What Does Clark Say About His Boss in Christmas Vacation?

By Michael Ferguson

In the classic holiday movie “Christmas Vacation,” Clark Griswold is a man on a mission to create the perfect Christmas for his family. However, his plans are constantly thwarted by various mishaps and the antics of his quirky relatives. Throughout the film, Clark’s relationship with his boss is a source of tension and humor.

At first glance, it may seem like Clark has a lot of negative things to say about his boss. In fact, he refers to him as “the cheapest guy alive” and “a real Scrooge.” However, there’s more to this story than meets the eye.

One of the key moments in the movie comes when Clark receives what he believes is a bonus from his boss. He excitedly shares the news with his family, only to discover that it’s actually a subscription to a jelly-of-the-month club. Disappointed but determined not to let it ruin his holiday spirit, Clark famously declares that he’s going to “take matters into [his] own hands.”

This scene is memorable not just for its comedic value, but also for what it reveals about Clark’s character. Despite being let down by his boss, he refuses to give up on his dream of providing an unforgettable Christmas for his loved ones. His determination and resilience in the face of disappointment are admirable traits that make him easy to root for.

It’s also worth noting that while Clark does make some disparaging comments about his boss throughout the movie, there are moments where he shows empathy and understanding as well. For example, when he overhears a conversation between his boss and one of their clients about financial struggles, he expresses sympathy rather than judgment.

Ultimately, what Clark says about his boss in “Christmas Vacation” speaks more to his own values and personality than anything else. He may not always see eye-to-eye with him or agree with all of his actions, but he never loses sight of what’s truly important: family, love, and the holiday spirit. And in the end, those are the things that truly matter.