As someone who has spent countless hours traveling through various airports and enduring unexpected delays and mishaps, I can wholeheartedly say that “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” is not just a movie, but a poignant reflection of life itself. The friendship between Neal and Del, born out of necessity in the chaos of holiday travel, mirrors the unlikely bonds we form with fellow passengers when our own plans go awry.
The festive season, particularly Christmas, often involves traveling, and a significant portion of this travel happens in the skies. Consequently, it’s no wonder that many heartwarming holiday films center around families reuniting, parting ways, or encountering each other for the first time at airports.
Although not all the films in this collection extensively feature airport settings, these scenes significantly contribute to each film’s narrative success. Essentially, while planes serve as our transport during holiday seasons, in cinema, airport episodes frequently play a pivotal role in shaping the plot.
7
‘Unaccompanied Minors’ (2006)
On Christmas Eve at the Midwestern Hoover International Airport, it’s distressing for Spencer when he realizes that his sister Katherine might miss out on her ideal Christmas because of a group of children traveling alone who are stranded there. With the cooperation of these kids, Spencer decides to bring some holiday cheer by hanging decorations, distributing gifts, and ensuring everyone enjoys the festive season. Yet, not all children share this sentiment, making it necessary for them to unite and transform the airport into a joyous and luminous place for Christmas.
A True Story of Airport Festivities
Drawing inspiration from real-life events, “Unaccompanied Minors ” stands as a heartfelt portrayal of how holidays have the power to bridge gaps between unfamiliar faces and beloved relatives. While it excels in depicting airports and the festive season more effectively than many other films on this list, its humor was not universally lauded, receiving mixed reviews. Nevertheless, it offers a warm-hearted message and an uplifting portrayal of holiday cheer that is worth appreciating.
6
‘The Flight Before Christmas’ (2008)
In a hotel due to a flight cancellation caused by a snowstorm, acquaintances Stephanie (Mayim Bialik) and Michael (Ryan McPartlin) unexpectedly find themselves roommates. Already disenchanted with the festive season following a breakup, Stephanie’s mood worsens when Michael shares his intention to propose to his girlfriend. However, after interacting with a man disguised as Santa Claus and spending more time with Stephanie, Michael comes to recognize that Stephanie could be his opportunity for romance and holiday enchantment.
Not a Merry Christmas for Everyone
Similar to other films on this collection, “The Flight Before Christmas” doesn’t entirely unfold within an airport setting. It is at this location where characters Stephanie and Michael initially cross paths, and later, Stephanie attempts to leave Michael, fearing her presence might disrupt his existing relationship. To clarify, Michael’s behavior towards his girlfriend could certainly use improvement, but perhaps it becomes more understandable why they ultimately part ways so that he can pursue a relationship with Stephanie instead.
5
‘The Terminal’ (2004)
The movie “The Terminal” narrates the story of Viktor Navorski, portrayed by Tom Hanks, who unexpectedly gets stuck at John F. Kennedy Airport when conflict erupts in his native land. With no choice but to stay there, he adapts to life within the airport and forms friendships with several staff members while clashing with the Acting Field Commissioner, Frank Dixon. Eventually, the employees rally behind Viktor, allowing him to depart from the airport to carry out his late father’s last request.
The Spirit of Christmas (and Airports)
Drawing inspiration from the real-life tale of Mehran Karimi Nasseri, it might seem unusual to classify “The Terminal” as a traditional Christmas movie. However, if we compare it to films like “Die Hard 2“, it shares some similarities, given that the film is set in winter and a Christmas tree appears toward its conclusion. Furthermore, the exterior of the airport is adorned with festive lights on shrubs, suggesting preparations for Christmas, and the movie’s core themes – especially Viktor’s creation of a tight-knit community at the terminal – align well with the spirit of Christmas.
