Is Vacation a True Story?

By Alice Nichols

Vacation is a comedy film that was released in 2015. The movie follows the Griswold family as they embark on a road trip from Chicago to Walley World, a fictional amusement park in California. Along the way, the family encounters a series of mishaps and adventures that test their patience and their relationships with each other.

But is Vacation based on a true story?

The short answer is no. Vacation is not based on a true story. However, the movie does draw inspiration from the original National Lampoon’s Vacation film from 1983, which was loosely based on screenwriter John Hughes’ own family vacations.

Despite not being based on a true story, Vacation still manages to capture the essence of what it’s like to go on a family vacation. The film portrays the ups and downs of traveling with loved ones, from getting lost and dealing with car trouble to bonding over shared experiences.

The Griswold Family

The Griswold family is at the center of Vacation. Clark Griswold, played by Ed Helms, is the father who wants nothing more than to create lasting memories for his family.

His wife Debbie, played by Christina Applegate, is skeptical but supportive of Clark’s plans. Their two sons James and Kevin are typical teenagers who would rather be anywhere else but stuck in a car with their parents.

The Road Trip

The road trip itself serves as both the setting and plot device for Vacation. The Griswolds encounter numerous obstacles along the way, including getting lost in Texas and having their car stolen in Arizona. But despite these setbacks, they manage to persevere thanks to their determination and love for each other.

The Humor

One of Vacation’s strengths is its ability to balance humor with heart. The film pokes fun at everything from theme parks to social media, while still managing to deliver moments of genuine emotion. The performances from the cast also add to the film’s comedic appeal, with standout performances from Helms and Applegate.

  • So no, Vacation is not based on a true story.
  • But the film still manages to capture the essence of what it’s like to go on a family vacation.
  • The Griswold family serves as the heart of the film, with their road trip serving as both the setting and plot device.
  • Vacation strikes a balance between humor and heart, making it an enjoyable and relatable watch for anyone who has gone on a family vacation.

In conclusion, while Vacation is not based on a true story, it still manages to capture the essence of what it’s like to go on a family vacation. The film’s humor and heart make it an enjoyable watch for anyone who has ever embarked on a road trip with their loved ones.