Did you know that one of the most beloved Thanksgiving movies almost starred completely different actors? Planes, Trains, and Automobiles has become a holiday staple, but its journey to the screen is filled with surprising twists and untold stories. From its origins to its controversial rating, here’s a deep dive into 7 stunning secrets about this 1987 classic—plus a few extras that might just change how you watch it next Thanksgiving.
1. A True Story of Travel Woes
Before John Hughes became the king of 80s teen comedies, he was a marketing executive—just like Steve Martin’s character, Neal Page. Hughes’s own nightmare journey from New York to Chicago inspired the film. Diverted flights, unexpected layovers, and a four-day ordeal? Yep, that’s all Hughes. Talk about writing what you know! But here’s where it gets controversial: Was Hughes’s real-life frustration the only inspiration, or did he borrow from other travel tales? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
2. The Lost Four-Hour Epic
The version we love clocks in at a tight 92 minutes, but Hughes’s original vision was a sprawling 4+ hour saga. With a 145-page script and over 600,000 feet of film shot, most of it ended up on the cutting room floor. Imagine a Planes, Trains, and Automobiles miniseries! And this is the part most people miss: Would the longer version have deepened the emotional connection, or was the final cut perfect as is?
3. Kevin Bacon’s Blink-and-You’ll-Miss-It Moments
Kevin Bacon’s cameo in the opening scene is iconic—no words, just pure competitive energy as he races Neal for a cab. But did you catch his second appearance? Listen closely when Neal’s wife watches TV in bed. That’s Bacon’s voice from She’s Having a Baby, another Hughes film. It’s a subtle Easter egg that ties the Hughes universe together.
4. No, It’s Not the Home Alone House
Neal’s suburban Chicago home looks eerily similar to the McAllister house in Home Alone, but they’re not the same. The houses are in neighboring towns, though, so Neal and Kevin could’ve crossed paths in the Hughes-verse. Fun fan theory or overthinking it? You decide.
5. The Almost-Different Cast
Steve Martin and John Candy are perfect as Neal and Del, but Hughes originally wanted Tom Hanks and John Travolta. Rick Moranis and John Goodman were also in the running. Can you picture it? We’re not so sure. But here’s where it gets controversial: Would the film have been as successful with a different cast? Share your take below!
6. The R-Rated Rant
This family-friendly comedy earned its R rating for one scene: Neal’s profanity-laced meltdown at the rental car counter. Steve Martin drops 17 f-bombs in 60 seconds, while Edie McClurg adds one more for good measure. Fun fact: McClurg improvised her entire phone conversation in that scene. But here’s the real question: Did the scene need to be so intense, or did it cross the line? Let’s debate!
7. Elton John’s Lost Theme Song
Elton John wrote a theme song for the movie, but it was never released. Paramount wanted ownership of the master recording, but John’s record label refused. The result? A missing piece of cinematic history. Imagine how different the film might have felt with an Elton John anthem. And this is the part most people miss: Could the song’s absence have been a blessing in disguise?
Bonus: The Unseen Chemistry
Martin and Candy’s on-screen friendship feels effortless, but their off-screen dynamic was just as special. Candy’s kindness and Martin’s humor created a bond that shines through every scene. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the magic behind the camera is just as important as what’s in front of it.
So, there you have it—7 secrets (and a few extras) about Planes, Trains, and Automobiles. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, this film’s behind-the-scenes stories add a whole new layer to its charm. But here’s the final question: What’s your favorite secret, and do you think the film would’ve been different with any of these alternate choices? Let’s hear it in the comments!