Is National Lampoon’s Vacation Inappropriate?

By Alice Nichols

National Lampoon’s Vacation is a classic comedy film that has been entertaining audiences since its release in 1983. The movie follows the Griswold family as they embark on a disastrous road trip to the fictional amusement park, Walley World.

While the film has received critical acclaim and is regarded as one of the best comedies of all time, there are some who argue that it is inappropriate for certain audiences. In this article, we will examine the arguments for and against National Lampoon’s Vacation being inappropriate.

The Arguments Against:
One of the main arguments against National Lampoon’s Vacation is that it contains explicit language and sexual content. The movie features numerous scenes with foul language, crude humor, and sexual innuendos. Some people believe that this type of content is not suitable for children or young adults.

Another argument against the movie is that it portrays negative stereotypes of certain groups. For example, there are scenes in which African American characters are shown as criminals and Hispanic characters are shown as maids or gardeners. Some viewers feel that these portrayals are offensive and perpetuate harmful stereotypes.

The Arguments For:
On the other hand, many argue that National Lampoon’s Vacation is a harmless comedy that should be enjoyed by all ages. While the film does contain some explicit content, it is not excessive or gratuitous. In fact, many viewers find the humor to be clever and witty.

Furthermore, some argue that the negative stereotypes portrayed in the movie are meant to be satirical rather than harmful. The Griswold family themselves are portrayed as bumbling fools who make poor decisions throughout their road trip. The film uses humor to poke fun at these stereotypes rather than reinforce them.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, whether or not National Lampoon’s Vacation is inappropriate depends largely on personal opinions and values. While some may find its language and content offensive, others may see it as harmless fun. Ultimately, it is up to individual viewers to decide whether or not they want to watch the movie.

Regardless of one’s opinion on its appropriateness, National Lampoon’s Vacation remains a classic comedy that has stood the test of time. Its clever writing, memorable characters, and hilarious scenes make it a must-see for anyone who loves a good laugh.