 The film was initially marketed as a potentially loose remake of  _Planes, Trains & Automobiles (1987)_ (qv), which was also released  through Paramount Pictures. Both films feature similar plots, of a  businessman who has to return home in a short amount of time and  finds himself under the company of an annoying loudmouth. Although  it was never billed as a remake, numerous interviews claimed the  material was at least inspired by John Hughes film.