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 for the region, drawing hundreds of locals to participate as extras and bringing Hollywood glamour to a rural setting. Beyond the film shoot, the story of John Candy’s late-night pizza adventure in Batavia has become a beloved local legend, highlighting the town’s unique connection to Hollywood history. Recent developments include the release of a new John Candy documentary that uncovers more about his time in Western New York, emphasizing the region’s ongoing cultural significance. In 1987, Batavia, a small city in upstate New York, unexpectedly became a focal point of Hollywood activity when the production of "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" chose it as a stand-in for the Midwest. The film, a classic Thanksgiving comedy directed by John Hughes, required rural, snowy landscapes that matched the Midwest’s wintery aesthetic. The casting call drew an enthusiastic crowd, with locals eager to participate in a film that would go on to become a holiday staple. The filming process was a community event, with hundreds of residents paid to act as extras, contributing to the authentic feel of the movie’s small-town setting. The event not only boosted local morale but also showcased the region’s capacity to host major film productions, paving the way for future opportunities in regional filmmaking. Adding to the lore, John Candy’s spontaneous late-night pizza escapade in Batavia has become a cherished story. On February 24, 1987, Candy visited Heveron’s Towne Manor, a local tavern, where he played electronic darts and expressed hunger. Nick Cinquino, the manager of Pizza Partners, offered to make Candy “the best pizza in Batavia,” but Candy insisted on making it himself. The actor took over the kitchen around 2:30 a.m., keeping the staff and patrons entertained until 4:30 a.m. This story exemplifies Candy’s down-to-earth personality and his genuine connection with fans and locals. Today, this anecdote is celebrated as part of Western New York’s rich film history, especially with the recent release of a documentary that explores Candy’s ties to the region. Recent facts that deepen this story include the following: 1. The 1987 filming in Batavia was part of a broader trend of Hollywood productions choosing upstate New York for its picturesque winter landscapes, which also included scenes shot in nearby towns like South Dayton. 2. The film’s success helped boost tourism in the region, with fans visiting Batavia to see filming locations and relive movie moments. 3. The new John Candy documentary, released in late 2024, features never-before-seen footage of Candy’s time in Western New York, highlighting his affection for the area. 4. Local businesses, including Pizza Partners, have since become part of the film’s legacy, with some offering themed menu items inspired by Candy’s pizza night. 5. The region has seen a resurgence in film and TV production interest, partly inspired by the legacy of "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" and its iconic scenes shot in Batavia. Today, Batavia’s role in Hollywood history remains a point of pride for residents and film enthusiasts alike. The story of how a small upstate town became part of a beloved holiday classic continues to inspire new generations of filmmakers and fans. As the region embraces its cinematic heritage, efforts are underway to establish a dedicated film history museum and annual festival celebrating its 1987 Hollywood moment. This ongoing recognition not only preserves the town’s cultural legacy but also promotes regional tourism and economic development, ensuring that Batavia’s Hollywood story endures well into the future.

More recent coverage