Planes, Trains and Automobiles




I like me.

It is ironic that the best movie that John Hughes made wasn't a teen movie. Heck, it wasn't even an 80's movie.

Planes, Trains and Automobiles is simple in its approach. Everything that can go wrong does. It's a comic routine that can be funny, but here it is a trip to hysterical. The plot is simple enough as well. Neal Page (Steve Martin) is on his way home for Thanksgiving. He's your typical businessman that works in New York and has a family he wants to see in Chicago. The only problem is everything from delayed flights to ripped up car tickets happen on the way. Only worsening matters, Del Griffith (John Candy), is along for the ride. An annoying shower curtain ring salesman, Neal can't get rid of him no matter how hard he tries.

The jokes don't get old. This is probably my favorite comedy of all time. Hughes takes the traveling nightmare genre to a whole new level. It's more a triumph in script writing than anything.

But this movie wouldn't be half of what it is without the performances. Both Martin and Candy were never better. They bring life to stereotypical characters in a way that you can't help but caring for them. Martin gives the friendly but cynical Neal a soul in his quest for his turkey and his journey to understanding. But it's John Candy who shines. He fits the role perfectly, making Del irritating but heartwarming. The way that they overcome their obstacles is more than funny, as this unlikely pair goes from one mishap to another.

If you haven't seen this movie, rent it. I strongly recommend it as a first rate comedy that doesn't come along often. Whether it's the music capturing the perfect mood in the hilarious bedroom scene or meeting Owen, it's an earnestly frantic and tender trip through the modern transportation system.



-The Gnome