If you’re a fan of the classic holiday movie, Christmas Vacation, you may have found yourself wondering whether the squirrel scene was real or not. In this article, we’ll explore the truth behind this memorable moment in the film.
What is Christmas Vacation?
Firstly, let’s give a brief introduction to Christmas Vacation. Released in 1989, it’s a comedy film that follows the story of Clark Griswold and his attempts to create the perfect Christmas for his family. The movie has become a holiday classic and is beloved by many for its humor and heartwarming moments.
The Squirrel Scene
In one of the most memorable scenes from the movie, Clark unknowingly brings a squirrel into his home when he cuts down a tree from outside. Chaos ensues as the squirrel wreaks havoc throughout the house, causing Clark and his family to flee in terror.
Was the Squirrel Real?
Now, let’s get to the burning question – was the squirrel scene real or not? The answer is yes and no. While there was indeed a live squirrel used during filming, most of what we see on screen was actually achieved through special effects.
The production team used animatronics and puppetry to create some of the more complex shots of the squirrel running around and causing chaos. These techniques allowed them to control the movements of the animal more precisely than if they had used a live squirrel.
However, there are still some shots where a real squirrel was used. For example, when Clark is trying to catch it with a coat over his head – that was all done with an actual live squirrel!
The Challenges of Filming with Animals
Filming with animals can be challenging for many reasons. They don’t always behave as expected, which can cause delays in production or require multiple takes to get just one shot. There are also concerns for the safety of the animal and the actors involved.
In the case of Christmas Vacation, the production team went to great lengths to ensure that the live squirrel was treated well and not put in any danger. They worked with a professional animal trainer who helped prepare the squirrel for its role in the movie.
In Conclusion
So, there you have it – while there was a live squirrel used during filming, most of what we see on screen was achieved through special effects. The use of animatronics and puppetry allowed for more control over the movements of the squirrel, while still maintaining a level of realism.
Regardless of whether or not the squirrel was real, there’s no denying that this scene is one of the most memorable moments from Christmas Vacation. It’s just one example of how this movie has become a beloved holiday classic that continues to bring joy to audiences year after year.