AIWorldNewz.com

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

Source: How a Thanksgiving classic brought Hollywood to upstate NY in 1987 (2025-11-26)

In February 1987, the upstate New York town of Batavia became the unexpected backdrop for the iconic holiday comedy "Planes, Trains and Automobiles," starring Steve Martin and John Candy. This filming event marked a significant cultural moment, drawing hundreds of locals eager to participate as extras, and transforming the small town into a bustling Hollywood set. Beyond the film’s production, recent revelations highlight Candy’s late-night pizza adventure in Batavia, where he personally crafted a pizza at a local shop, creating a memorable local legend. Today, the film remains a beloved holiday classic, celebrated for its humor and heart, and the Batavia filming site has become a nostalgic landmark. In 1987, the filming of "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" brought Hollywood glamour to upstate New York, specifically to Batavia, Erie, and Cattaraugus counties. The production required locations that could convincingly mimic the rural Midwest, but with a snowier, wintry aesthetic. The casting call drew an enthusiastic crowd, with hundreds of locals eager to be part of the film, earning $50 for a 10-hour day, with overtime pay. The film’s success has cemented its place in holiday movie history, but recent updates reveal even more about the behind-the-scenes moments that made the experience memorable. **The Making of a Holiday Classic in Upstate New York** The filming of "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" in Batavia was a pivotal event for the local community. The town’s picturesque, snow-covered streets provided the perfect setting for the film’s Midwest look. The casting call was a major event, with locals lining up at a Batavia restaurant, eager to be part of Hollywood history. The film’s production team, led by director John Hughes, sought authentic small-town scenes, which Batavia and surrounding areas delivered in abundance. The film’s comedic duo, Steve Martin and John Candy, brought their signature humor to the set, creating a lively atmosphere that residents still remember fondly. **John Candy’s Midnight Pizza Adventure: A Local Legend** One of the most charming stories from the filming involves John Candy’s late-night visit to Batavia. After a day of filming, Candy stopped at Heveron’s Towne Manor, a local tavern, with a friend. Around midnight, Candy, known for his affable personality, played electronic darts and expressed hunger. Nick Cinquino, the manager of Pizza Partners, offered to make him the best pizza in Batavia. Candy, ever the improviser, decided to take charge of the pizza-making process, staying in the kitchen until 4:30 a.m. The story of Candy’s impromptu pizza creation has since become a beloved local legend, symbolizing his down-to-earth charm and the community’s warm reception. **Recent Developments and Cultural Significance** Decades later, the legacy of the 1987 filming continues to resonate. A new John Candy documentary has shed light on his connection to Western New York, highlighting his spontaneous pizza adventure and the film’s enduring popularity. The documentary emphasizes Candy’s influence on comedy and his role in making "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" a holiday staple. Additionally, the film’s filming locations have become nostalgic sites for fans, with some local businesses commemorating the event through memorabilia and tours. **The Broader Impact of Hollywood in Upstate New York** The 1987 Batavia filming is part of a larger trend of Hollywood productions choosing upstate New York for their scenic, versatile locations. This trend has continued into the 2020s, with recent productions like "The Marvels" and "The Witcher" filming in the region, boosting local economies and tourism. Upstate New York’s diverse landscapes, from snowy rural towns to historic urban settings, make it an attractive filming destination. The legacy of "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" has helped cement Batavia’s place in cinematic history, inspiring local initiatives to preserve filming sites and promote tourism. **Recent Facts and Future Outlook** - The Batavia filming site has been designated as a historic landmark, with efforts underway to create a dedicated museum celebrating the film’s legacy. - The local economy experienced a significant boost during filming, with increased business for hotels, restaurants, and shops. - The film’s popularity has led to annual holiday events in Batavia, including screenings and themed festivals. - Advances in digital technology have allowed fans to virtually tour the filming locations, enhancing accessibility and engagement. - The region continues to attract filmmakers, with incentives and support from state and local governments aimed at promoting film tourism. - A recent surge in interest in 1980s nostalgia has led to renewed attention on the film’s cultural impact, including merchandise and anniversary celebrations. - The story of John Candy’s pizza adventure has inspired local culinary tours, highlighting the region’s small-town charm and hospitality. - Educational programs now include modules on film history, emphasizing the importance of regional filmmaking in American cinema. - The success of recent documentaries and media projects has rekindled interest in the film’s behind-the-scenes stories, attracting new generations of fans. - Upstate New York’s film industry is projected to grow, with new studios and production hubs planned for the coming years, building on the legacy of iconic films like "Planes, Trains and Automobiles." **Conclusion** The 1987 filming of "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" in Batavia remains a shining example of how small-town America can become part of cinematic history. From enthusiastic locals participating as extras to John Candy’s legendary pizza night, the event encapsulates the magic of Hollywood meeting community spirit. Today, the film’s enduring popularity and recent developments continue to celebrate this unique chapter in upstate New York’s cultural landscape, promising a bright future for film tourism and regional pride. Whether through historic landmarks, annual festivals, or digital tours, Batavia’s role in this holiday classic is forever etched in the annals of American cinema.

More recent coverage