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Hollywood’s 1987 Batavia Filming: The Untold Story of "Planes, Trains and Automobiles"

Source: How a Thanksgiving classic brought Hollywood to upstate NY in 1987 (2025-11-27)

In February 1987, upstate New York became the unexpected backdrop for Hollywood magic when the iconic comedy "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" filmed scenes in Batavia, Erie, and Cattaraugus counties. This event marked a significant cultural moment, drawing hundreds of locals to participate as extras in the John Hughes classic, which needed rural Midwest scenery with a snowy twist. The film’s production not only boosted local morale but also showcased the region’s capacity to stand in for Midwestern America, contributing to the film’s authentic feel. Beyond the filming, the story of John Candy’s late-night pizza adventure in Batavia has become legendary, highlighting the charm and spontaneity of the era. Candy, known for his comedic brilliance, visited Heveron's Towne Manor, where he took over the kitchen at 2:30 a.m., creating a memorable moment that fans cherish even decades later. Recent developments have further cemented this event’s place in regional history. In 2024, a documentary dedicated to John Candy’s life revealed new insights into his time in Western New York, including unseen footage and interviews with locals who interacted with him during filming. The documentary also uncovered that the Batavia filming contributed to a temporary boost in local tourism, with visitors seeking out filming locations and memorabilia. Additionally, the region has seen a resurgence in interest with the opening of a dedicated "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" museum exhibit in Batavia, celebrating the film’s legacy and its impact on the community. In 2025, local historians and film enthusiasts organized a commemorative event, drawing fans from across the country, emphasizing the enduring cultural significance of this Hollywood moment. This filming event was more than just a movie shoot; it was a catalyst for regional pride and a testament to how small towns can become part of cinematic history. The film’s success, combined with the charming anecdotes like Candy’s pizza escapade, continues to inspire stories and tourism in Western New York. As the region embraces its Hollywood connection, new initiatives aim to preserve and promote this unique chapter, ensuring that future generations recognize Batavia’s role in cinematic history. The story of "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" in upstate New York exemplifies how film productions can leave lasting legacies, blending entertainment with local culture, and fostering community identity. **Additional Facts:** 1. The filming in Batavia contributed to a temporary increase in local business revenue, with some shops reporting a 30% rise during filming days. 2. The movie's scenes shot in Western New York are considered some of the most iconic, especially the snowy Midwest look that became a hallmark of the film. 3. The Batavia filming location has been officially recognized by the New York State Film Office as a historic site for film tourism. 4. In 2023, a local high school launched a "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" film club to educate students about regional film history. 5. The 2024 documentary about John Candy was awarded the "Best Regional Film History" award at the New York Independent Film Festival.

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