National Lampoon's Vacation
Plot
The misadventures of Clark Griswold, a well-meaning but hapless family man, begin when he sets out to take his loved ones on a memorable summer vacation to Walley World, a fictional theme park inspired by Disneyland. Clark's excitement is palpable as he prepares for the trip with his wife Ellen and their two children, Rusty and Audrey. As the Griswold family embarks on their journey, they encounter a series of mishaps, miscommunications, and cultural clashes that test their patience, sanity, and love for each other. Clark's enthusiasm is constantly tempered by the challenges he faces, from a disastrous campsite to a run-in with a belligerent RV park owner. The family's arrival at Walley World only adds to the chaos, as they face long lines, overcrowded facilities, and a series of unexpected setbacks. Despite these obstacles, Clark remains determined to make this vacation one for the books, even if it means sacrificing his sanity (and the family's) in the process. National Lampoon's Vacation is a hilarious and heartwarming portrayal of the Griswold family's misadventures on their way to Walley World. With its witty humor, memorable characters, and relatable themes, this classic comedy has become an iconic representation of American family values and the importance of spending quality time together. Throughout the film, Chevy Chase shines as Clark Griswold, bringing his signature blend of wit, charm, and physical comedy to the role. His portrayal of a lovable but hapless patriarch is both endearing and laugh-out-loud funny, making National Lampoon's Vacation an instant classic that continues to entertain audiences to this day.
Reviews
Maggie
Not awful, just boring. The SWAT team bit at the end was somewhat amusing, though.
Gabrielle
7.0/10. First view, Blu-ray. The first of Chevy Chase's "Vacation" quadrilogy. Part 1: *National Lampoon's Vacation* (1983), Part 2: *European Vacation* (1985), Part 3: *Christmas Vacation* (1989), Part 4: *Vegas Vacation* (1997). This is old-school American comedy; viewed through today's lens, it's just alright. Films from the '80s and '90s were open, filled with politically incorrect humor. A Black man stealing hubcaps, gratuitous nudity. Chevy Chase played the grumpy, problematic, rich old man, Pierce, in the comedy *Community*. I...
Aurora
A piping hot, quintessential 80s middle-class vacation - thirteen times more enjoyable than that recent remake.
Maria
If the reboot relies purely on tasteless, low-brow humor for laughs, this original is more of a social satire packaged as a road comedy, hitting home with its sharp critique of the contradictions and limitations of various strata of American society in the 80s. From the stereotyped portrayals of Black and Native American people to the hard-knocks lives of farming families, you can't help but feel a pang of sorrow amidst the laughter. John Hughes was truly on a roll, creating countless classic comedic templates during this period.
Brooklyn
"National Lampoon's Vacation" is a hilarious road trip comedy that perfectly captures the essence of a disastrous family vacation. Chevy Chase shines as Clark Griswold, a well-meaning but hapless patriarch who gets his family into one absurd situation after another. With its witty dialogue and ridiculous humor, this film is a classic that will leave you laughing out loud. The Griswold family's ill-fated journey to Walley World is a relatable and entertaining ride that has become a staple of American comedy.
