The plot of the movie is relatively simple. Rusty Griswold decides to take his wife Debbie (played by Christina Applegate) and their two sons, James and Kevin, on a road trip to Walley World in California, just like his father did with him when he was a child. However, as they set off on their journey, things quickly spiral out of control, and the family finds themselves in a series of mishaps and misadventures.
One of the film’s primary goals is to pay tribute to the original National Lampoon’s Vacation movie while also bringing a fresh perspective to the franchise. While the 2015 film clearly references its predecessor, it also introduces new characters and elements that help make the movie stand out on its own.
The movie’s biggest strength is its cast. Helms, Applegate, and the child actors playing their sons all give stellar performances. They bring a certain level of comedy and sincerity to the film, making it easy for viewers to connect emotionally with the characters. The supporting cast also deserves recognition, with standout performances by actors such as Chris Hemsworth and Leslie Mann.
Another strong point of the film is its comedic elements. The movie is chock-full of slapstick humor and clever joke setups. While not all of the gags land, the majority of them hit their mark, resulting in some genuinely laugh-out-loud moments.
Despite the film’s strengths, it’s not without its flaws. Some of the jokes go on for too long, and the movie struggles to maintain momentum during the second act. Additionally, the narrative’s overall predictability means that some viewers will likely see many of the plot twists coming from a mile away.
Despite these minor flaws, Vacation is a genuinely enjoyable comedy movie that should satisfy both fans of the original National Lampoon’s Vacation film and newcomers to the series. It doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel but instead provides a fresh take on a classic franchise while staying true to its roots.
The film’s message is clear: family is everything. Despite all of the challenges that the Griswold family faces on their journey, they ultimately stick together through thick and thin. This message is what makes Vacation truly stand out, as it manages to balance its comedy with a message that is both heartwarming and sincere.
In conclusion, Vacation is a must-watch comedy movie for anyone who enjoys the genre. While it may not be perfect, the movie is entertaining and fun from start to finish. Featuring a talented cast, strong comedic elements, and a poignant message about the importance of family, the 2015 film is a worthy addition to the National Lampoon’s Vacation franchise.