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01-03-2025

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Meta Description: Is "Planes, Trains, and Automobiles" appropriate for your kids? Common Sense Media provides a comprehensive review, exploring the film's humor, mature themes, and overall suitability for different age groups. Learn about the movie's comedic violence, suggestive content, and language, and decide if it's right for your family. Get the full scoop before pressing play!

Is "Planes, Trains, and Automobiles" Right for Your Family? A Common Sense Media Perspective

John Hughes's classic comedy, "Planes, Trains, and Automobiles," is a hilarious road trip movie starring Steve Martin and John Candy. But is this chaotic adventure suitable for the whole family? Common Sense Media helps parents navigate the film's content to make an informed decision.

The Hilarious Mayhem: What to Expect

The movie centers around Neal Page (Steve Martin), a stressed-out advertising executive, desperate to get home for Thanksgiving. His journey is hilariously derailed by Del Griffith (John Candy), a boisterous shower curtain ring salesman. Their misadventures involve missed flights, broken-down cars, and countless comedic mishaps.

Humor and Tone

The film's humor is largely slapstick and relies heavily on physical comedy. Expect plenty of exaggerated situations and over-the-top reactions. While generally lighthearted, some jokes might be a bit too adult for younger children.

Mature Themes and Content

While not overly graphic, "Planes, Trains, and Automobiles" does contain some mature themes. These include:

• Frustration and Anger: Neal's constant struggles with travel delays lead to outbursts of frustration and anger.
• Crude Humor: Several jokes are suggestive or rely on toilet humor, which may not be appropriate for younger viewers.
• Mild Language: While not excessive, the film does contain some mild profanity and suggestive language.

Violence

The film contains very little violence. Most instances are slapstick in nature and intended for comedic effect. However, a few scenes might be mildly frightening for very young children.

Common Sense Media's Age Recommendations

Common Sense Media suggests this movie is appropriate for ages 12+. Younger children may find some of the humor and mature themes inappropriate or confusing.

Talking Points for Parents and Kids

After watching the movie, engage in conversation with your children about:

• Dealing with frustration: How does Neal handle stressful situations? Are his reactions healthy?
• The importance of patience: What lessons can be learned from Del's persistent optimism despite setbacks?
• The value of unexpected friendships: How does the unlikely friendship between Neal and Del develop?

Conclusion: A Hilarious, But Not Always Family-Friendly, Classic

"Planes, Trains, and Automobiles" is a timeless comedic classic. However, its mature themes and occasional crude humor make it more suitable for older children and teenagers. Parents should preview the movie and decide if its content aligns with their family's values and the maturity level of their children. Common Sense Media's detailed review provides valuable insights to help you make the right choice.

Related Articles:

• [Link to another Common Sense Media review on a similar movie]
• [Link to an article about family-friendly road trip movies]

(Remember to replace bracketed links with actual links to relevant content.)