Planes, Trains and Automobiles

Happy Early Thanksgiving fellow movie goers from around the globe. Today’s review is an ‘80s classic. Set during Thanksgiving, an advertising executive named, Neal Page is thrilled to see his family in Chicago. Just as he leaves New York City, his flight’s been cancelled to due a blizzard. With no other choice, he embarks on a road trip with Del Griffith. A quirky shower curtain ring salesman. As they get to know one other hilarity ensues.

Released 1987, (same year Lethal Weapon came out) it received praise from critics and movie goers alike. In addition to positive reception, it was a box office success. Ryan Reynolds produced a documentary, “I Like Me.” It’s about John Candy’s life and career. Now streaming on Amazon Prime. If you’re a fan of the late comedian’s work, I highly recommend it.

Today’s review contains no SPOILERS whatsoever. I’m giving you fellas and chance to see this gem.

Warm & Cold Aspects

Warm: Steve Martin & John Candy both did a terrific job for their respective performances.

John Hughes did a great job directing. He also wrote and produced the movie.

Random Thought: I always watch Planes Trains and Automobiles every November along with the Rocky series and 007 movies as a Thanksgiving tradition.

Fun Facts

Both Mr. Martin & Mr. Candy became good friends during filming.
The pair mentioned Planes, Trains and Automobiles as their favorite movie of their careers.
Ryan Reynolds confirmed Planes, Trains and Automobiles is one of his favorite movies. He presented it on Turner Classic Movies. This movie made it to the big leagues as one of the classics that stands the test of time. A really big deal. Ryan also mentioned “Deadpool and Wolverine is influenced by the movie.
A 4K Ultra HD Blu-Ray features 75 minutes of deleted scenes and restored footage. If you own a copy, congratulations.

Funny Moments made me laugh. My favorite part is “You’re going the wrong way” scene. It definitely earns Bonus Points for making me laugh so hard. Honorable Mention goes to “Those aren’t pillows!”

Cinematography’s shot in stable condition.

Chemistry between Neal & Del serves as the main highlight.

Pacing didn’t feel slow or fast for an hour-and-half long movie. I was hooked right from the get-go.

Character Development involving Neal & Del. As the movie progresses, they form an unlikely friendship.

Del’s “I Like Me” monologue displays Mr. Candy’s dramatic chops. It’s a darn shame he’s no longer with us. He would’ve been great in a Martin Scorsese film. The only dramatic movie appeared in was Oliver Stone’s “JFK.”

Kevin Bacon, Edie McClurg (Rooney’s secretary from Ferris Buller’s Day Off) & Ben Stein make cameo appearances.

A Plot Twist changes everything. Without giving too much away, it’s gonna make you cry.

A Post-Credits Scene is optional. Doesn’t set up a sequel.

Cold: The movie’s quite dated. If this were made today, Neal would’ve used an iPhone to download an app to go from Point A to Point B.

The Final Verdict: A-

Although dated, Planes, Trains and Automobiles remains as a classic. If you’re looking for something to watch around Thanksgiving, it’s a must-see movie that’ll make you laugh so hard.

Rest in Peace John Candy. Your legacy will never be forgotten.