National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation

Synopsis: As the holidays approach, Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase) wants to have a perfect family Christmas, so he pesters his wife, Ellen (Beverly D'Angelo), and children, as he tries to make sure everything is in line, including the tree and house decorations. However, things go awry quickly. His hick cousin, Eddie (Randy Quaid), and his family show up unplanned and start living in their camper on the Griswold property. Even worse, Clark's employers renege on the holiday bonus he needs.

Movie Review:

“National Lampoons Christmas Vacation” was directed by Jeremiah S. Chechick and is the third film in the Vacation franchise. Even though this is not as good as the classic first movie, it is a traditional holiday movie viewed by families each year. Both Chevy Chase and Beverly D’Angelo return as Clark and Ellen Griswold and they are funny as ever. I think that Beverly D’ Angelo was perfectly cast opposite Chevy Chase. Their on- screen chemistry and comedic timing as a couple is one of a kind to watch. Nobody plays clumsiness and arrogance like Chevy Chase as Clark. From his dialogue to facial expressions, every scene he is in he is hilarious. Clark’s good-hearted nature and overboard personality are seen through all his family relationships. This time Russel and Audrey are played by Johnny Galekcki and Juilette Lewis and they fit right in as the Griswold teenagers. Two new characters are introduced as Clark’s neighbors and Julie Louis Dreyfus and Nicholas Guest are a wonderful addition. They are snobby, mean, and talk down to Clark. I also like the addition of Brian Doyle Murray as Frank Shirley Clark’s boss. He is a typical grinch-like rich guy and his story turns into an interesting sub plot and makes sense for the main plot. Randy Quaid returns as the funny Cousin Eddie. Real comedic talents, Quaid and Chase are amazing together and some of their scenes are the most memorable. There are a few scenes that go on too long or could have been edited out like Clark sledding. But I still love this movie and watch it every Christmas. I am giving “National Lampoons Christmas Vacation” 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Director: Jeremiah S. Chechick

Cast: Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, Johnny Galecki, Juliette Lewis, Randy Quaid, Diane Ladd, Miriam Flynn, Doris Roberts, Ellen Hamilton Latzen, John Randolph, Brian Doyle-Murray with Julia Louis Dreyfus and Nicholas Guest

Runtime: 97 minutes