Exploring the Key St. Louis Scenes in the Classic Thanksgiving Film
As Thanksgiving approaches, families across the country are preparing for the annual pilgrimage back home. However, the journey is not always smooth sailing, as depicted in the beloved 1987 comedy, Planes, Trains, and Automobiles. Directed by John Hughes, the film follows the misadventures of Neal Page (played by Steve Martin) and Del Griffith (played by John Candy) as they desperately try to make it from New York to Chicago in time for Thanksgiving. Along the way, their path takes them through St. Louis, where several memorable scenes unfold. Let’s take a closer look at these key moments in the film and their connection to the Gateway City.
Selling Shower Curtains in St. Louis
Upon their arrival in St. Louis, Neal and Del find themselves short on cash after an unexpected theft in Kansas. In a bid to recoup their losses, Del, a salesman, attempts to sell shower curtain rings to fellow travelers, even promoting them as earrings to female customers. While this scene is set in St. Louis, it was actually filmed elsewhere in Illinois. Nevertheless, it sets the stage for the duo’s humorous and resourceful attempts to overcome their obstacles.
A Meal and Heartfelt Conversations
In one of the film’s most poignant moments, Neal and Del share a meal and open up about their family lives. Neal confesses that he is missing his daughter’s recital, while Del reveals that he hasn’t been home in years and misses the “precious moments” with his wife. The conversation highlights the underlying themes of family, friendship, and the importance of cherishing the moments that truly matter. However, tensions arise when the topic of who should pay the dinner bill becomes a point of contention between the two characters.
Rental Car Frustrations at the St. Louis Airport
Desperate to continue their journey, Neal arranges for a rental car through a phone call to his family. However, upon arrival at the rental car lot, he discovers that the car he ordered is not available. Frustrated and disheartened, Neal throws his paperwork in the air and trudges back to the airport terminal through the snow. The scene was filmed with the Renaissance St. Louis Airport Hotel in the background, adding a touch of authenticity to the St. Louis setting.
The Memorable Rant and R-Rating Controversy
Back at the airport terminal, Neal’s frustration reaches its peak as he confronts a Marathon car rental service clerk. In a scene that contributed to the film’s R-rating, Neal unleashes a stream of expletives, using a certain curse word 18 times in roughly one minute. The clerk’s nonchalant response and demand for documentation only further exacerbate Neal’s anger, culminating in a fiery exchange that has become one of the film’s most iconic moments.
A Scary Encounter in St. Louis
Running out of options, Neal seeks a cab to take him to Chicago, only to be met with a sarcastic remark from the dispatcher. Tensions escalate, leading to a physical altercation that leaves Neal on the ground, narrowly avoiding being run over by a passing car. To his surprise, the driver of the car is none other than Del Griffith, reuniting the two and providing a glimmer of hope in their chaotic journey.
Conclusion:
Planes, Trains, and Automobiles takes viewers on a hilarious and heartwarming adventure through St. Louis as Neal and Del navigate their way back home for Thanksgiving. From selling shower curtains to rental car frustrations, each scene in the Gateway City adds a unique element to the story. Despite the challenges and comedic mishaps, the film ultimately reminds us of the importance of family, friendship, and the unexpected connections we make along life’s journey. So, as you gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, take a moment to appreciate the unpredictable and unforgettable moments that make the holiday truly special.
(Note: Planes, Trains, and Automobiles can be streamed on various platforms, including Paramount+, HBO Max, YouTube TV, Sling TV, Philo, fuboTV, and Amazon Prime Video, or purchased on YouTube, Google Play, Vudu, and AppleTV.)
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