National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
1989 · Directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik
Clark Griswold tries to host a perfect family Christmas. The lights don't work, the tree catches fire, Cousin Eddie shows up. Annual rewatch obligation since 1989.
Why It's Cult
Christmas Vacation is the most-rewatched holiday movie not named It's a Wonderful Life — it runs on basic cable from Thanksgiving to New Year's and never wears out. Chevy Chase at his manic best. Randy Quaid as Cousin Eddie emptying the RV septic tank into the storm drain. The squirrel. The boss-kidnapping. The Christmas-bonus rant. John Hughes wrote it; that's why every disaster lands with real family-stress recognition. Quote it without context and somebody at the table will finish your sentence.
The Plot, Officially
It's Christmas time and the Griswolds are preparing for a family seasonal celebration, but things never run smoothly for Clark, his wife Ellen and their two kids. Clark's continual bad luck is worsened by his obnoxious family guests, but he manages to keep going knowing that his Christmas bonus is due soon.
Starring
Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo, Juliette Lewis
Where to Watch
via JustWatch →
