Written by Sile Gunter
Modified & Updated: 10 Oct 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
The Great Outdoors is a classic comedy film that continues to captivate audiences with its hilarious and memorable moments. Released in 1988, this movie stars the dynamic duo of John Candy and Dan Aykroyd, two comedic powerhouses who bring their own unique brand of humor to the screen. Set against the backdrop of a family vacation in the great outdoors, this film takes viewers on a wild ride filled with mishaps, misunderstandings, and belly laughs. In this article, we’ll delve into 46 fascinating facts about The Great Outdoors that will shed light on the making of this beloved comedy, the incredible performances of the cast, and the enduring popularity of this timeless film. So sit back, relax, and get ready to embark on a journey through the hilarious world of The Great Outdoors!
Key Takeaways:
- The Great Outdoors, released in 1988, is a hilarious family vacation movie featuring iconic comedic moments, a bear encounter, and beautiful outdoor landscapes, making it a timeless comedy classic.
- The movie emphasizes family unity, the joy of outdoor activities, and the importance of quality family time, providing a lighthearted escape with a perfect mix of humor and heart.
Released in 1988
The Great Outdoors, directed by Howard Deutch, was released in 1988 and became a beloved comedy film.
Starring Dan Aykroyd and John Candy
The movie features the comedic talents of Dan Aykroyd and John Candy, who play two brothers-in-law on a family vacation.
Written by John Hughes
The Great Outdoors was written by renowned filmmaker John Hughes, known for his work on other comedic hits like Home Alone and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.
Filmed on location in California
The movie was primarily filmed on location in the beautiful settings of Bass Lake and Mammoth Lakes, California.
Offers a hilarious take on family vacations
The Great Outdoors humorously captures the typical ups and downs of a family vacation, providing plenty of laughs along the way.
Features iconic comedic moments
The film includes memorable comedic scenes, such as the raccoon chase and the water ski mishap, which have become fan favorites.
Includes a bear encounter
One of the most memorable moments in the film is when the characters encounter a bear while enjoying their outdoor activities.
Showcases the beautiful outdoor landscapes
The Great Outdoors showcases the stunning natural beauty of the California wilderness, immersing viewers in the splendor of nature.
Explores family dynamics
The movie delves into the complexities of family relationships, highlighting both the joys and challenges that come with spending time together.
Balances comedy with heartfelt moments
While it is primarily a comedy, The Great Outdoors also has touching and relatable moments that tug at the heartstrings.
Features a memorable cast of characters
In addition to the main characters played by Dan Aykroyd and John Candy, the film boasts a talented supporting cast that adds depth and humor to the story.
Became a box office success
The Great Outdoors received positive reception and went on to become a box office hit, grossing over $43 million worldwide.
Has gained a cult following
Over the years, the movie has gained a dedicated fan base who continue to enjoy its comedic charm and nostalgic appeal.
Soundtrack includes classic summer tunes
The film’s soundtrack features a collection of catchy songs that perfectly complement the summer vacation theme.
Provides a lighthearted escape
The Great Outdoors offers audiences a lighthearted escape from their everyday lives, allowing them to laugh and relax during the viewing experience.
Showcases the comedic chemistry between Aykroyd and Candy
Dan Aykroyd and John Candy’s comedic chemistry shines through in their performances, making their on-screen relationship a joy to watch.
Includes hilarious fishing mishaps
The movie’s fishing scenes provide plenty of comedic moments, from failed attempts to catch fish to unexpected predicaments.
Explores themes of adventure and exploration
The Great Outdoors encourages viewers to embrace adventure and explore the great outdoors, highlighting the joy and excitement that can be found in nature.
Features laugh-out-loud dialogue
The witty and humorous dialogue in the movie ensures that there are plenty of laugh-out-loud moments throughout the film.
Highlights the importance of family bonds
Amidst the comedic chaos, The Great Outdoors emphasizes the value of strong family bonds and the power of love and forgiveness.
Includes a memorable water park scene
The water park scene, with its comedic mishaps and outrageous water slides, has become a standout moment in the movie.
Celebrates the joys of outdoor activities
The Great Outdoors showcases various outdoor activities, such as camping, fishing, and waterskiing, reminding viewers of the simple pleasures of being in nature.
Offers a fun cinematic escape
Watching The Great Outdoors provides a fun cinematic escape, transporting viewers to a world of humor and adventure.
Includes memorable quotes
The film is known for its quotable lines, with phrases like “Big Bear Chase Me!” and “The Old ’96er” becoming iconic within popular culture.
Highlights the challenges of unplugging from technology
The Great Outdoors humorously depicts the struggles of disconnecting from the digital world and embracing a technology-free vacation.
Offers a mix of physical comedy and witty banter
The movie strikes a balance between physical comedy, with hilarious slapstick moments, and quick-witted banter between characters.
