Griswolds' Chaotic Euro Trip: A 1985 Comedy Review

In this episode of Mindset Movie Reviews, I take a closer look at National Lampoon's European Vacation (1985). Directed by Amy Heckerling, starring Chevy Chase, Beverly d'Angelo, Dana Hill, Jason Lively, and John Astin. ⭐ Rating: 2.5/5 🏆 IMDb: 6.2/10 🎬 Genre: Comedy and Adventure ⏱ Runtime: 95 minutes 📅 Release Year: 1986 🎥 Watch the full video review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rcHli7oRUoo Follow the podcast for more honest movie reviews — no fluff, no hype.

Transcript

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Howdy, welcome to Mindset Movie Reviews. If you're into movies, don't forget to like and subscribe. Let's review National Lampoon's European Vacation. National Lampoon's European Vacation is a comedic adventure that takes the Griswold family across the Atlantic for a whirlwind tour of Europe. Directed by Amy Heckling and written by John Hughes and Robert Klain, the film follows Clark Griswold, played by Chevy Chase, his wife Ellen, portrayed by Beverly D'Angelo, and their teenage children, Audrey, played by Dana Hill, and Rusty, portrayed by Jason Lively, as they embark on an all-expenses paid trip one on a game show. Released in 1985, this sequel to the beloved National Lampoons Vacation attempts to capture the same charm and humour of its predecessor but falls short in several areas. The film's premise is promising, with the Griswolds navigating the cultural quirks and challenges of Europe. From the bustling streets of London to the romantic allure of Paris, the picturesque landscapes of Germany, and the historic charm of Rome, the movie offers a visual treat. However, the comedic execution is inconsistent. While there are moments of genuine hilarity, such as Clark's attempts to speak French in a Prisian restaurant, the humour often feels forced and occasionally uncomfortable. The film's opening scene, where a game show host inappropriately kisses Audrey, sets a tone that some viewers might find distasteful. Chevy Chase and Beverly D'Angelo reprise their roles with enthusiasm, bringing a sense of familiarity and warmth to the film. Their chemistry is undeniable and they manage to evoke a sense of nostalgia for fans of the original movie. However, the new actors playing Rusty and Audrey do not quite capture the same magic as their predecessors. Dana Hill's portrayal of Audrey, in particular, has been criticized for being overly whiny and annoying, detracting from the overall enjoyment of the film. The film's direction by Amy Heckling lacks the energy and creativity that characterized her previous work, such as Fast Times at Ridgemont High. The plot feels disjointed at times, with certain scenes dragging on without adding much to the story. The absence of Randy Quaid's iconic cousin Eddie character is also felt, as his presence in the other films provided a comedic balance to Chevy Chase's antics. Despite its shortcomings, National Lampoon's European vacation does have its redeeming qualities. The film's scenic backdrop offers a delightful escape, and there are enough comedic moments to keep audiences entertained. Eric Idle's cameo as a hapless British cyclist adds a touch of classic British humour to the mix. In summary, while National Lampoon's European vacation may not live up to the high standards set by its predecessor, it still provides a light-hearted and amusing journey with the Griswold family. The film captures the essence of a family vacation gone awry, with all the chaos and laughter that entails. For fans of the series, it is a nostalgic trip down memory lane, albeit one that might not be as memorable as the original.