4
‘Die Hard 2’ (1990)
2 years post the initial Die Hard, Die Hard 2 finds Bruce Willis reprising his role as John McClane. As he waits for his wife Holly’s flight to land at Washington Dulles International Airport, a group of terrorists seize control of the air traffic management system, with plans to help bring down an aircraft carrying drug lord Ramon Esperanza. With concerns that Holly’s plane might run out of fuel or crash, McClane leaps into action, dismantles the terrorist operation, and manages to be with Holly for Christmas before the holiday sets in.
A Non-Christmas Christmas Movie
The movie titled “Die Hard 2” doesn’t have many festive elements associated with Christmas, apart from its title and setting on Christmas Eve. Yet, it’s a thrilling watch, and when compared to the original, it’s one of the top non-Christmas movies released during the holiday season. Moreover, it deserves recognition for sparking another film on this list.
3
‘Carry-On’ (2024)
In the role of TSA officer Ethan Kopek, portrayed by Taron Egerton, Carry-On is the gripping thriller you won’t want to miss in 2024. This edge-of-your-seat drama unfolds at Los Angeles International Airport where Ethan finds himself unwillingly assisting a secretive Traveler in getting a suspicious suitcase past security. Upon discovering that the bag conceals a deadly nerve agent, Ethan swiftly takes matters into his own hands to protect his girlfriend, the airplane passengers, and the very essence of Christmas itself.
Great Story, Horrible Airport
Watching Carry-On is a blast, and it’s breaking records already! But, the airport depicted in the film might just break records for its chaotic management. It’s best to sit back, relax, and not overthink this movie too much. Despite its flaws, it offers an intriguing perspective on Christmas Eve—the side of the hardworking employees who must be there during the festivities.
2
‘Love Actually’ (2003)
In essence, the film “Love Actually” starts off with a narrator named David sharing his observations about love, as seen through the bustling arrivals at Heathrow Airport. Subsequently, the narrative unfolds into nine intertwined tales, each exploring different aspects of love.
In another context, a character named Daniel (Liam Neeson) is grieving over his wife’s demise and striving to be an attentive father figure for his stepson Sam (Thomas Sangster), who harbors feelings for a schoolmate called Joanna (Olivia Olson). On the other hand, Daniel’s confidante Karen (Emma Thompson) grapples with the suspicion of her spouse Harry (Alan Rickman) being unfaithful.
(Mostly) Loving Arrivals and Departures
In essence, the movie weaves both love themes and holiday ambiance seamlessly. For example, Billy Mack (Bill Nighy) produces a Christmas tune, while Harry breaks Karen’s trust by dancing with Mia (Heike Makatsch) at a yuletide gathering. Moreover, the airport setting introduced initially plays a significant role later on when multiple characters touch down at Heathrow a month after the film’s events have unfolded. It’s worth mentioning that unlike David’s narration, some interactions between characters, such as Karen and Harry’s exchange, appear less affectionate and more frosty instead.
1
‘Planes, Trains and Automobiles’ (1987)
As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but sing the praises of John Hughes’ timeless masterpiece, “Planes, Trains and Automobiles.” During the festive season, this movie stands out as a cherished holiday staple. In the story, I find myself identifying with Steve Martin’s character, Neal, who yearns to be home for the holidays. However, Mother Nature and a string of bad luck conspire against him, leaving his plans in ruins. The silver lining is that this unplanned journey brings about an unlikely and heartwarming bond with John Candy’s character, Del.
Flying High on Holiday Movie Lists
Although the movie only briefly takes place in airports, these scenes are among the most important in the whole film. In the first one, Neal meets Del at LaGuardia Airport, which jump-starts their odd couple friendship. There’s also a memorable scene at St. Louis Airport’s rental car lot, where a frustrated Neal nearly has a breakdown and leaves with no car to show for it. Funny, heartwarming, and full of the holiday spirit, there’s a reason why so many actors want to remake this memorable film (…and many, many more reasons why they shouldn’t).
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2024-12-23 07:02