National Lampoon’s Vacation is a classic comedy movie that has been entertaining audiences for decades. Created by John Hughes and directed by Harold Ramis, this movie is a true gem that tells the story of the Griswold family’s cross-country trip to Walley World.
But how old is National Lampoon’s Vacation? Let’s take a closer look.
The Release Date
National Lampoon’s Vacation was released on July 29, 1983. That means it’s been over 38 years since the movie first hit theaters. Despite being released so long ago, the movie has stood the test of time and remains a beloved classic to this day.
The Plot
The plot of National Lampoon’s Vacation revolves around Clark Griswold (played by Chevy Chase) and his attempts to take his family on a memorable road trip to Walley World, an amusement park located in California. Along the way, they encounter a series of mishaps and misadventures that test their patience and resolve.
The Cast
The cast of National Lampoon’s Vacation features several notable actors who have gone on to achieve great success in Hollywood. Chevy Chase plays the lead role of Clark Griswold, while Beverly D’Angelo plays his wife Ellen. Other notable cast members include Anthony Michael Hall as Rusty Griswold and Randy Quaid as Cousin Eddie.
The Legacy
Despite being released over three decades ago, National Lampoon’s Vacation remains a cultural touchstone that has spawned several sequels and spin-offs. The original movie was so successful that it led to four sequels: European Vacation (1985), Christmas Vacation (1989), Vegas Vacation (1997), and most recently, Vacation (2015).
- European Vacation: This sequel follows the Griswold family as they travel to Europe for a vacation.
- Christmas Vacation: This holiday-themed sequel takes place during the Christmas season and features the Griswolds hosting their extended family for the holidays.
- Vegas Vacation: In this sequel, the Griswold family travels to Las Vegas for a vacation filled with gambling and other misadventures.
- Vacation: This 2015 reboot of the original movie features Ed Helms as Rusty Griswold, who is now grown up and taking his own family on a road trip to Walley World.
The Impact
National Lampoon’s Vacation has had a significant impact on popular culture since its release in 1983. The movie has been referenced in countless TV shows, movies, and other media, and has become synonymous with the concept of a disastrous family road trip. The movie’s success also helped launch Chevy Chase’s career as a leading man in Hollywood.
In Conclusion
National Lampoon’s Vacation is over 38 years old, but it remains an enduring classic that continues to entertain audiences of all ages. With its memorable characters, hilarious plot, and iconic moments, this movie is sure to remain a beloved favorite for decades to come.