If you’re a fan of the National Lampoon Vacation movies, you might be wondering just how many movies were made in the franchise. Well, the answer is more than you might think!
Background:
The National Lampoon Vacation series began in 1983 with the release of “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” which starred Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold, a hapless family man who embarks on a disastrous cross-country road trip with his wife and kids. The film was directed by Harold Ramis and written by John Hughes, and it was a box office success that spawned several sequels.
The Movies:
In total, there were five National Lampoon Vacation movies made between 1983 and 2015. Here’s a rundown of each movie:
National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983)
This was the movie that started it all. In “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” Clark Griswold sets out on a road trip to Walley World with his wife Ellen (played by Beverly D’Angelo) and their two kids, Rusty and Audrey. Along the way, they encounter all sorts of obstacles and mishaps that make for a hilarious movie.
National Lampoon’s European Vacation (1985)
Two years after the success of “Vacation,” Chevy Chase returned as Clark Griswold in “European Vacation.” This time, the Griswolds win an all-expenses-paid trip to Europe on a game show. While overseas, they visit London, Paris, Germany, and Rome – but things don’t go exactly as planned.
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
“Christmas Vacation” is perhaps one of the most beloved holiday movies ever made. In this installment of the franchise, Clark tries to create the perfect Christmas for his family, but as you might expect, things don’t go according to plan. The movie also features a memorable performance by Randy Quaid as Cousin Eddie.
Vegas Vacation (1997)
After an eight-year hiatus, the Griswolds returned in “Vegas Vacation.” This time around, Clark decides to take his family on a trip to Las Vegas to celebrate their wedding anniversary. As with the other movies in the series, chaos and hilarity ensue.
Vacation (2015)
The most recent entry in the National Lampoon Vacation series is simply titled “Vacation.” This movie is actually a sequel/reboot that follows Clark’s son Rusty (played by Ed Helms) as he takes his own family on a road trip to Walley World. Chevy Chase and Beverly D’Angelo also make appearances in the movie.
- National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983)
- National Lampoon’s European Vacation (1985)
- National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
- Vegas Vacation (1997)
- Vacation (2015)
In conclusion:
In total, there were five National Lampoon Vacation movies made between 1983 and 2015. Each movie follows the misadventures of the Griswold family as they embark on various trips and vacations. Whether you’re a fan of the original or prefer some of the later installments, there’s no denying that these movies are all hilarious and entertaining in their own way.