Planes, Trains & Automobiles

Main Plot

"Planes, Trains & Automobiles," directed by John Hughes, follows the misadventures of Neal Page, a high-strung marketing executive, as he desperately tries to get home to Chicago for Thanksgiving. His journey is fraught with a series of travel mishaps, beginning with a snowstorm that diverts his flight. Along the way, Neal reluctantly teams up with Del Griffith, a well-meaning but overly talkative shower curtain ring salesman. The mismatched pair face a series of comedic and frustrating obstacles, including canceled flights, train breakdowns, and car troubles. As they navigate these challenges, Neal's initial irritation with Del gradually gives way to an unexpected camaraderie. The film explores themes of patience, kindness, and the importance of human connection, ultimately delivering a heartwarming message about the true spirit of the holiday season.

Characters

• Steve Martin plays Neal Page, a stressed-out marketing executive desperately trying to get home for Thanksgiving, facing numerous travel mishaps alongside an eccentric salesman.
• John Candy plays Del Griffith, a talkative shower curtain ring salesman who helps Neal Page, a stressed marketing executive, navigate a chaotic journey home for Thanksgiving.
• Laila Robins plays Susan Page, Neal Page's wife, who anxiously awaits his return home for Thanksgiving amidst his travel misadventures.

Ending Explained

In the conclusion of "Planes, Trains & Automobiles," directed by John Hughes, Neal Page (Steve Martin) finally reaches his home in Chicago after a tumultuous journey with Del Griffith (John Candy). Throughout their misadventures, Neal grows increasingly frustrated with Del's bumbling yet well-meaning nature. However, as they part ways at the train station, Neal reflects on their time together and realizes Del's loneliness. Neal returns to find Del still sitting at the station, and Del confesses that his wife has been dead for eight years and he has no home to go to. Touched by Del's vulnerability, Neal invites him to spend Thanksgiving with his family. The film ends with Neal and Del arriving at Neal's home, where Del is warmly welcomed. This conclusion underscores themes of empathy, companionship, and the importance of human connection, transforming Neal's initial irritation into genuine friendship and compassion.