Written by Ginger Lydon
Modified & Updated: 10 May 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is a beloved holiday comedy that has become a Christmas tradition for many. Released in 1989, this hilarious film follows the Griswold family as they try to navigate the chaotic and often disastrous events that occur during the holiday season. Starring Chevy Chase as the lovable goofball, Clark Griswold, the movie is filled with memorable moments, zany characters, and plenty of laughs.
In this article, we will take a closer look at 36 fascinating facts about National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. From behind-the-scenes tidbits to interesting trivia about the cast and production, these facts will not only deepen your appreciation for this holiday classic but also provide a fun insight into the making of the movie. So sit back, grab some eggnog, and let’s delve into the world of the Griswold family and their unforgettable Christmas misadventures.
Key Takeaways:
- “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” is a timeless holiday classic filled with hilarious mishaps, heartwarming moments, and the importance of family unity, making it a must-watch for the holiday season.
- The movie’s enduring legacy and cultural impact have solidified its place as one of the most beloved and memorable Christmas movies of all time, inspiring laughter and festive cheer for over three decades.
Christmas Classic:
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is widely regarded as a holiday classic, cherished by audiences for its hilarious and relatable depiction of Christmas chaos.
Release Date:
The movie was released on December 1, 1989, just in time to kick off the holiday season.
A Part of the National Lampoon series:
This movie is the third installment in the National Lampoon’s Vacation series, following “National Lampoon’s Vacation” and “National Lampoon’s European Vacation.”
Box Office Success:
Christmas Vacation was a box office success, grossing over $73 million in North America alone.
John Hughes’ Involvement:
The film was written by John Hughes, known for his knack for capturing the humor and essence of family dynamics.
Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold:
Chevy Chase reprised his role as Clark Griswold, the bumbling yet lovable head of the Griswold family.
Randy Quaid as Cousin Eddie:
Randy Quaid brought hilarious chaos to the screen with his portrayal of Cousin Eddie, a quirky and unpredictable relative.
Quotable Lines:
The movie is filled with memorable and quotable lines, including “Shitter’s full!” and “Why is the carpet all wet, Todd?”
Holiday Traditions:
Christmas Vacation” showcases various holiday traditions, such as trimming the Christmas tree, hanging lights, and exchanging gifts.
The Griswold Family House:
The Griswold family home in the movie is located in a fictional Chicago suburb and has become an iconic symbol of the holiday season.
Clark’s Quest for the Perfect Christmas:
The movie revolves around Clark’s determination to have the perfect Christmas for his family, which leads to a series of comedic mishaps.
The Role of Christmas Lights:
Christmas lights play a crucial role in the movie, with Clark going to extreme lengths to create a dazzling display on his house.
Ellen Griswold’s Support:
Ellen, played by Beverly D’Angelo, serves as the supportive wife to Clark, trying to keep the family together amidst the chaos.
Cousin Rocky and Ruby Sue:
Clark’s nephew and niece, Rocky and Ruby Sue, add an extra layer of comedic charm to the movie.
Hilarious Disasters:
From a squirrel jumping out of a Christmas tree to a sewage explosion, the movie is filled with hilarious disasters that keep audiences laughing.
The One-Legged Christmas Tree:
To add humor to the film, the Griswolds end up with a one-legged Christmas tree, which Clark hilariously tries to hide the defect.
The Neighbors:
The Griswold’s neighbors, Todd and Margo, provide comic relief with their eccentric personalities and their continuous conflict with the Griswolds.
Holiday Bonus:
Clark’s boss promises him a generous Christmas bonus, which adds extra anticipation and comedic elements to the storyline.
The Magical Pool Scene:
A dream sequence featuring Clark’s daydream about a swimming pool brings both comedic relief and a touch of holiday fantasy to the movie.
Family Bonding:
Amidst the chaos, the movie highlights the importance of family bonding during the holiday season.
The Jelly of the Month Club:
Instead of receiving his expected Christmas bonus, Clark receives a subscription to the Jelly of the Month Club. This becomes a running joke throughout the film.
The Famous Rant:
Clark’s frustrated and comical rant about his boss, his family, and his Christmas decorations has become one of the most iconic moments in the movie.
The Cat and the Christmas Tree:
The Griswolds’ mischievous cat, wrapped up in Christmas lights, ends up causing chaos by chasing a squirrel through the Christmas tree.
