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 curtain ring salesman, Del Griffith.
Planes, Trains and Automobiles is a 1987 comedy directed by John Hughes, starring Steve Martin as Neal Page and John Candy as Del Griffith. The film follows Neal, a marketing executive, as he attempts to return home to Chicago for Thanksgiving. His journey is complicated when a snowstorm causes flight cancellations, leading him to team up with Del, a talkative and well-meaning shower curtain ring salesman. The two embark on a series of misadventures involving planes, trains, and automobiles, each mode of transportation presenting new challenges. Despite their contrasting personalities, Neal and Del form an unlikely friendship, learning valuable lessons about empathy, patience, and human connection along the way.
Themes in Planes, Trains and Automobiles
The film explores several key themes:
- Friendship and Human Connection: At its core, the movie highlights the unexpected bond that forms between two strangers during a challenging journey, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding.
- Perseverance and Resilience: Neal and Del’s determination to reach their destination despite numerous setbacks showcases the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity.
- The Holiday Spirit: Set during Thanksgiving, the film underscores themes of gratitude, family, and the warmth of the holiday season.
Impact of Planes, Trains and Automobiles
Upon its release, Planes, Trains and Automobiles received critical acclaim for its blend of humor and heartfelt moments. Roger Ebert praised the film, stating that it is perfectly cast and soundly constructed, and all else flows naturally.
The film has since become a holiday classic, often cited for its portrayal of the Thanksgiving spirit and its enduring appeal.
7 Reasons to Watch Planes, Trains and Automobiles
- Impeccable Chemistry Between Leads:
- Steve Martin and John Candy deliver standout performances, with their contrasting characters creating a dynamic and engaging on-screen partnership.
- Their interactions provide both comedic moments and emotional depth, making their journey compelling to watch.
- Masterful Direction by John Hughes:
- Hughes expertly balances humor with heartfelt moments, crafting a narrative that resonates with audiences.
- His direction ensures that the film remains engaging and emotionally impactful throughout.
- Relatable Storyline:
- The plot centers on the universal theme of holiday travel mishaps, making it relatable to a wide audience.
- The challenges faced by the characters mirror real-life travel frustrations, adding authenticity to the story.
- Blend of Comedy and Heart:
- The film skillfully combines slapstick humor with touching moments, creating a balanced and enjoyable viewing experience.
- This blend appeals to both fans of comedy and those seeking a more heartfelt narrative.
- Memorable Supporting Characters:
- The film features a cast of supporting characters who add depth and humor to the story.
- These characters enrich the narrative, providing additional layers to the film’s themes.
- Timeless Themes:
- Themes of friendship, perseverance, and the holiday spirit are explored, offering valuable life lessons.
- These themes remain relevant, making the film enjoyable for audiences across generations.
- Critical Acclaim:
- The film has received positive reviews from critics, including a 93% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
- Its acclaim underscores its quality and enduring appeal.
How Will You Feel After Watching Planes, Trains and Automobiles?
After watching Planes, Trains and Automobiles, you will feel a mix of laughter and warmth. The film’s humor, stemming from the endless travel mishaps, will have you laughing out loud, while the deeper emotional moments will leave you feeling touched. You’ll likely appreciate the unexpected friendships that can form under difficult circumstances and feel a sense of camaraderie with the characters.
The movie will also evoke a sense of gratitude, especially around the holiday season, as it highlights the importance of family, human connection, and the resilience needed to navigate life’s challenges. You may find yourself reflecting on your own experiences with travel, family, and the kindness of strangers, making it a perfect watch to brighten your mood.
