Written by Maribeth Houser
Modified & Updated: 02 Oct 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
National Lampoon’s Vacation is a classic comedy film that has delighted audiences since its release in 1983. Directed by Harold Ramis and written by John Hughes, this hilarious movie follows the misadventures of the Griswold family as they embark on a cross-country road trip to the fictional amusement park, Walley World. Starring Chevy Chase as the bumbling and well-intentioned patriarch, Clark Griswold, the film captures the essence of family dysfunction and the trials and tribulations of vacationing together. Packed with unforgettable characters, outrageous scenarios, and laugh-out-loud moments, National Lampoon’s Vacation has become a beloved cult classic. In this article, we will delve into 36 fascinating facts about the movie that you may not know. So buckle up, grab some snacks, and get ready to join the Griswolds on their unforgettable Vacation!
Key Takeaways:
- National Lampoon’s Vacation is a classic comedy inspired by a short story. It follows the Griswold family on a hilarious road trip, showcasing the ups and downs of family travel and the importance of bonding.
- Chevy Chase’s iconic role as Clark Griswold and the memorable “Holiday Road” song make National Lampoon’s Vacation a must-watch. The movie’s quirky traditions and unforgettable quotes add to its timeless appeal.
The Inspiration
The movie National Lampoon’s Vacation was inspired by a short story called “Vacation ’58” written by John Hughes for National Lampoon magazine.
Box Office Success
The movie was a box office success, grossing over $61 million in North America, making it one of the highest-grossing comedies of the year.
Chevy Chase’s Iconic Role
Chevy Chase played the role of Clark Griswold, which became one of his most iconic characters. His portrayal of the bumbling yet well-intentioned father added a comedic touch to the film.
Holiday Road
The song “Holiday Road” by Lindsey Buckingham was featured prominently in the movie and became synonymous with National Lampoon’s Vacation. Its catchy melody and lyrics captured the essence of the road trip experience.
Family Road Trip
The movie follows the Griswold family on their cross-country road trip from Chicago to the fictional amusement park called “Walley World” in California.
Directed by Harold Ramis
The movie was directed by Harold Ramis, a renowned director known for his work on comedy films such as Ghostbusters and Groundhog Day.
Clark’s Cousin Eddie
Randy Quaid portrayed the character of Cousin Eddie, Clark’s slightly eccentric and unpredictable relative. Eddie’s antics provided plenty of comedic moments throughout the movie.
Not Suitable for Children
The movie is rated R due to its adult content and language. It is not recommended for young audiences.
A Series of Vacation Movies
National Lampoon’s Vacation spawned a series of sequels and spin-offs, including European Vacation, Christmas Vacation, Vegas Vacation, and a reboot titled Vacation.
John Candy’s Cameo
John Candy made a memorable cameo appearance as Wally World’s security guard. His interactions with the Griswold family added an extra layer of humor to the film.
The Aunt Edna Scene
One of the most memorable scenes in the movie involves the Griswold family taking a detour to drop off Aunt Edna’s body at her son’s house. This darkly comedic moment adds an unexpected twist to their already chaotic journey.
The “Moosen” Scene
In one scene, Clark Griswold shares a hilarious misinterpretation of the plural form of “moose.” His confusion and subsequent argument with his family over the word’s correct usage provide a humorous interlude during their trip.
The Station Wagon
The Griswold family travels in a green station wagon nicknamed “The Family Truckster.” This distinctive and unconventional vehicle has become iconic in its own right.
Filming Locations
The movie was primarily filmed on location in California and Colorado, capturing the diverse landscapes and landmarks along the Griswolds’ journey.
The Inspiration for Cousin Eddie’s Character
Randy Quaid’s portrayal of Cousin Eddie was based on a real-life person that screenwriter John Hughes knew, who had similar eccentricities and mannerisms.
The Original Title
The movie was originally released under the title “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” but it is often referred to simply as “Vacation.”
Critical Reception
The movie received mixed reviews from critics upon its release, but its popularity has grown over the years, becoming a cult classic in the comedy genre.
The Hoover Dam Scene
A memorable scene from the movie takes place at the Hoover Dam, where Clark Griswold tries to recreate a classic movie moment by giving a dramatic speech.
The Original Alligator Scene
The original script included a scene where the Griswold family encounters an alligator during their trip. However, due to budget constraints, the scene was ultimately cut from the film.
The Walley World Roller Coaster
The roller coaster featured in the movie’s climax was a real roller coaster called the “Revolution” located at the Six Flags Magic Mountain amusement park in California.
The Family Bonding Theme
At its core, National Lampoon’s Vacation is a story about family and the importance of spending quality time together. The humor and mishaps along the way serve to highlight the Griswold family’s journey towards stronger bonds.
