National Lampoon's European Vacation (1985)

Overview

National Lampoon's European Vacation, released in 1985, is the second installment in the National Lampoon's Vacation series and follows the chaotic trip the Griswold family takes to Europe this time. The director's chair, previously occupied by Amy Heckerling, has now been handed over to a different name who took over directing duties from Amy Heckerling on the first film; in this film, directing responsibilities have passed from Amy Heckerling to another name behind the wheel. Chevy Chase and Beverly D'Angelo continue to play the beloved Griswold couple, Clark and Ellen, and this time the comedy is built around an American small-town family's encounter with European cities.

The film, carrying the National Lampoon brand's absurd, silly, and sometimes dark-humored elements, has remained in memory as one of the box-office comedies of the 80s. The screenplay bears the signatures of Ford Fry, John Hughes, and Robert Klane; John Hughes's name in particular recalls the strong comedic storytelling style of the era's youth and family comedies. British actress Maureen Lipman also appears in the production, contributing to the film's European cast of characters; with her distinctive comic manner, she adds a different flavor to the strange events that befall the family.

Achieving moderate commercial success upon release, the film received more mixed reviews compared to the series' first film, yet it built a cult fan base and is regarded as an important link within the series. As the second act of the Griswold family's vacation adventures, it offers a different flavor by transplanting the American family comedy formula to European geography.

Plot

The Griswold family unexpectedly wins the grand prize on a television game show, and as their prize they receive a comprehensive vacation package to Europe. In keeping with Clark Griswold's usual excitable, unplanned, and misfortune-attracting manner, the family embarks on a trip route covering countries such as England, France, Germany, and Italy. However, as expected, nothing goes smoothly; cultural misunderstandings, language barriers, mix-ups over traffic rules, and absurd incidents that befall them by chance turn the family's vacation into chaos.

Experiencing a different misfortune or strange encounter in every city, the Griswolds humorously represent the classic American tourist stereotype. Through their odd relationships with locals, mishaps at the hotels where they stay, and the constantly derailing travel plan, the film reconstructs the road movie format across European cities. This disorderly adventure creates a framework that tests the family's bond with one another while offering the audience a comical perspective on cross-continental cultural differences.

Why Watch It?

This film offers an enjoyable viewing experience, especially for those with a nostalgic interest in the 80s box-office comedy style. Chevy Chase's mastery of physical comedy forms the backbone of the film, and the slapstick moments packed into every scene aim to make the audience laugh. It becomes a natural choice for those who want to see a continuation of the Griswold family's lovable chaotic energy from the first film.

Additionally, the period representation of different European cities (such as London, Paris, and Rome) offers the audience visual variety. The film's distinctive ironic perspective on the perception of American tourists contains a structure that pokes fun at cultural clichés, turning it from a mere family comedy into a light social satire. Maureen Lipman's performance is also one of the memorable moments among the film's supporting characters, making a small but effective contribution to blending British humor with the American slapstick style.

Who Is It Suitable For?

It is a suitable choice for viewers who love classic American family comedies, particularly those who warmly embrace the laid-back, logic-defying sense of humor of the 1980s. Those who enjoyed the first film in the Vacation series can regard this second installment as a natural continuation point. In addition, viewers who enjoy physical comedy, exaggerated characters, and unpredictable plotlines will enjoy the film.

On the other hand, this film may not meet the expectations of viewers who prefer a realistic or subtle style of humor and seek sophisticated screenplay structures. It should also be noted that there are some adult jokes to be mindful of for family viewing, so it is not entirely suitable for all age groups; it appeals to an audience ranging from teenagers to adults.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Chevy Chase's energetic and physical comedy performance is one of the film's strongest elements.

2. The presentation of different European cities with period atmosphere provides visual variety.

3. The contribution of supporting characters like Maureen Lipman increases the comedic variety.

Cons:

1. The screenplay may be found weaker and more repetitive in some sections compared to the first film.

2. Some jokes based on cultural clichés may feel dated to today's audience.

Genre and Tone

The film is positioned as a blend of the classic family comedy and road movie genres. Its tone is generally light, absurd, and slapstick-heavy; it steers clear of serious dramatic moments, aiming to keep the audience laughing continuously. The boundary-pushing, sometimes crude sense of humor characteristic of the National Lampoon brand is also felt here. However, the warm undertone addressing the importance of family bonds keeps the film from being entirely chaotic comedy, anchoring it to a certain emotional core.

Runtime and Viewing Experience

The film has a short and fluid runtime of approximately 90 minutes, making it a production that can be watched in one sitting without tiring. Since the scene transitions are quick and the plot progresses in a city-by-city structure, it carries the viewer from one misfortune to the next without boredom. It offers an undemanding viewing experience that can comfortably be chosen for weekend enjoyment or as a nostalgic evening pick.

Similar Productions

• National Lampoon's Vacation (1983)

• National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989)

• Vegas Vacation (1997)

• Home Alone series (shares the common ground of bearing John Hughes's signature family comedy style)

• Eurotrip (2004)

• Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)

Final Assessment

National Lampoon's European Vacation offers an enjoyable, light, and smooth comedy experience for series fans and viewers seeking 80s nostalgia. Chevy Chase's energy and the Griswold family's misfortune-filled European journey refresh the classic American family comedy formula by transplanting it to different geographies. Although it remains in the shadow of the first film in terms of screenplay depth and originality, it continues to find its audience as an entertaining, smile-inducing production in its own right.