Planes, Trains & Automobiles

The 1987 comedy was written, produced, and directed by legendary filmmaker John Hughes. It was a departure from his typical teen angst movies, focusing instead on adult themes of family and frustration.

The film stars Steve Martin as the high-strung marketing executive Neal Page and John Candy as the lovable but infuriating shower curtain ring salesman Del Griffith. Their dynamic chemistry anchors the chaotic Thanksgiving travel plot.

One of the most famous scenes is the motel mix-up, famously featuring Steve Martin's character exclaiming, "Those aren't pillows!" when their arms brush against each other in bed. It remains a masterclass in comedic timing and embarrassment.

Neal and Del are forced to travel together after a flight diversion leaves them stranded without their luggage in the freezing Midwest. Del repeatedly ruins Neal's attempts to get home to Chicago for Thanksgiving, though they ultimately bond over their shared misfortune.