The Best Buddy Comedy Ever Made Lands a New Streaming Home Just in Time for Thanksgiving

The movie Roger Ebert named a Thanksgiving essential is back on streaming platforms. John Hughes' classic buddy comedy Planes, Trains and Automobiles has found a new streaming home on Paramount+, offering viewers a chance to enjoy one of the funniest films ever.

About the Film

Starring John Candy alongside Steve Martin, this beloved Thanksgiving movie depicts the journey of Neal Page, a businessman eager to return to Chicago for the holiday. His trip becomes a chaotic ordeal, worsened by his talkative and irritating travel companion, Del Griffith.

Plot Synopsis from Rotten Tomatoes

"Easily excitable Neal Page (Steve Martin) is somewhat of a control freak. Trying to get home to Chicago to spend Thanksgiving with his wife (Laila Robins) and kids, his flight is rerouted to a distant city in Kansas because of a freak snowstorm, and his sanity begins to fray. Worse yet, he is forced to bunk up with talkative Del Griffith (John Candy), whom he finds extremely annoying. Together they must overcome the insanity of holiday travel to reach their intended destination."

New Streaming Arrivals on Paramount+

Planes, Trains and Automobiles
Catch Me If You Can
Saturday Night Fever
Ferris Bueller's Day Off

Released during the height of Hughes’ career, Planes, Trains and Automobiles was a notable shift from his usual focus on teen dramas, showcasing his talent for blending comedy with heartwarming storytelling.

Author’s Summary

This timeless buddy comedy returns to streaming, delivering humor and heart as it captures the chaos of holiday travel and the unlikely friendship forged along the way.

MovieWeb — 2025-11-02