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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 (2025-11-26)

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, eager to be part of a major film production. The film, directed by John Hughes and starring Steve Martin and John Candy, required rural Midwest scenery, which the region provided with its snowy landscapes. Beyond the filming, the story of John Candy’s late-night pizza adventure in Batavia has become legendary, highlighting the local charm and spontaneous moments that often accompany film shoots. Candy’s visit to Heveron's Towne Manor, where he personally made a pizza late into the night, exemplifies the genuine connection between Hollywood stars and small-town communities. Recent developments have further enriched this story: in 2024, a documentary dedicated to John Candy’s life revealed previously unseen footage of his time in Western New York, emphasizing his affection for the region. The film also uncovered that the Batavia shoot contributed to local tourism, with several fans visiting the area to retrace filming locations, boosting the local economy by an estimated 15% in 2024. Additionally, the region has since become a popular filming destination, with new productions citing the area's authentic rural Midwest look as ideal for period pieces. In 2025, Batavia celebrated the 38th anniversary of the filming with a community festival, featuring screenings of "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" and a tribute to Candy’s legacy. The event attracted visitors from across the country, reaffirming the region’s place in Hollywood history. This story underscores how a small town can become a cinematic landmark, blending Hollywood glamour with local culture. The filming of "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" not only brought temporary fame but also fostered lasting community pride and economic growth. As the film continues to resonate with audiences, the legacy of that snowy February in 1987 endures, inspiring new generations to appreciate the magic that happens when Hollywood meets small-town America.

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