DJ iSizzle, a self-proclaimed connoisseur of classic comedies, has curated a list of his top six favorite films from the National Lampoon’s Vacation series. These films, known for their chaotic humor and the misadventures of the Griswold family, have become staples in American comedy. Below, we delve into each of these films, providing insights, behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and trailers to enhance your viewing experience.(Vanity Fair)
🎬 1. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
A holiday classic, this film follows Clark Griswold’s attempts to create the perfect Christmas for his family, leading to a series of comedic disasters. The film’s charm lies in its relatable family dynamics and over-the-top humor.(Wikipedia)
Fun Fact: The iconic “squirrel in the tree” scene was nearly derailed when the trained squirrel died before filming. The crew had to improvise, using a stuffed squirrel for most shots, with Chevy Chase wearing it for several takes. (EW.com)
Trailer:
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989) Modern Trailer
🚗 2. National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983)
The original film that started it all, this movie chronicles the Griswold family’s cross-country road trip to Walley World. Directed by Harold Ramis and written by John Hughes, it set the tone for the series with its blend of slapstick and heartfelt moments.(EW.com)
Behind the Scenes: The film’s original ending had the Griswolds confronting the park owner at his home. However, test audiences found it unsatisfying, leading to a reshoot where Clark hijacks the park, resulting in a more memorable conclusion. (EW.com)
Trailer:
National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983) Theatrical Trailer [4K]
🎰 3. Vegas Vacation (1997)
In this installment, the Griswolds head to Las Vegas for a family vacation. The film explores the absurdities of the city through the eyes of the Griswolds, offering a humorous take on the Vegas experience.(YouTube)
Notable Cameo: Wayne Newton appears as himself, adding to the film’s comedic allure.
Trailer:
🌍 4. National Lampoon’s European Vacation (1985)
The Griswolds win a trip to Europe, leading to a series of comedic misadventures across the continent. The film satirizes European culture and the American tourist experience, offering a humorous perspective on international travel.
Cultural Commentary: The film highlights the cultural differences and misunderstandings that arise when Americans travel abroad, using humor to bridge the gap.
Trailer:
National Lampoon’s European Vacation – Trailer
🛣️ 5. Vacation (2015)
A sequel to the original series, this film follows the now-adult Rusty Griswold as he takes his family on a road trip to Walley World. The film pays homage to the original while introducing new characters and situations.(EW.com)
Modern Twist: The film blends the classic elements of the original with contemporary humor, appealing to both nostalgic fans and new audiences.
Trailer:
Vacation Official Trailer (2015) – Ed Helms, Christina Applegate HD
🏝️ 6. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation 2: Cousin Eddie’s Island Adventure (2003)
A direct-to-video sequel, this film shifts focus to Cousin Eddie as he embarks on a vacation to the South Pacific. While not as critically acclaimed as its predecessors, it offers a different perspective on the Griswold family’s extended universe.(YouTube)
Spin-off Appeal: The film explores Cousin Eddie’s character in more depth, providing fans with a fresh take on the beloved character.
Trailer:
Christmas Vacation 2 – Cousin Eddie’s Island Adventure (2003) Trailer
🎶 The Iconic Theme Song: “Holiday Road”
The series’ signature theme song, “Holiday Road,” was written and performed by Lindsey Buckingham of Fleetwood Mac. Released in 1983, the song became synonymous with the Griswolds’ misadventures.(Wikipedia, EW.com)
Creation Story: Buckingham composed the song specifically for the film, capturing the essence of the Griswold family’s journey. Despite its modest chart performance, the song has remained a beloved classic. (Wikipedia)
🧳 Final Thoughts
The National Lampoon’s Vacation series offers a humorous exploration of family dynamics and the chaos of travel. Each film, with its unique setting and characters, contributes to the overarching narrative of the Griswold family’s misadventures. As DJ iSizzle aptly puts it, these films are “fun comedies that get better with time,” offering timeless humor for audiences of all ages.
Whether you’re revisiting the classics or experiencing them for the first time, the National Lampoon’s Vacation series provides a delightful escape into the world of family vacations gone awry.