Steve Martin recalls how John Candy’s patience and warmth uplifted the crew during the grueling 1987 winter shoot of Planes, Trains and Automobiles in Illinois.
John Candy’s Kindness Transformed the Planes, Trains and Automobiles Set, Steve Martin Recalls
The 1987 comedy classic Planes, Trains and Automobiles, directed by John Hughes, remains a beloved Thanksgiving film thanks to the brilliant pairing of Steve Martin and John Candy. However, behind the laughs was a grueling shoot—freezing temperatures, tight schedules, and demanding locations. In interviews over the years, Steve Martin has reflected on how John Candy’s unwavering kindness and patience quietly transformed the atmosphere on set.
A Brutal Winter Shoot in Rural Illinois
Filming took place in the dead of winter across rural Illinois, including locations in Buffalo Grove, Woodstock, and Braidwood. Temperatures often dropped below freezing, making outdoor scenes physically exhausting. Crew members worked long hours in heavy coats, while actors had to perform in lighter costumes for continuity.
In a 2012 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Martin recalled:
“It was miserable. We were shooting in the middle of nowhere, in the cold, and everyone was exhausted. But John [Candy] never complained. He’d crack jokes, check in on the crew, and keep spirits up. His energy was infectious.”
Candy’s Quiet Acts of Kindness
Several crew members later shared stories of Candy’s generosity. According to assistant director Bruce A. Block, Candy would often:
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Bring coffee and snacks for the crew during night shoots.
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Stay late to rehearse with background actors, even when not required.
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Lighten tense moments with improvised jokes, some of which made it into the film.
One famous improvised moment was Candy’s “Those aren’t pillows!” line, which became one of the movie’s most iconic scenes (watch the clip here).
Social Media Reactions & Legacy
Fans still celebrate Candy’s warmth both on and off-screen. A recent tweet from a film historian went viral:
“John Candy didn’t just act in Planes, Trains and Automobiles—he made the set a better place. That’s why his performances feel so genuine. He truly cared.” (Tweet link)
Decades later, Martin still speaks fondly of his co-star, emphasizing how Candy’s humanity shone through even in tough conditions. It’s a testament to why Planes, Trains and Automobiles remains not just a comedy masterpiece, but a film filled with heart—much like John Candy himself.
Final Thoughts
John Candy’s legacy extends beyond his roles—his kindness on set left a lasting impact. If you rewatch Planes, Trains and Automobiles this Thanksgiving, remember the warmth he brought, both on-screen and behind the scenes.
