Christmas Vacation is a 1989 Christmas comedy film directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik. It is the third installment in National Lampoon's Vacation film series, and was written by John Hughes, based on his short story in National Lampoon Magazine, Christmas ‘59. The title song was written for the movie by the husband-wife songwriting team of Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil and was performed by Mavis Staples of The Staple Singers fame.
Since its release in 1989, Christmas Vacation has been ranked on many lists of "Top 10 Favorite Christmas Films" and is considered a modern holiday classic.As of 2011, it is shown annually on ABC Family's 25 Days of Christmas block.
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.
Plot
On a quest for "The Griswold Family Christmas Tree," Clark has planned a "good, old-fashioned family Christmas." His family is wary of his plans but Clark is oblivious. He has nostalgic moments of Christmas past when he is accidentally locked in the attic. Clark outdoes himself with 25,000 lights on the roof, but he can't get the power on. Eventually the lights turn on and they are spectacular, blinding the neighbors and causing a power drain at the local nuclear power plant. In addition to the usual family get together, the Griswolds have some unexpected visitors. Eddie and Catherine show up. In spite of all the good intentions and careful planning, Christmas plans go awry.
While sledding, Clark uses a newly invented chemical on his toboggan and winds up traveling at blinding speed, burning most of the bottom off of the toboggan. Clark eventually dreams that the swimming pool is in his backyard and soon learns Eddie and his family have lost their home and are living in the RV. Clark's frustration at not receiving his expected Christmas bonus eventually erupts yelling swear words and cousin Eddie kidnaps his boss.
The family gathers again on the front lawn to enjoy the "Christmas Star," which turns out to be an explosion. Clark watches this strange but touching sight and finally realizes that his dream of the perfect, family Christmas has finally come true. The Santa and reindeer lawn ornaments fly across the sky, having been propelled by the explosion.
Cast
Cast overview, first billed only:
Chevy Chase ... Clark Griswold
Beverly D'Angelo ... Ellen Griswold
Juliette Lewis ... Audrey Griswold
Johnny Galecki ... Russell 'Rusty' Griswold
John Randolph ... Clark Wilhelm Griswold, Sr.
Diane Ladd ... Nora Griswold
E.G. Marshall ... Art Smith
Doris Roberts ... Frances Smith
Randy Quaid ... Cousin Eddie Johnson
Miriam Flynn ... Cousin Catherine Johnson
Cody Burger ... Cousin Rocky Johnson
Ellen Hamilton Latzen ... Cousin Ruby Sue Johnson
William Hickey ... Uncle Lewis
Mae Questel ... Aunt Bethany
Sam McMurray ... Bill
Directed by Jeremiah Chechik
Produced by John Hughes
Matty Simmons
Written by John Hughes
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