National Lampoon’s Vacation is a classic comedy movie released in 1983. The movie follows the Griswold family, headed by Clark Griswold (played by Chevy Chase), as they embark on a cross-country road trip from their home in Chicago to the fictional amusement park, Walley World, located in California. The movie was directed by Harold Ramis and written by John Hughes.
Plot
The plot of National Lampoon’s Vacation revolves around Clark’s determination to take his family on a perfect vacation and make it memorable. However, things don’t go as planned from the very beginning of the road trip, and the Griswold family faces one hilarious obstacle after another. From getting lost in the desert to accidentally dragging a dog behind their car, the mishaps keep piling up.
Through all these challenges, Clark remains determined to make it to Walley World and give his family an unforgettable experience. However, when they finally arrive at Walley World, they find out that it is closed for repairs. This leads to a chaotic scene where Clark goes on a rampage and forces his way into the park.
Humor
The humor in National Lampoon’s Vacation is often described as slapstick comedy with some sarcastic undertones. The movie uses physical comedy extensively, with scenes like Clark accidentally driving into a closed car dealership or getting covered in mud while trying to push their car out of the desert sand.
Moreover, the characters’ personalities also add to the humor of the movie. Clark is portrayed as an over-enthusiastic father who wants everything to be perfect but ends up making everything worse. His wife Ellen (Beverly D’Angelo) tries her best to keep things under control but often ends up being dragged into her husband’s wild schemes.
Critical Reception
While National Lampoon’s Vacation has become a cult classic over the years, it received mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics praised the movie’s humor and Chevy Chase’s performance, while others criticized it for being too silly and juvenile.
However, the movie’s box office success (it grossed over $60 million) and its continued popularity through the years have cemented its status as a comedy classic.
Conclusion
In conclusion, National Lampoon’s Vacation is a hilarious comedy movie that has stood the test of time. Its slapstick humor and quirky characters make it an enjoyable watch even after all these years. Whether you’re a fan of Chevy Chase or just looking for a good laugh, National Lampoon’s Vacation is definitely worth checking out.