If you’re a fan of holiday movies, you might have come across the classic Christmas comedy, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”. However, you may have noticed that despite its cheerful and innocent holiday theme, it is rated R. This has left many viewers wondering why such a beloved movie isn’t suitable for all ages. Let’s dive into the reasons why.
What is National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation All About?
“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” is a 1989 American comedy film directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik and written by John Hughes. The movie features Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold, a well-meaning but accident-prone father who tries to create the perfect holiday experience for his family. However, things don’t go as planned when his extended family shows up unannounced and causes chaos throughout the house.
Reasons Why National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is Rated R
Despite its seemingly harmless plotline, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” has been rated R due to some adult themes and language used throughout the film. Here are some of the reasons why:
1. Strong Language
One of the main reasons for the movie’s rating is its strong language.
Throughout the film, there are frequent uses of profanity, including several instances of using ‘f-words’. This kind of language is not suitable for younger audiences.
2. Sexual References
The movie includes several sexual references in dialogues and scenes that make it inappropriate for children. One such scene involves Clark daydreaming about a woman in a revealing outfit while swimming in his pool.
3. Brief Nudity
While there isn’t any explicit nudity in the movie, there are a few scenes that include brief moments of partial nudity that aren’t suitable for younger audiences.
4. Substance Abuse
There are a few instances of substance abuse in the movie that may not be appropriate for children. In one scene, Clark’s cousin Eddie is shown drinking heavily and smoking a cigar while driving.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” is rated R due to its strong language, sexual references, brief nudity, and substance abuse. While it remains a beloved holiday classic for many adults, it is important to exercise discretion before allowing children to watch it. By understanding the reasons why the movie has been rated R, you can make an informed decision about whether or not it’s appropriate for your family.