Post by StevePulaski on Jul 14, 2011 22:21:55 GMT -5
The infamous "Wally World" scene in Vacation.
Rating: ★★★½
If there is one movie that is one of the all-time feel good movies it's definitely National Lampoon's Vacation. It's a work of comedy gold as the lead character, the iconic Clark Griswold (Chase), tries simply to give his family a successful and fun vacation. It turns into a problematic joy ride that rarely lets up.
Everyone has a Clark Griswold. He's a charming guy, great smile, calm tone, and a wish to make everyone happy. Clark is married to his wonderful wife Ellen (D'Angelo), and has two kids Rusty (Michael Hall) and Audrey (Barron) who would later become America's family in the three sequels. Clark and his family want to go to Wally World to see Marty Moose and spend some quality family time. But so much goes wrong it sends them into a downward spiral into insanity.
What happens, I won't spoil. Many have seen it, but it's not fun reading about their antics. Watching them on a Television is so much funnier and the right way to do it. The fact that the characters are so desparate for one simple thing, but can't get to it is hilarious. The characters aren't laughing at what happens which is good. They shouldn't feel like they're putting on a show for us. They are concerned about their well being, not if the audience is laughing.
The family is fun and well developed. I appreciate every actor who played both Rusty and Audrey and found them to be fit and capable of pulling the job off. As for Clark and Ellen, by the second movie they proved to us they were irreplaceable. Chevy Chase can't be replaced, neither can Beverly D'Angelo. It's just not possible.
I've always had a place in my heart for the Wally World Scene. It is arguably John Candy's funniest and most memorable role in movie history next to Planes, Trains, and Automobiles. Not to mention, Clark's unexpected yet hilarious outbursts are always something to look forward to in the series.
Followed up by two decent sequels, and a hilarious and underrated closure that is Vegas Vacation, the Vacation franchise is forever etched into my heart as a work of comedy genius. It's not only a brilliantly crafted, but it is the poster child for how to make a successful comedy. Don't act like you're putting on a show for somebody, act natural and act how you would if it were real.
Starring: Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo, Anthony Michael Hall, Dana Barron, Randy Quaid, Eugene Levy, and John Candy. Directed by: Harold Ramis.