Full Breakdown
Thanksgiving Chaos in Ghosts: A Deep Dive into "Planes, Shanes, and Automobiles"
11/22/2025, 1:37:08 AM
Overview of the Episode
The latest episode of *Ghosts*, titled "Planes, Shanes, and Automobiles," pays homage to the classic film *Planes, Trains and Automobiles*. It features Sam (Rose McIver) embarking on a chaotic book tour road trip with the ghost Pete (Richie Moriarty). The episode, which aired on November 20, 2023, showcases their travel mishaps and the challenges faced by the spirits at Woodstone Mansion while Sam is away.
Key Plot Points
During the episode, Sam embodies Steve Martin's character, Neal, while Pete channels John Candy's Del. Their journey is filled with comedic friction, particularly when an airline strike threatens their return home for Thanksgiving. Meanwhile, back at the mansion, Jay (Utkarsh Ambudkar) struggles to manage the other spirits, leading them to summon Kyle (Ben Feldman) for assistance. This decision introduces new dynamics and comedic elements as the ghosts manipulate Jay's efforts.
Character Dynamics and Development
Richie Moriarty, who plays Pete, expressed excitement about the episode's premise, noting the challenge of portraying Pete as "lovably annoying," akin to John Candy's iconic role. He highlighted the emotional depth of Pete's character, particularly the significance of his legacy being remembered. Moriarty stated, "Anytime there’s an episode like this where somebody who is still alive is referencing one of us, I think it’s really powerful."
The episode also hints at the budding romance between Pete and Alberta (Danielle Pinnock), which is still in its early stages. Moriarty teased upcoming developments in their relationship, including a significant revelation from Alberta's past that will deepen their connection.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights
Moriarty shared insights into the production, revealing that a real helicopter was used for filming, although they did not fly in it. The crew's ability to create engaging scenes with limited lead time was praised, showcasing their dedication to bringing the script to life.
Official Statements & Responses
Moriarty emphasized the importance of character-driven stories in *Ghosts*, stating, "Our writers do such a good job of tugging on heartstrings with major Pete episodes." He also expressed enthusiasm for an upcoming episode featuring a "fight club" storyline, which promises to inject humor into the series.
Criticism & Opposition
While the episode has been well-received, some viewers may find the reliance on classic film references to be a double-edged sword, potentially alienating those unfamiliar with *Planes, Trains and Automobiles*. However, the blend of humor and heartfelt moments remains a hallmark of the series.
What's Next
Looking ahead, fans can anticipate the continuation of Pete and Alberta's relationship, alongside the introduction of new comedic scenarios as the season progresses. The upcoming episodes are expected to delve deeper into character backstories and further explore the dynamics within the Woodstone Mansion.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I feel like our writers do such a good job of tugging on heartstrings with major Pete episodes, and I love playing that aspect of it, obviously, but there’s an episode coming up…” — Richie Moriarty, Actor
This episode of *Ghosts* not only entertains but also enriches the narrative tapestry of the series, blending humor with poignant moments that resonate with viewers.
