Trains, Planes, and Automobiles: A Hilarious, Heartfelt Journey (1987)

Trains, Planes, and Automobiles: A Hilarious, Heartfelt Journey

John Hughes. John Candy. Steve Martin. If those names alone don’t immediately spark a sense of nostalgic joy and anticipation, then prepare for a cinematic revelation. Because Trains, Planes and Automobiles, with its perfect blend of uproarious comedy and surprisingly poignant moments, isn’t just a great holiday movie; it’s a timeless masterpiece that deserves a flawless 10 out of 10.

From the opening scene, where Neal Page (Steve Martin) is subjected to a particularly brutal encounter with his marketing firm’s artistic director, you know you’re in for something special. Martin, in his quintessential uptight persona, is a masterclass in controlled frustration, and his simmering rage is the perfect foil for the irrepressible, albeit often infuriating, Del Griffith (John Candy). Candy, as the lovable, larger-than-life shower curtain ring salesman, is a force of nature. His boundless optimism and relentless storytelling, even when faced with escalating disaster, are the beating heart of the film. The chemistry between Martin and Candy is nothing short of electric; it’s a comedic partnership that feels both organic and legendary.

The premise is simple: Neal just wants to get home to Chicago for Thanksgiving to be with his family. What ensues is a cascading series of travel mishaps that would break a lesser man. A blizzard grounds planes, a “delightful” train ride turns into a freezing ordeal, a rental car is spectacularly destroyed, and an unfortunate encounter with a dog adds a surreal touch to their increasingly desperate journey. Each obstacle is met with escalating absurdity, and Hughes’s writing is exceptionally sharp, delivering punchlines that land with surgical precision. The sheer inventiveness of their misfortunes, coupled with the actors’ impeccable comedic timing, creates a laugh riot that never feels forced or repetitive.

But where Trains, Planes and Automobiles truly elevates itself from a mere comedy to something truly special is in its unexpected depth. Beneath the slapstick and the witty banter lies a surprisingly resonant exploration of human connection, the frustrations of modern life, and the true meaning of family and home. As Neal’s meticulously planned trip unravels, so too does his carefully constructed composure. He’s forced to rely on the very man he initially despises, and through their shared ordeal, a genuine, albeit grudging, friendship blossoms. The film brilliantly showcases how shared adversity can forge unexpected bonds and reveal the best (and sometimes the worst) in people.

The supporting cast also shines. Kevin Bacon’s brief but memorable role and the various quirky characters they encounter along their journey, add further layers of humor and relatability. Hughes’s keen eye for capturing the quirks and absurdities of everyday life is on full display, making even the most outlandish situations feel grounded in a recognizable reality.

What truly solidifies this film’s perfect score is its emotional arc. Just when you’re laughing until your sides ache, Hughes throws in a moment of genuine pathos. Neal’s eventual realization of what truly matters, and the quiet, profound act of kindness he extends to Del, are incredibly moving. The film doesn’t shy away from the underlying loneliness and longing that can accompany the holiday season, making the eventual sense of arrival and connection all the more impactful.

Trains, Planes and Automobiles is a film that understands the chaos and the joy of the human experience. It’s a testament to the power of a well-told story, unforgettable characters, and the kind of comedy that leaves you both breathless with laughter and with a lump in your throat. It’s a movie that has only grown in stature and affection over the years, a true holiday classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. For its perfect execution, its enduring humor, and its surprising emotional resonance, Trains, Planes and Automobiles is, without a doubt, a 10 out of 10.

I Give This Movie 10 Out of 10 Stars