Yule crack up.|Nov. 30, 1989|United States|97 Min.|PG-13
Genre: Comedy
Description: Clark Griswold, a Chicago resident, is determined to create the perfect Christmas for his family. Along with his wife Ellen, daughter Audrey, and son Rusty, he ventures into the countryside to find a Christmas tree. After hours of searching in the snow, Clark selects the largest tree he can find but realizes they forgot to bring tools to cut it down. Instead, they uproot the tree and haul it home tied to their car roof.
As the holiday season kicks off, both Clark’s and Ellen’s parents arrive for Christmas. Their constant bickering quickly becomes a source of irritation for the family. Despite this, Clark remains optimistic, committed to hosting a “fun old-fashioned family Christmas.” He decorates the house with 25,000 twinkle lights, though they initially fail to work due to a wiring mishap. When the lights finally illuminate, they cause a citywide power outage and chaos for Clark’s neighbors, Todd and Margo.
The surprises continue as Ellen’s cousin Cathrine, her husband Eddie, and their children, Rocky and Ruby Sue, unexpectedly show up in their RV, accompanied by their Rottweiler, Snots. Eddie reveals they’re struggling financially and have been forced to sell their home. Clark generously offers to buy Christmas gifts for Eddie’s kids. Soon after, Clark’s eccentric Aunt Bethany and grumpy Uncle Lewis arrive, adding to the holiday chaos.
Amid the festivities, Clark grows anxious about his annual bonus from his boss, Frank Shirley, which he desperately needs to cover an advance payment for a planned swimming pool. Despite the setbacks and chaos, Clark remains determined to make this Christmas unforgettable.
Cast director: Jeremiah S. Chechik
Cast actor: Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, Juliette Lewis, Johnny Galecki, John Randolph, Diane Ladd, E.G. Marshall, Doris Roberts, Randy Quaid, Miriam Flynn
Original name: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation