National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation has become a beloved holiday classic since opening in theaters on Dec. 1, 1989 and its 35th anniversary is a testament to its enduring popularity. This comedic gem, starring Chevy Chase as the hapless yet endearing Clark Griswold, continues to bring laughter and joy to audiences year after year.
The third installment in National Lampoon magazine’s Vacation film series was based on John Hughes‘ short story Christmas ’59 that was published in National Lampoon in the December 1980 issue, the film tells the story of Griswold’s efforts to have a good old-fashioned family Christmas.
Chase’s portrayal of the overzealous and perpetually unlucky Clark is iconic. His comedic timing and physical humor are on full display as he navigates a series of holiday misadventures, from a disastrous Christmas tree to a chaotic family gathering. Randy Quaid’s portrayal of the eccentric Cousin Eddie is another standout performance, providing plenty of laughs with his crude humor and infectious energy.
Supporting Cast
One of the film’s greatest strengths is its ensemble cast. Beverly D’Angelo shines as the patient and understanding Ellen Griswold, while Juliette Lewis and Johnny Galecki deliver memorable performances as the Griswold’s teenage children, Audrey and Rusty.
Lewis would go on to have memorable roles in Cape Fear (1991) starring Robert DeNiro and Nick Nolte, Natural Born Killers (1994) with Woody Harrelson, The Basketball Diaries (1995) with Leonardo DiCaprio and Mark Wahlberg, Old School (2003) starring Vince Vaughn, Luke Wilson and Will Ferrell, August: Osage County (2013) with Julia Roberts and Meryl Streep and the NBC television series of John Grisham’s The Firm.
Galcki’s career took off after his role in this hit film, with roles in I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997), Vanilla Sky (2001) starring Tom Cruise, Hancock (2008) starring Will Smith, culminating with the iconic series The Big Bang Theory (2007-2019).
Julia Louis-Dreyfuss and Nicholas Guest shine as the Griswolds’ yuppie neighbors, Margo and Todd Chester.
Nicolette Scorsese also makes a memorable appearance as the sales clerk at the mall, adding to the film’s chaotic energy.
Nicolette Scorsese in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (Photo/Warner Bros.)
Reception for National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
Christmas Vacation opened at No.2 at the box office with $11.8 million, trailing Back to the Future Part II, which pulled in $12.1. million in its second weekend and topping Harlem Nights starring Eddie Murphy and Richard Pryor, which came in at No. 3 with $5.2 million.
The film would eventually gross $71.3 million in its initial theatrical run.
In 2003, NBC aired a spin-off called National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation 2 which featured Cousin Eddie’s family on a Christmas vacation in the South Pacific.
Vegas Vacation, would follow in 1997, without the involvement of either Hughes or National Lampoon.
Legacy
Christmas Vacation is more than just a comedy; it’s a nostalgic trip back to a simpler time. The film’s heartwarming message of family and togetherness resonates with viewers, making it a perfect choice for holiday viewing. From the iconic “Cousin Eddie” scenes to the hilarious Christmas light mishap, Christmas Vacation is filled with unforgettable moments that continue to bring laughter and joy to viewers.
As we celebrate the 35th anniversary of this timeless classic, it’s clear that Christmas Vacation will continue to bring joy and laughter to generations to come.
