Detailed Summary
Neal’s Thanksgiving Trip
Neal Page (Steve Martin), a high-strung marketing executive, is trying to get home to Chicago for Thanksgiving. After a business meeting in New York, he encounters a series of travel mishaps that delay his journey.
The First Encounter with Del
At the airport, Neal meets Del Griffith (John Candy), a talkative and clumsy shower curtain ring salesman. Del inadvertently causes Neal to lose his cab in New York, setting the stage for their comedic misadventures.
The Plane Ride
Neal’s flight to Chicago is diverted to Wichita, Kansas, due to a snowstorm. Neal and Del end up sharing a hotel room, where their contrasting personalities clash hilariously. Neal’s frustration grows as Del’s cheerful disposition and annoying habits grate on him.
Misadventures on the Road
The duo decides to travel by train, which breaks down, forcing them to take a bus. Along the way, they experience a series of mishaps, including a car rental mix-up and a fiery car wreck. Despite the chaos, they slowly begin to bond.
The Motel Incident
In a memorable scene, the pair share a motel bed, leading to a series of comic misunderstandings. Neal’s patience is tested to the limit, but Del’s genuine kindness and optimism begin to win him over.
The Climactic Journey
Neal and Del finally secure a rental car, but their journey is fraught with more obstacles, including driving on the wrong side of the highway and having their car catch fire. Despite the disasters, the two men grow closer and develop a mutual respect.
Thanksgiving Reunion
In the end, Neal makes it home in time for Thanksgiving, but he realizes Del has nowhere to go. Feeling sympathy for Del, Neal invites him to join his family for the holiday, showing how their journey has changed him.
Movie Ending
The film concludes with Neal bringing Del to his home for Thanksgiving. Del reveals that his wife has passed away, explaining his reluctance to talk about his home life. The final scene shows Del warmly welcomed into Neal’s family, highlighting the true spirit of the holiday.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, “Planes, Trains & Automobiles” does not have any post-credits scenes.
Type of Movie
This film is a comedy, often considered a holiday classic, with elements of road trip and buddy film genres.
Cast
- Steve Martin as Neal Page
- John Candy as Del Griffith
- Laila Robins as Susan Page
- Michael McKean as State Trooper
- Kevin Bacon as Taxi Racer
- Dylan Baker as Owen
Film Music and Composer
The film’s music is composed by Ira Newborn. The soundtrack features a mix of original scores and popular songs, including Paul Young’s “Everytime You Go Away,” which plays a significant role in the film’s emotional moments.
Filming Locations
- Chicago, Illinois: Neal’s home and final destination.
- New York City, New York: Where Neal’s journey begins.
- Wichita, Kansas: The diversion point that starts Neal and Del’s road trip.
- St. Louis, Missouri: Another key stop on their journey.
These locations provide a realistic backdrop for the cross-country trip, highlighting the varied landscapes and urban environments.
Awards and Nominations
While not a major award-winner, the film received critical acclaim and remains a beloved classic. John Candy won the American Comedy Award for Funniest Actor in a Motion Picture.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- The film was inspired by writer-director John Hughes’s own experience of a flight diverted from New York to Chicago.
- John Candy and Steve Martin improvised many of their scenes, adding to the film’s spontaneous and natural humor.
- The iconic “Those aren’t pillows!” scene was improvised by Candy and Martin.
Inspirations and References
- Personal Experience: John Hughes drew from his own travel nightmare for the film’s plot.
- Buddy Films: The film takes inspiration from classic buddy comedies, focusing on the dynamic between two contrasting characters.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
- Several deleted scenes explore more of Neal and Del’s misadventures, including a lengthy scene in a train station. These scenes were cut to maintain the film’s pacing and focus.
Book Adaptations and Differences
The film is not based on a book but has inspired novelizations and other media exploring its themes.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Airport Chaos: Neal’s frantic race to catch a cab in New York City.
- Hotel Bed: The hilarious and awkward scene where Neal and Del share a bed.
- Burning Car: The duo’s car catches fire, adding to their travel woes.
Iconic Quotes
- “Those aren’t pillows!” – Neal Page
- “You’re going the wrong way!” – Motorist
- “I like me. My wife likes me.” – Del Griffith
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- Del’s trunk, which he carries throughout the film, symbolizes his emotional baggage and past.
- The film’s various travel mishaps highlight the unpredictability of travel during the holiday season.
Trivia
- The movie was shot in just 85 days, with a budget of $30 million.
- Kevin Bacon’s cameo was a nod to his role in another John Hughes film, “She’s Having a Baby.”
- Steve Martin and John Candy formed a genuine friendship during filming.
Why Watch?
“Planes, Trains & Automobiles” is a heartwarming and hilarious journey that captures the essence of holiday travel chaos and unexpected friendships. Steve Martin and John Candy’s chemistry and comedic timing make it a timeless classic.
Director’s Other Movies
- The Breakfast Club (1985)
- Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)
- Uncle Buck (1989)
- Home Alone (1990)
- Curly Sue (1991)
Recommended Films for Fans
- Uncle Buck (1989)
- Due Date (2010)
- The Great Outdoors (1988)
- Dutch (1991)
