Planes, Trains & Automobiles is a classic comedy film directed by John Hughes, starring Steve Martin and John Candy. Released on Nov. 25, 1987, the film has become a beloved holiday favorite, thanks to its hilarious performances, witty script, and heartwarming story.
The film follows the misadventures of Neal Page (Martin), a high-strung advertising executive, as he attempts to travel home from New York City to Chicago for Thanksgiving with his family. His journey is derailed when he loses out in a foot race to a younger man (Kevin Bacon in a cameo) and is subsequently forced to share a series of unfortunate travel mishaps with Del Griffith (Candy), a boisterous and overly friendly shower curtain ring salesman.
Martin’s portrayal of the uptight and neurotic Neal is both funny and relatable. His deadpan delivery and physical comedy perfectly complement Candy’s larger-than-life performance as the endearingly obnoxious Del.
The duo’s chemistry is undeniable, and their comedic timing is impeccable.
Reception for Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Planes, Trains & Automobiles grossed $7 million on its opening weekend, in third place behind Three Men and a Baby starring Tom Selleck, Steve Guttenburg and Ted Danson ($10.4 million) and the re-release of Disney’s animated Cinderella ($7.2 million) and roughly $2 million ahead The Running Man starring Arnold Schwarzenegger ($5.4 million in its third weekend).
The movie would remain in the box office top 10 for seven weeks en route to a total gross of $49,5 million.
The film the film holds an approval rating of 92% on Rotten Tomatoes and at the time of its release, received “Two Thumbs Up” from Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert.
Legacy
Planes, Trains & Automobiles is a testament to the power of friendship and the importance of human connection.
Despite their vastly different personalities, Neal and Del form an unlikely bond, teaching each other valuable lessons about life and love.
The film’s heartwarming message, combined with its hilarious humor, makes it a timeless classic, especially around Thanksgiving Day.
