Let me start by saying this: if you haven't watched 'Planes, Trains and Automobiles' in a while (or ever), you're missing out on one of the most perfect buddy comedies ever made. Steve Martin and John Candy are comedy gold together - their chemistry is electric from the first scene to the last.
The premise seems simple: two mismatched travelers trying to get home for Thanksgiving. But oh boy, what a journey it turns out to be! The way their characters play off each other - Martin's uptight Neal Page vs Candy's lovably annoying Del Griffith - creates non-stop laughs. That famous rental car scene? Still makes me cry with laughter every time.
What really surprised me on my recent rewatch is how well the film holds up. Made in 1987, it could easily feel dated, but the humor and heart remain fresh. The physical comedy is timeless (that bed-sharing scene!), and the emotional beats actually hit harder now that I'm older.
Warning though: there are some R-rated moments that might surprise you if you're watching with kids. That infamous rental car tirade from Steve Martin is legendary for a reason - it's one of the most cathartic swearing scenes in cinema history!
The Blu-ray transfer looks fantastic considering the film's age. Colors pop, and while some scenes show their age in terms of film grain, it adds to the charm. The 5.1 audio mix really shines during chaotic sequences like the famous 'wrong way' highway scene.
Special features are where this release truly shines. The John Candy tribute had me unexpectedly emotional - seeing how much his co-stars adored him makes his performance even more special. The making-of documentary reveals fascinating tidbits, like how Hughes wrote the script in just four days!
Is it perfect? Well, purists might miss some deleted scenes that didn't make this edition (though we do get that hilarious 'Airplane Food' extra). And yes, if you're sensitive to profanity or suggestive content from the 80s, a few moments might make you cringe.
But here's why I keep coming back: beneath all the laughs is a genuinely touching story about human connection. That final act revelation about Del gets me every time - turning what could have been just another road trip comedy into something truly special.
Verdict? An absolute must-own for comedy fans. Perfect for Thanksgiving viewings (obviously), but honestly great any time you need a pick-me-up. Steve Martin has never been funnier, and John Candy... well, this might be his finest hour.