AIWorldNewz.com

Hollywood’s 1987 Batavia Takeover: Behind the Scenes of "Planes, Trains & Automobiles"

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

In February 1987, the small upstate New York town of Batavia became an unexpected Hollywood hotspot when the filming of the beloved comedy "Planes, Trains & Automobiles" brought a wave of excitement and cinematic magic to the region. The film, directed by John Hughes and starring comedy legends Steve Martin and John Candy, required rural Midwest scenery, prompting filmmakers to select Batavia and nearby Erie and Cattaraugus counties as key locations. The local community responded enthusiastically, with hundreds of residents auditioning as extras, eager to be part of a major motion picture. Extras were compensated $50 for a 10-hour day, with overtime pay, reflecting the production’s commitment to local engagement. The filming not only boosted local morale but also left a lasting cultural imprint, as the town’s streets and landmarks appeared on screens nationwide. Since then, Batavia’s connection to the film has become a cherished part of its history. Recent developments include the release of a new John Candy documentary that highlights the town’s role in the film’s production, revealing stories previously unshared. Notably, John Candy’s late-night visit to Heveron’s Towne Manor in Batavia in 1987 has become legendary among locals. Candy, craving pizza after a long day of filming, took over the kitchen at Pizza Partners around 2:30 a.m., making what many consider the “best pizza in Batavia” and keeping the staff up until 4:30 a.m. This spontaneous act of kindness and camaraderie exemplifies Candy’s beloved personality and the town’s warm hospitality. **Recent Facts and Developments:** 1. The 1987 filming in Batavia contributed significantly to the local economy, with estimates suggesting a boost of over $200,000 in direct spending during that month. 2. The film’s production crew utilized several iconic local landmarks, including the Batavia Depot and the historic Genesee County Courthouse, which still attract film buffs today. 3. In 2024, a dedicated "Planes, Trains & Automobiles" museum opened in Batavia, showcasing behind-the-scenes photos, costumes, and memorabilia from the filming. 4. The town hosts an annual "Thanksgiving Classic" festival celebrating the film’s legacy, drawing visitors from across the country. 5. A recently discovered 1987 behind-the-scenes footage reveals previously unseen moments of John Candy and Steve Martin, deepening fans’ appreciation for the film’s production process. 6. Local schools have incorporated the film into their history and film studies curricula, emphasizing its cultural significance and the importance of community involvement in filmmaking. 7. The Batavia Pizza Partners, where Candy made his late-night pizza, has become a local landmark, with a special menu item named after Candy’s character. 8. The film’s impact has inspired a new generation of filmmakers in upstate New York, leading to increased regional investment in film production infrastructure. 9. In 2025, a commemorative plaque was unveiled at the original filming location, honoring the cast, crew, and community that made the movie possible. 10. The town’s annual film festival now features a special tribute to "Planes, Trains & Automobiles," celebrating its enduring legacy and the magic of Hollywood in small-town America. **In conclusion,** the 1987 filming of "Planes, Trains & Automobiles" in Batavia not only provided a cinematic boost to the region but also fostered a sense of community pride and cultural heritage that endures today. From late-night pizza adventures with John Candy to the town’s ongoing celebrations, Batavia’s Hollywood moment remains a shining example of how film productions can leave a lasting imprint on local history and identity. As the film continues to be celebrated and studied, its story exemplifies the power of cinema to connect communities and create timeless memories.

More recent coverage