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National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation poster

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation

Comedy
8+PG-13
1989·1h 37m·Jeremiah S. Chechik·Hughes Entertainment· Script read & verified

Clark Griswold is determined to host the perfect old-fashioned family Christmas, complete with a massive tree and elaborate light display. When both sets of grandparents...

Fine for kids to watch alone

Heads Up for Parents

Some adult humor and innuendo in the lingerie shopping scene may go over kids' heads


What's In It

Violence
Very Mild
Language
Very Mild
Scary
Very Mild
Romance
Very Mild
Substances
Very Mild
Stimulation
Very Mild

Cultural & Values Guide

Faith & Religion
Christian themes

Christmas faith and the true meaning of Christmas are woven throughout the film as Clark's motivation for creating the perfect family holiday. The film treats Christmas as a sacred family tradition worth preserving.

Values & Themes
Traditional family values

Clark's entire mission is to create the perfect Christmas for his extended family, with sacrifice, generosity, and family togetherness as the central emotional message. The film celebrates traditional holiday family gatherings and multi-generational bonds.


Family Takeaways

What it gets right

  • Family togetherness during holidays despite imperfections
  • Persistence and dedication to creating special memories
  • Finding joy in traditions and shared experiences

Cast:Chevy ChaseBeverly D'AngeloJuliette LewisJohnny GaleckiJohn Randolph