Planes, Trains & Automobiles

Neal Page, an advertising executive, is intent on reaching his family in Chicago just days before Thanksgiving. His determination sets the stage for a series of chaotic events that will challenge his patience and resoluteness.

After a frustrating meeting with his indecisive client, Mr. Bryant, Neal's plans to leave for Chicago start to crumble. His anticipation of a smooth journey quickly fades as he struggles to navigate the rush hour chaos.

Neal desperately tries to secure a cab, even resorting to bribing a stranger. However, his troubles multiply when Del Griffith, a quirky shower curtain ring salesman, inadvertently hijacks the cab Neal managed to hail.

While waiting for a delayed flight at LaGuardia Airport, Neal finds himself uncomfortably seated next to Del, who he has just encountered. Their forced proximity signals the beginning of a tumultuous journey that neither had anticipated.

As the plane takes off, it's rerouted to Wichita, Kansas, due to a heavy blizzard in Chicago. This unexpected turn of events leaves Neal and Del scrambling for accommodation, highlighting their continued misfortune.

Del invites Neal to share a room at a nearby motel, but upon arrival, they discover the room has been double-booked. This cramped and awkward situation leads to a comedic series of misunderstandings that puts their patience to the test.

With no accommodation options, Neal and Del board an old train heading to Chicago. The journey is filled with humorous banter and minor quarrels, demonstrating the contrast in their personalities and their growing discomfort with one another.

Their train breaks down near Jefferson City, leaving them stranded in a field. While waiting for help, they are forced to confront their differences but slowly begin to form a bond amidst their shared troubles.

Upon reaching St. Louis Airport, Neal's troubles worsen when he loses his rental car. In a fit of impatience, he gets involved in a physical altercation, highlighting his increasing frustration during this tumultuous trip.

Del intervenes and offers Neal a ride in his own rental car, but their journey quickly turns chaotic. An unfortunate accident due to Del's negligence leaves the car engulfed in flames, adding to Neal's mounting exasperation.

Facing a dire situation after the car fire, Neal trades his watch for a motel room. Meanwhile, Del is stranded in the wreckage, showcasing the absurdity of their circumstances.

The following morning, Neal invites Del to join him, leading to moments of camaraderie over tiny liquor bottles and their shared misadventures. This symbolizes a turning point in their relationship as they begin to see each other differently.

With no vehicle, the duo hitch a ride in a truck driver's refrigerated trailer. This unexpected mode of transport leads to eye-opening experiences for Neal, reinforcing the absurdity yet richness of their journey together.

Upon reaching Chicago, Neal has a realization about Del’s life, understanding that Del is a widower and homeless. This newfound understanding evokes compassion in Neal, transforming his perception of Del.

Moved by his newfound insight, Neal invites Del to Thanksgiving dinner with his family. The meal symbolizes their blossoming friendship and highlights how two mismatched individuals can profoundly impact each other's lives.