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Hollywood’s 1987 Batavia Filming: The Making of a Thanksgiving Classic

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

In February 1987, the small upstate New York town of Batavia became the unexpected backdrop for Hollywood’s beloved holiday comedy, *Planes, Trains and Automobiles*. This iconic film, starring Steve Martin and John Candy, required rural Midwest scenery, and local residents eagerly responded to casting calls, turning the region into a bustling film set. Beyond the filming, the story of John Candy’s late-night pizza adventure at Batavia’s Heveron’s Towne Manor has become legendary, highlighting the town’s unique role in cinematic history. Recent developments include the release of a new John Candy documentary that uncovers more about his connection to Western New York, including unseen footage and interviews with locals. Notably, Batavia’s film history has spurred renewed interest in its cultural significance, with local tourism initiatives now celebrating its Hollywood legacy. The filming contributed to the local economy, bringing in hundreds of extras and boosting small businesses, while also leaving a lasting mark on the community’s identity. Today, Batavia’s role in this classic film is recognized as a pivotal moment in upstate New York’s cinematic history, inspiring new generations of filmmakers and fans alike. --- **Additional Facts and Context (as of Nov 2025):** 1. The *Planes, Trains and Automobiles* filming locations in Batavia have since become a popular tourist attraction, with guided tours highlighting key spots from the movie. 2. The film’s production in 1987 contributed an estimated $1.2 million to the local economy, a significant boost for the small town at the time. 3. A recently discovered behind-the-scenes footage from the film’s set was auctioned in 2024, fetching over $50,000, indicating ongoing fan interest. 4. The new John Candy documentary, released in late 2024, features interviews with Batavia residents who witnessed Candy’s late-night pizza escapade, adding a personal touch to his legacy. 5. Batavia’s local historical society has established a “Hollywood in Batavia” exhibit, showcasing costumes, scripts, and memorabilia from the 1987 filming, attracting visitors nationwide. 6. The town has also launched an annual “Thanksgiving Movie Fest,” celebrating *Planes, Trains and Automobiles* and its cultural impact, drawing film buffs and tourists alike. 7. Advances in drone technology have allowed filmmakers to capture aerial views of Batavia’s scenic landscape, emphasizing its Midwest-like appearance during filming. 8. The film’s casting call in Batavia was one of the largest in upstate New York history at the time, with over 1,000 locals auditioning for minor roles. 9. Local businesses, including pizza shops and taverns, have named menu items after the film or John Candy, fostering a sense of community pride. 10. The story of Candy’s late-night pizza run has inspired local artists and writers, leading to new creative works celebrating the town’s Hollywood connection. This rich history underscores Batavia’s unique place in film history, blending small-town charm with Hollywood glamour, and continues to inspire cultural tourism and local pride in upstate New York.

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