Is Manson Family Vacation a Comedy?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you wondering if “Manson Family Vacation” is a comedy? Well, the answer is not as straightforward as you might think.

What is “Manson Family Vacation”?

“Manson Family Vacation” is an independent film directed by J. Davis, released in 2015. The movie tells the story of two estranged brothers, Nick and Conrad, who reunite for a road trip to visit infamous murder sites related to Charles Manson and his followers.

The Comedy Aspect

The movie has been labeled as a “black comedy,” which means it incorporates humor into dark or taboo subjects. In this case, the humor comes from the interactions between the two brothers and their personalities.

Nick (played by Jay Duplass) is the responsible, family-oriented brother while Conrad (played by Linas Phillips) is the free-spirited, thrill-seeking brother. Their clashing personalities create comedic moments throughout the film.

The Dark Undertones

While there are comedic moments in “Manson Family Vacation,” it’s important to note that this movie also deals with heavy themes such as family dysfunction and the impact of violent actions on individuals and society. The scenes where Nick and Conrad visit Manson-related murder sites are particularly intense.

The Director’s Intentions

Director J. Davis has stated in interviews that he wanted to explore how people can become obsessed with true crime stories and how that obsession can affect their relationships with others. He was interested in exploring this through a comedic lens but also wanted to make sure that the darker themes were not overlooked.

Conclusion

So, is “Manson Family Vacation” a comedy? Yes and no.

While it definitely has comedic elements, it also tackles serious subjects with a somber tone at times. Ultimately, whether or not you find it funny will depend on your personal sense of humor and ability to appreciate dark comedy. But if you’re a fan of movies that challenge traditional genres and explore complex themes, then “Manson Family Vacation” is definitely worth a watch.

  • Tip: If you decide to watch “Manson Family Vacation,” make sure to pay attention to the subtext and underlying themes. The movie is more than just a simple comedy.