Features the iconic “bear story”
John Candy’s character shares a tall tale about a bear encounter, resulting in a humorous and exaggerated storytelling session.
Explores generational differences
The Great Outdoors touches upon the generation gap, highlighting the contrasting views and approaches to life between different family members.
Showcases the beauty of lakeside living
The film’s setting near the tranquil lake serves as a picturesque backdrop, adding to the overall charm of the story.
Features comedic misunderstandings and mishaps
Misunderstandings and unexpected mishaps create comedic tension throughout the movie, generating laughter and entertainment for viewers.
Remains a family-friendly comedy
The Great Outdoors is a family-friendly comedy that can be enjoyed by viewers of all ages, making it a perfect choice for movie nights.
Includes a competitive water skiing scene
The movie showcases a hilarious water skiing competition between the characters, adding an element of rivalry and comedy to the storyline.
Highlights the unpredictability of nature
Through various encounters with wildlife and extreme weather, The Great Outdoors highlights the unpredictability and awe-inspiring aspects of nature.
Pays homage to classic vacation comedies
The Great Outdoors pays tribute to the tradition of vacation comedies, following in the footsteps of films like National Lampoon’s Vacation.
Provides a feel-good movie experience
The movie’s combination of humor, heartwarming moments, and ultimately happy ending provides viewers with a feel-good movie experience.
Celebrates the joy of family traditions
The Great Outdoors highlights the importance of family traditions, whether they involve fishing trips or annual summer vacations.
Recognized for its comedic timing
The film’s comedic timing and impeccable delivery contribute to its enduring popularity and status as a classic comedy.
Showcases the excitement of adventure sports
The Great Outdoors captures the thrill and excitement of outdoor adventure sports, such as jet skiing and whitewater rafting.
Pokes fun at common vacation mishaps
The movie humorously portrays mishaps that are often experienced during family vacations, making it relatable and entertaining for audiences.
Features an iconic bear-infested cabin scene
The bear-infested cabin scene, filled with chaos and slapstick comedy, has become one of the most memorable moments in the film.
Celebrates the beauty of the great outdoors
The movie encourages viewers to appreciate the beauty of nature and inspires a desire to explore the wonders of the great outdoors.
Emphasizes the importance of family unity
Amidst the comedic chaos, The Great Outdoors sends a heartwarming message about the power of family unity and overcoming challenges together.
Showcases John Candy’s comedic brilliance
John Candy’s performance in The Great Outdoors highlights his comedic brilliance and his ability to effortlessly evoke laughter from audiences.
Perfect combination of humor and heart
The movie masterfully combines humor and heart, creating a film that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant.
Promotes the importance of quality family time
The Great Outdoors reminds viewers of the significance of spending quality time with family and creating lasting memories.
A timeless comedy that continues to entertain
The Great Outdoors remains a timeless comedy that continues to entertain audiences with its timeless humor and universal themes.
Conclusion
The Great Outdoors is a classic comedy film that has stood the test of time. With its hilarious storylines, memorable characters, and relatable moments, it continues to entertain audiences to this day. Whether you’re a fan of John Candy’s comedic genius or appreciate the beauty of the great outdoors, this movie has something for everyone.
The film showcases the importance of family, the need for adventure, and the lessons we learn along the way. From the mishaps at the lake to the encounters with wildlife, The Great Outdoors takes us on a wild journey filled with laughter.
So, grab some popcorn, gather your loved ones, and prepare for a rollercoaster of laughter and heartwarming moments. Watch The Great Outdoors and let this timeless gem remind you of the joys of family, nature, and the great outdoors.
FAQs
Q: Who directed The Great Outdoors?
A: The Great Outdoors was directed by Howard Deutch.
Q: When was The Great Outdoors released?
A: The Great Outdoors was released on June 17, 1988.
Q: Who are the main actors in The Great Outdoors?
A: The film stars John Candy, Dan Aykroyd, Annette Bening, and Stephanie Faracy.
Q: What is the storyline of The Great Outdoors?
A: The movie follows the adventures of a family on a summer vacation in a lakeside cabin, where they encounter a series of hilarious and unforgettable mishaps.
Q: Is The Great Outdoors suitable for all ages?
A: The Great Outdoors is generally considered suitable for audiences of all ages, but there may be some mild language and comedic situations that parents may want to be aware of.
Q: Is The Great Outdoors based on a true story?
A: No, The Great Outdoors is not based on a true story. It is a fictional comedy film.
Q: Did The Great Outdoors receive any awards?
A: The film did not receive any major awards, but it has gained a cult following and has been praised for its comedic performances.
If you enjoyed learning about "The Great Outdoors," why not explore more fascinating facts about the film's star, Dan Aykroyd? Discover how this classic comedy captures the essence of family vacations and the hilarious mishaps that often accompany them. For more laughs, check out our article on "National Lampoon's Vacation," another beloved vacation comedy that's sure to entertain.
Was this page helpful?
Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.