Watch Planes, Trains & Automobiles

Planes, Trains & Automobiles is a classic American comedy film from 1987 directed by John Hughes, who is also known for classic coming-of-age films like The Breakfast Club and Ferris Bueller's Day Off. The film stars Steve Martin and John Candy, both of whom have become legendary comedic actors since the film's release. The movie follows the story of Neal Page (Steve Martin), a stressed-out advertising executive trying to get home to Chicago from New York City for Thanksgiving with his family. When his flight is canceled due to a snowstorm, he is forced to team up with an obnoxious, talkative shower curtain ring salesman named Del Griffith (John Candy) to try and make it home by any means necessary.

Over the course of the film, Neal and Del find themselves crammed onto trains, buses, and even in the back of a refrigerated truck, all in a desperate attempt to get home in time for Thanksgiving dinner. Along the way they face several setbacks, including lost luggage, run-ins with the law, and a series of hilarious misunderstandings that keep them from making it home.

As the duo travels together, the differences in their personalities become more and more apparent. Neal is uptight and easily irritated by Del's constant chatter, while Del is oblivious to Neal's frustration and is simply happy to have someone to talk to. Despite their differences, however, the two men find themselves forming an unlikely bond, and by the end of the film their friendship has blossomed into something unexpectedly heartwarming.

What makes Planes, Trains & Automobiles so memorable is the hilarious chemistry between Steve Martin and John Candy. Martin plays his usual straight-man role to perfection, letting Candy's over-the-top antics steal the show. Candy is at his best here, delivering a performance that is both uproarious and surprisingly touching.

Director John Hughes also deserves credit for the film's success. Known for his ability to blend humor with genuine emotion, Hughes captures the subtle moments of connection between Neal and Del that make their friendship feel so authentic. Despite its slapstick humor and wacky scenarios, Planes, Trains & Automobiles is ultimately a heartfelt story about two unlikely friends trying to make it home for the holidays.

In addition to Martin and Candy, the film features several other notable performances. Laila Robins plays Susan, a fellow passenger on one of Neal and Del's flights who becomes a love interest for Neal. Meanwhile, veteran character actor Edie McClurg steals the show in a brief but hilarious cameo as a car rental clerk who is completely bewildered by Neal and Del's antics.

Overall, Planes, Trains & Automobiles is a classic comedy that has stood the test of time. With its memorable performances, hilarious set pieces, and heartfelt message about the importance of friendship and kindness, it remains one of the defining films of the 1980s. Whether you're a fan of Steve Martin, John Candy, or just great comedy in general, this film is definitely worth checking out.

Planes, Trains & Automobiles is a 1987 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 32 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6 and a MetaScore of 72.