The Christmas Dinner Disaster:
Clark’s attempts to carve the Christmas turkey are met with catastrophic results, resulting in a hilarious yet disastrous family dinner scene.
Memorable Characters:
The movie introduced us to memorable characters like Aunt Bethany, Uncle Lewis, and the Griswold children, whose antics add to the overall hilarity.
The Theme Song:
The movie’s theme song, “Christmas Vacation” by Mavis Staples, perfectly captures the spirit and excitement of the holiday season.
The Dog in the Attic:
One of the many mishaps in the movie involves the Griswold family forgetting their dog in the attic while leaving to go on vacation.
The Frustrated Neighbors:
The Griswolds’ over-the-top Christmas decorations and mishaps frustrate their neighbors, leading to a neighborhood rivalry.
Clark’s Advent Calendar:
Clark’s advent calendar, which he eagerly opens every day leading up to Christmas, becomes a source of comedic anticipation.
The Grand Finale:
The movie culminates with a grand finale where Clark successfully lights up his house and enjoys a heartwarming moment with his family.
Inspiration for Holiday Decorations:
“Christmas Vacation” has inspired many people to go all out with their holiday decorations, attempting to recreate the Griswold’s iconic display.
Call for Family Unity:
The movie reminds us of the importance of family unity and making the most of the holiday season, even in the face of chaos.
Timeless Humor:
Despite being released over three decades ago, the humor in “Christmas Vacation” remains timeless and continues to resonate with audiences today.
Cultural Impact:
The movie’s cultural impact can be seen through various pop culture references, parodies, and even an annual celebration known as “Griswold Family Christmas.
Enduring Legacy:
“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” has become a beloved holiday staple, earning its place as one of the most memorable and enduring Christmas movies of all time.
A Must-Watch Movie:
With its blend of humor, heart, and timeless appeal, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” is a must-watch movie that captures the spirit of the holiday season.
So, whether you’re cozying up by the fire or preparing for your own chaotic family gathering, make sure to include a viewing of “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” on your holiday movie list. Experience the laughter, warmth, and mayhem that have made it a beloved holiday classic for over three decades.
Conclusion
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is a beloved holiday comedy that has stood the test of time. With its memorable characters, hilarious moments, and heartwarming message, it has become a staple in many households during the festive season. Whether you’re a fan of the Griswold family’s holiday hijinks or simply enjoy a good laugh, this movie never fails to deliver. From the iconic movie quotes to the unforgettable scenes, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation continues to bring joy and laughter to audiences year after year. So grab some eggnog, cozy up by the fireplace, and enjoy this timeless Christmas classic.
FAQs
1. Who directed National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation?
Answer: The movie was directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik.
2. When was National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation released?
Answer: The film was released on December 1, 1989.
3. Who are the main actors in the movie?
Answer: The main cast includes Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, and Randy Quaid.
4. Is National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation a sequel?
Answer: Yes, it is the third installment in the National Lampoon’s Vacation film series.
5. What is the plot of the movie?
Answer: The movie follows the Griswold family as they prepare for and celebrate Christmas, encountering various comedic mishaps along the way.
6. Is National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation suitable for all ages?
Answer: The movie is generally considered suitable for a wide audience, but parental guidance is advised due to some mild language and comedic adult situations.
7. What are some memorable quotes from the movie?
Answer: Some memorable quotes include “Hallelujah! Holy shit! Where’s the Tylenol?” and “Why is the carpet all wet, Todd?” “I don’t know, Margo!”
8. Has National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation won any awards?
Answer: While it didn’t win any major awards, the film has gained a cult following and is often regarded as one of the best Christmas comedies.
9. Are there any other movies in the National Lampoon’s Vacation series?
Answer: Yes, other movies in the series include National Lampoon’s Vacation, National Lampoon’s European Vacation, National Lampoon’s Vegas Vacation, and National Lampoon’s Vacation (2015).
10. Does National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation have a sequel?
Answer: No, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation does not have a direct sequel, but it is often considered part of the larger Vacation film series.
If you enjoyed learning about "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation," why not explore more fascinating facts about other beloved holiday films like "Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town"? Discover the incredible career of comedic legend Chevy Chase, who brought Clark Griswold to life in this classic movie. And for those looking to liven up their next family gathering, check out the captivating world of Twister Moves, the ultimate dance game that's sure to get everyone moving and laughing together.
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