Who Owns the Rights to Christmas Vacation?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re a fan of the classic Christmas movie, “Christmas Vacation,” you may have wondered who owns the rights to this holiday favorite. The answer is not as straightforward as you might think. Let’s take a closer look at the history of this beloved film and its ownership.

Background and Production

“Christmas Vacation” was released in 1989 and directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik, with a screenplay written by John Hughes. The film follows the Griswold family as they navigate the ups and downs of the holiday season, with plenty of hilarious mishaps along the way.

The movie starred Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold, Beverly D’Angelo as Ellen Griswold, and Randy Quaid as Cousin Eddie. It was produced by John Hughes’ production company, Hughes Entertainment, and distributed by Warner Bros.

Ownership

While Hughes Entertainment produced “Christmas Vacation,” it’s not entirely clear who currently owns the rights to the film. In 2007, Warner Bros. released a special edition DVD of the movie that featured an empty chair on the cover in tribute to Hughes, who had passed away earlier that year.

However, some reports suggest that National Lampoon may have acquired the rights to “Christmas Vacation” at some point after its release. National Lampoon is a media company that was founded in 1970 and is known for producing comedy films such as “Animal House” and “Vacation.”

It’s possible that National Lampoon purchased the rights from Hughes Entertainment or Warner Bros., but there’s no official confirmation of this. Nonetheless, National Lampoon has continued to promote “Christmas Vacation” over the years through merchandise sales and other marketing efforts.

Legacy

Regardless of who currently owns the rights to “Christmas Vacation,” there’s no denying that this movie has become a staple of the holiday season. Its witty humor and relatable family dynamics have resonated with audiences for decades, making it a perennial favorite.

In fact, “Christmas Vacation” has spawned a variety of spin-offs and sequels, including “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation 2: Cousin Eddie’s Island Adventure” and “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation 3: The Griswolds Get Real.”

Moreover, the film has become a cultural touchstone, with references to its iconic scenes and quotes appearing in everything from TV shows to holiday decorations. It’s clear that “Christmas Vacation” will continue to be a beloved part of the holiday season for years to come.

Conclusion

While it’s not entirely clear who owns the rights to “Christmas Vacation,” there’s no denying that this movie has become an enduring classic. Its timeless humor and heartwarming message have made it a beloved favorite among audiences of all ages.

Whether you’re watching it for the first time or the hundredth time, “Christmas Vacation” is sure to put you in the holiday spirit. So if you haven’t seen it yet this year, grab some popcorn and settle in for a fun-filled ride with the Griswold family.