“The National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” is a Christmas movie made in 1989, it is a comedy starring Chevy Chase and Beverly D’Angelo. Distributors Warner Bros and FilmFlex produced the movie, which was edited by Jerry Greenberg and Michael A. Stevenson and directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik. The plot is Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase) and his wife Ellen Griswold (Beverly D’Angelo) are preparing for their family Christmas with their kids Audrey (Juliette Lewis) and Rusty Griswold (Johnny Galecki). In the beginning of the movie, while family members begin to arrive, Clark focuses all of his attention on having Christmas lights all over his house.  

I think this is a very well-put-together Christmas movie, it’s a mix of comedy and a lesson on appreciating time together with your family. “Christmas Vacation” is rated PG-13, intended for certain audiences because although it’s a comedy, there are inappropriate scenes with Clark and Mary (Nicolette Scorsese).  Although some moments may get inappropriate for certain audiences, it is a great movie to watch with your family. Clark is personally my favorite character, with a close second being Aunt Bethany and Cousin Eddie. Clark is the perfect character because he is the true meaning of the Christmas spirit throughout the movie. For example, in one scene a squirrel runs throughout the house, with Eddie’s dog chasing it. While they destroy everything, Clark loses his mind, but then he realizes what he did wrong, so Clark tries to keep the family in, in an attempt to save Christmas. In addition, when Clark goes to the grocery store with Eddie, he confronts Eddie about never getting his kids Christmas presents. Eddie explains to Clark that he’s in a very rough position financially, so Clark rebuttals and tells Eddie to give him a list for both of his kids, because he is willing to help him. 

Overall, this movie is one of my favorites because it shows the perfect contrast between sarcasm and seriousness at times. It also brings the idea of Santa Claus in the hope of getting kids more excited for the holiday season. It emphasizes the idea of spending time with family, and not taking that time for granted. I would rate this movie a 8/10, would definitely recommend it and I look forward to watching it again.