National Lampoon's European Vacation

About This Movie

National Lampoon's European Vacation is a wild ride through Europe with the hapless Griswolds. Directed by Amy Heckerling, it captures a specific brand of cringe humor, where every attempt at fun turns to chaos. The pacing is brisk; one moment they’re in London, the next they’re causing havoc in Paris. The performances, especially Chevy Chase as the eternally optimistic Clark, are over-the-top yet grounded in a relatable family dynamic. There’s a satirical edge to how they navigate cultural faux pas that feels quite relevant. Plus, those practical effects during the car chase scenes are a nice touch, keeping the laughs physical. It’s a different flavor compared to the original, but it has its own charm and misadventures.

Released in 1985, sequel to the original Vacation.Filmed on location in several European cities.Features a mix of practical effects and physical comedy.Part of the National Lampoon franchise, known for its satire.