If you’re a fan of the classic holiday movie “Christmas Vacation,” you may have noticed that there are a few different versions out there. In fact, there are several different versions of the film that have been released over the years. Let’s take a closer look at how many versions of “Christmas Vacation” there really are.
The Original Version
The first version of “Christmas Vacation” was released in 1989 and was directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik. This version starred Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold, Beverly D’Angelo as Ellen Griswold, and Randy Quaid as Cousin Eddie. It follows the story of the Griswold family as they prepare for Christmas and all of the chaos that comes with it.
The Theatrical Release
The theatrical release of “Christmas Vacation” is the most widely-known version of the movie. This version was released in theaters in 1989 and is the same version that is shown on television every year during the holiday season. It runs for 97 minutes and includes all of the classic scenes that fans know and love.
The Home Video Release
After its theatrical release, “Christmas Vacation” was released on VHS and DVD. The home video release contains a few minor changes from the theatrical version, but nothing too significant. One notable difference is that some scenes have been extended slightly to include additional jokes or dialogue.
The Television Version
When “Christmas Vacation” airs on television, it is often edited for time and content. Some scenes may be cut or shortened to fit within a certain time slot, and any language or content deemed inappropriate for television may be censored or removed entirely.
The 20th Anniversary Edition
In 2009, a special 20th anniversary edition of “Christmas Vacation” was released on DVD and Blu-ray. This version includes some additional bonus features, such as interviews with the cast and crew, as well as a commentary track with director Jeremiah S.
The “Ultimate Collector’s Edition”
In 2015, a new “ultimate collector’s edition” of “Christmas Vacation” was released on Blu-ray. This version includes all of the bonus features from the 20th anniversary edition, as well as some additional special features. It also comes packaged in a collectible tin box.
Conclusion
So, how many versions of “Christmas Vacation” are there? It depends on how you define “version.”
There are certainly several different releases of the movie, each with its own unique features and changes. However, for most fans, the theatrical release is the definitive version that they know and love. Regardless of which version you prefer, there’s no denying that “Christmas Vacation” is a holiday classic that has stood the test of time.