Cast
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Steve Martin
as Neal Page
John Candy
as Del Griffith
Laila Robins
as Susan Page
Michael McKean
as State Trooper
Dylan Baker
as Owen
Kevin Bacon
as Taxi Racer
Olivia Burnette
as Marti Page
Carol Bruce
as Joy Page
Diana Douglas
as Peg
Martin Ferrero
as Motel Clerk
Larry Hankin
as Doobie
Richard Herd
as Walt
Susan Kellermann
as Waitress
Matthew Lawrence
as Little Neal
Edie McClurg
as Car Rental Agent
Crew
Director
- John Hughes
Producer
- John Hughes
Reviews
John Chard
How about those Bears?
Planes, Trains and Automobiles is written, produced and directed by John Hughes. It stars Steve Martin and John Candy. Music is by Ira Newborn and cinematography by Donald Peterman.
Marketing man Neal Page (Martin) is in a last ditch dash to get from New York to Chicago in time for the family Thanksgiving dinner. Unfortunately obstacles halt his every advancement, the biggest of which is the man who fate has decreed is his companion for the trip; Del Griffith (Candy), a larger than life shower ring salesman whose outlook on life is considerably different to Neal's.
If you haven't seen it yet? Then what is your excuse? You owe it to yourself to let this wonderful film into your life. John Hughes pitches two of America's then biggest comedy stars together and puts them on a trip where everything that can go wrong, does! Cue chaos with the methods of transport in the title. Yet as funny as the mishaps are, and they are, with a number of events being things many of us can associate with, they would be nothing without the expert characterisations. Both as performed by a never better Martin and Candy, but also as written by Hughes.
Neal Page is anal retentive, snobbish and cynicism in a suit, Del Griffith appears oafish, over talkative and comes bedecked in cheapo winter wear. As time, options and sanity start to ebb away, desperation takes a hold and a surprising co-dependency starts to form. Something that beautifully sets us up for a finale that is as touching as it is genuinely surprising. It has mature comedy characterisations for the grown ups and chaotic actions for the younger crowd. Perfect and it should be prescribed at least once a year for a pick me up. 9/10
Jun 10, 2019
r96sk
Entertaining 1987 flick from John Hughes.
<em>'Planes, Trains and Automobiles'</em> is an enjoyable watch, pure and simple. The pairing of Steve Martin and John Candy is a great one, with both holding their own and bringing a lot of humour to events. Away from those two, you also have interesting bit part roles for Kevin Bacon and Michael McKean.
The plot is one that could've got repetitive, but the film keeps it interesting for the whole 93 minutes. I will say, not that it's an all that noteworthy thing, that it has more (overly?) dramatic moments than I was anticipating, especially at the end. I was expecting a flat-out comedy, but the additional heart fits in well enough.
It's a film 100% worth watching, if only for the humour of the two leads; there are some funny gags in there.
Dec 30, 2020
Thematic Analysis
Planes, Trains and Automobiles represents a fascinating example of Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director John Hughes brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1987, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Planes, Trains and Automobiles took approximately 13 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $15.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 93 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 121 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The musical score contains over 58 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1987, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Planes, Trains and Automobiles shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Meet the Robinsons, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Planes, Trains and Automobiles subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Mr. Bean's Holiday and TMNT explore similar territory, Planes, Trains and Automobiles stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 26, 1987
- Runtime: 1h 33m
- Budget: $15,000,000
- Revenue: $49,500,000
Where to Watch
