National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989) is a classic holiday comedy that has become a staple of Christmas movie marathons. Directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik and written by John Hughes, the film follows the chaotic and often absurd holiday celebrations of Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase), a well-meaning but disastrously unlucky father who just wants to have the perfect Christmas with his family.
The movie opens as Clark, a proud family man, eagerly prepares for the holiday season, determined to create a memorable Christmas for his wife, Ellen (Beverly D’Angelo), and their two children. From decking the halls with millions of Christmas lights to planning a grand family dinner, Clark’s enthusiasm knows no bounds. However, as with every National Lampoon film, things quickly spiral out of control.
Clark’s plans are derailed by a series of comical mishaps, including the disastrous arrival of his eccentric relatives, led by his grumpy and uninvited cousin, Lewis (William Hickey), and the over-the-top antics of his elderly mother-in-law. The situation worsens when Clark’s grand idea to give his family a perfect Christmas gift—an in-ground swimming pool—falls apart when his Christmas bonus is delayed. 
To make matters worse, he finds himself being pushed to the edge by a series of increasingly ridiculous events: from his over-the-top attempt to light up the house with an enormous amount of Christmas lights to an incident involving a runaway sleigh and a Christmas tree that almost destroys his home.
Through it all, Clark remains determined to create a “perfect” holiday, all while trying to maintain his sanity in the face of family chaos, unexpected accidents, and constant setbacks. As the Griswold family’s Christmas spirals into chaos, the film builds to an unforgettable and heartwarming finale, where Clark’s love for his family and his desire to make Christmas special shine through, despite the madness that surrounds him.
With its unique blend of slapstick humor, family dynamics, and memorable one-liners, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation delivers a hilarious portrayal of the challenges of the holiday season. Chevy Chase’s comedic performance as Clark Griswold is iconic, and the film’s relatable portrayal of family gatherings, especially during the holidays, has made it a beloved classic for generations.
Filled with memorable characters, including the sarcastic cousin Eddie (Randy Quaid), the film perfectly balances chaos and heartfelt moments, making it a holiday must-watch. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation reminds us that while the holidays can be a whirlwind of stress and disaster, they also bring moments of laughter, joy, and the irreplaceable value of family. It’s a true Christmas comedy classic!
