Reviewed by Jason LockardThere are not at lot of Thanksgiving themed movies out there, and that is a shame. But there is one that I try to watch on TV every year. Steve Martin and John Candy in Plane Trains and Automobile. The film was written, produced and directed by John Hughes, known for his teen and family films. This one however is much more adult. As I said I have watched this movie off of TV for a lot of years and a few month ago I found a copy on DVD for only $2. So I decided to add it to my collection!
The film follows Neal Page (Steve Martin) an uptight control freak advertising executive who is trying to get home to Chicago in time to spend Thanksgiving with his wife and kids. In route to home a freak snowstorm grounds him in Kansas where he meets salesmen Del Griffith (John Candy), who seems to never shut-up. As they are stranded they come up with plan after plan to try to get home with disastrous but hilarious outcomes.
The film is a hilarious screwball comedy! I have to say though this is no way shape or form one for teens or kids. God's name is cured 7 times in this film and at about 49 minutes in Steve Martin goes on a tirade and drops 18 F-bombs. These profanities ruined the film for me. The TV version you get the comedy without the profanity.
The story is funny and full of heart. I have to say the highlight is the performance of John Candy. He shows an amazing range of acting ability that he never got a real chance to explore. He showed so much emotion in certain scenes and I think he could have been an amazing dramatic actor if given the chance.
The special "Those aren't pillows! Edition" DVD release brings us the film in widescreen format with 5.1 surround sound. But the bonus feature are where it's at! They include, featurettes, Getting there is half the fun, A Tribute to John Candy and John Hughes for adults. Not only that but you do get a deleted scene "Airplane Food".
This is a very good DVD release. I just wished the film was a little more family friendly. You may just want to watch this one on TV. But if you would like to get a copy of this DVD release you can get it on Amazon.com.
Moral Rating: adult situations and extreme profanity
Audience: adults only
Genre: comedy / drama
Length: 1 Hour 32 Minutes
Movie Rating: B-
DVD Released: 2009
DVD Rating: A
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