How Many ‘National Lampoon’s Vacation’ Movies Are There in the Franchise-
How many National Lampoon Vacation movies are there? This question often arises among fans of the iconic comedy series, which has become a staple of the American summer movie season. The Vacation franchise, featuring the Griswold family, has entertained audiences since its debut in 1983 with “National Lampoon’s Vacation.” Over the years, the series has expanded to include several sequels, each bringing its own unique blend of humor and family dynamics.
The original movie, directed by Harold Ramis, introduced the world to Clark Griswold, a middle-aged man with a penchant for adventure and a love for his family. The film follows the Griswolds as they embark on a cross-country road trip to Walley World, a theme park that symbolizes the American Dream. The film’s success led to a series of sequels, each exploring different aspects of the Griswolds’ lives and their misadventures.
As of now, there are five National Lampoon Vacation movies in the franchise. The second film, “National Lampoon’s European Vacation,” was released in 1985 and takes the Griswolds to Europe, where they encounter a variety of cultural and linguistic challenges. The third installment, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” arrived in 1989 and focuses on the family’s holiday festivities, which, as expected, turn into a series of comedic disasters.
The fourth movie, “Vegas Vacation,” was released in 1997 and finds the Griswolds planning a lavish trip to Las Vegas. The film introduces new characters and delves into the family’s relationship with their extended relatives. The final film in the series, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation: Las Vegas,” was released in 2007 and serves as a continuation of the events from “Vegas Vacation.”
Despite the numerous sequels, the original “National Lampoon’s Vacation” remains a fan favorite. The franchise’s humor, which often relies on slapstick and the absurd, has resonated with audiences for decades. While the number of National Lampoon Vacation movies may not be as extensive as some other film series, the quality and charm of the films have ensured their enduring popularity.
In conclusion, there are five National Lampoon Vacation movies, each contributing to the legacy of this beloved comedy series. The Griswolds’ adventures continue to entertain and inspire laughter, making the Vacation franchise a memorable part of American cinema history.