The Opening Credits
The movie’s opening credits include a montage of vintage family vacation photos, setting the tone for the quirky and relatable adventures that lie ahead.
The “Griswold House”
The exterior shots of the Griswold family house were filmed in a real residential neighborhood in Los Angeles. The house became an iconic symbol of the movie.
Chevy Chase’s Improvisation
Chevy Chase improvised many of his lines throughout the movie, adding to the comedic spontaneity of his character.
The Grand Canyon Scene
The Griswold family makes a stop at the Grand Canyon during their road trip, highlighting the awe-inspiring beauty of this natural wonder.
The Risks of Road Trips
National Lampoon’s Vacation highlights the potential pitfalls and unexpected events that can arise during a long road trip, serving as a cautionary and comedic tale for travelers.
Cultural Impact
The movie has had a lasting cultural impact, with references and nods to National Lampoon’s Vacation appearing in various other movies, TV shows, and even popular music.
The Family Dysfunctions
The movie explores the relatable dynamics within a dysfunctional family, showcasing the different personalities and conflicts that arise during a shared adventure.
The “Six Flags” Scene
One scene in the movie involves the Griswold family accidentally entering an unfamiliar neighborhood and finding themselves in a rather amusing and chaotic situation.
The Talented Cast
In addition to Chevy Chase and Randy Quaid, the movie also features talented actors such as Beverly D’Angelo, Anthony Michael Hall, and Christie Brinkley in supporting roles.
The Family Pet
The Griswold family takes their pet dog, named “Dinky,” along on their road trip. The dog adds a dose of charm and humor to the family’s misadventures.
A Summer Vacation Classic
National Lampoon’s Vacation has become a classic representation of the summer vacation experience, with its humorous portrayal of the ups and downs of family travel.
The Quest for Fun
Throughout the movie, Clark Griswold is determined to provide his family with the perfect vacation filled with fun and excitement, although his plans often go awry.
The Traffic Jam Scene
In one memorable scene, the Griswold family finds themselves stuck in a never-ending traffic jam, heightening the frustration and humor of their journey.
The Family’s Quirky Traditions
The Griswold family has their own set of peculiar traditions, which are showcased throughout the movie. These traditions add to the comedic and relatable nature of their journey.
The Unforgettable Quotes
National Lampoon’s Vacation is known for its quotable lines, such as Clark Griswold’s famous exclamation, “We’re not on the wrong road, we’re on a different road!” These memorable quotes have become ingrained in pop culture.
Conclusion
National Lampoon’s Vacation is a timeless comedy that has captivated audiences for decades. With its hilarious script, unforgettable characters, and iconic moments, the film has become a classic in the comedy genre. From its memorable road trip storyline to the comical mishaps that the Griswold family encounters along the way, National Lampoon’s Vacation continues to be a fan favorite.
Whether you’re laughing at Clark Griswold’s relentless determination to have the perfect family vacation or sympathizing with the chaotic adventures they face, this movie never fails to entertain. So, sit back, relax, and join the Griswold family on their wild ride as they navigate through hilarious obstacles and create everlasting memories.
FAQs
1. Who directed National Lampoon’s Vacation?
Harold Ramis directed National Lampoon’s Vacation.
2. When was National Lampoon’s Vacation released?
National Lampoon’s Vacation was released in 1983.
3. Who are the main actors in National Lampoon’s Vacation?
The main actors in National Lampoon’s Vacation are Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, and Anthony Michael Hall.
4. Is National Lampoon’s Vacation part of a series?
Yes, National Lampoon’s Vacation is the first movie in a series of comedies featuring the Griswold family.
5. What is the movie’s storyline?
National Lampoon’s Vacation follows the Griswold family as they embark on a cross-country trip to the fictional amusement park, Walley World.
6. Is National Lampoon’s Vacation suitable for all audiences?
The movie is rated R due to its adult humor and some explicit language, so parental discretion is advised.
7. Has National Lampoon’s Vacation won any awards?
While it didn’t win any major awards, National Lampoon’s Vacation has become a beloved comedy and has gained a significant cult following.
8. Is National Lampoon’s Vacation available for streaming online?
Yes, National Lampoon’s Vacation is available on various streaming platforms, such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
9. Are the sequels to National Lampoon’s Vacation worth watching?
Each sequel in the series brings its own dose of comedy and may be enjoyed by fans of the original movie. However, opinions may vary.
10. Can I watch National Lampoon’s Vacation with my family?
Due to its mature content, it is advised to exercise parental discretion when watching National Lampoon’s Vacation with younger viewers.
If you enjoyed learning about "National Lampoon's Vacation," there's plenty more to discover! Dive into the hilarious world of Chevy Chase, the film's iconic star. Explore another classic family vacation comedy with "The Great Outdoors." And if you're feeling adventurous, embark on a road trip of your own with our fascinating facts about hitting the open road.
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