40 Years Of Hilarious Misadventures: Celebrating The Enduring Legacy Of 'National Lampoon's Vacation'

The iconic comedy film, released in 1983, follows the misadventures of the Griswold family as they embark on a cross-country road trip.

From its hilarious mishaps to its memorable characters, the movie has become a beloved classic.

One of the stars of "National Lampoon's Vacation" is Chevy Chase, who plays the role of Clark Griswold, the bumbling yet well-meaning family patriarch. Chase was already a well-established comedian, having been a part of the original cast of "Saturday Night Live." In addition to his role in "National Lampoon's Vacation," Chase also appeared in other comedy films such as "Fletch" and "Man of the House." He later returned to television with a starring role in the sitcom "Community" and has since appeared in various films and TV shows.

Beverly D'Angelo, who portrays Ellen Griswold, Clark's wife, had already received critical acclaim before her role in "National Lampoon's Vacation." She had been nominated for a Golden Globe for her performance in a previous film and later received an Emmy nomination for her role in the TV movie "A Streetcar Named Desire." D'Angelo continued to act in both film and television, appearing in shows like "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" and "Entourage."

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Dana Barron played the role of Audrey Griswold, the Griswold's temperamental teenage daughter, in "National Lampoon's Vacation." Following her breakout role, Barron won a Daytime Emmy Award for her performance in a CBS after-school special. She also had a career in soap operas and appeared in shows like "Beverly Hills, 90210" and "The Magnificent Seven."

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Anthony Michael Hall, known for his role as Rusty Griswold, the Griswold's son, went on to become a member of the Brat Pack, a group of young actors who starred in popular teen films of the 1980s. Hall appeared in films like "Sixteen Candles," "The Breakfast Club," and "Weird Science." He later had roles in various films and TV shows, including the drama series "The Dead Zone" and the comedy film "The Goldbergs."

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Christie Brinkley, a Sports Illustrated model, made her acting debut in "National Lampoon's Vacation" as the girl in the red Ferrari. Brinkley continued to model and appeared on numerous magazine covers. She also reprised her role in the "Vacation" film series and had guest appearances in TV shows like "Ugly Betty" and "Parks and Recreation."

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Eugene Levy, who played the car salesman in "National Lampoon's Vacation," was already a well-known comedian and actor in Canada before his role in the film. He had appeared in various comedy films and had won two Emmy Awards. Levy later gained widespread recognition for his role in the hit TV show "Schitt's Creek," which he co-created and starred in alongside his son, Dan Levy.

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John Candy, who portrayed security guard Russ Lasky in "National Lampoon's Vacation," was also a member of the SCTV Network, a sketch comedy series. Candy went on to have a successful career in film, starring in movies like "Ghostbusters," "Splash," and "Planes, Trains and Automobiles." He was known for his comedic talent and lovable on-screen presence. Candy tragically passed away in 1994 due to a heart attack.

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Randy Quaid played the role of Cousin Eddie in "National Lampoon's Vacation" and went on to have a successful acting career. He received critical acclaim for his role in the miniseries "LBJ: The Early Years" and appeared in films like "Independence Day" and "Brokeback Mountain." Quaid also had a recurring role in the "Vacation" film series.

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Jane Krakowski, who portrayed Cousin Vicki in "National Lampoon's Vacation," had her first major role in the film. She continued to act in both film and television, starring in shows like "Ally McBeal," "30 Rock," and "The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt." Krakowski also appeared in several successful movies and received a Tony Award nomination for her work on Broadway.

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Imogene Coca, an accomplished actress, played the role of Aunt Edna in "National Lampoon's Vacation." Coca had won multiple Emmy Awards and had been nominated for a Tony Award for her stage performances. After her role in the film, she continued to make guest appearances on TV shows and received another Emmy nomination for her work on "Moonlighting."

Brian Doyle-Murray, who portrayed the Kamp Komfort Clerk in "National Lampoon's Vacation," had a successful career in both film and television. He appeared in movies like "Sixteen Candles" and "Scrooged" and had long-lasting roles in TV shows like "Spongebob Squarepants" and "The Middle."

Miriam Flynn, who played Cousin Catherine in "National Lampoon's Vacation," went on to have a successful career in both film and television. She voiced a character in the film "Babe" andappeared in TV shows like "The X-Files" and "Seinfeld." Flynn also reprised her role as Cousin Catherine in the "Vacation" film series.

"National Lampoon's Vacation" was directed by Harold Ramis, who was known for his work in comedy films. Ramis had previously directed films like "Caddyshack" and "Stripes" and later went on to direct other successful comedies like "Groundhog Day" and "Analyze This." He was known for his ability to blend humor with heart, and "National Lampoon's Vacation" is no exception.

The film was a box office success, grossing over $61 million worldwide. It received positive reviews from critics, who praised its comedic timing and relatable family dynamics. The movie's success led to the creation of a franchise, with several sequels and spin-offs being made over the years.

"National Lampoon's Vacation" has become a cultural phenomenon, with its quotes and scenes being referenced and parodied in various forms of media. The film's iconic moments, such as the Griswold family's encounter with the moose and their disastrous visit to Walley World, have become ingrained in pop culture.

The movie's enduring popularity can be attributed to its timeless humor and relatable themes. The Griswold family's road trip resonates with audiences who have experienced their fair share of vacation mishaps and family dynamics. The film's ability to find humor in the chaos of everyday life is what makes it so endearing.

As "National Lampoon's Vacation" celebrates its 40th anniversary, it continues to entertain audiences of all ages. Its comedic brilliance and memorable characters have solidified its place as a classic comedy film. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, this beloved movie is sure to bring laughter and joy for years to come.