Review of National Lampoon's Vacation (1983) by Compi24 — 30 Apr 2020

An inarguable classic that I've probably already seen in its entirety four or five times over (only out of order, however) "National Lampoon's Vacation" features what could be the quintessential Chevy Chase performance -- charismatic, charming, but with equal doses of both desperate and crazy.

There's a lot to like here, namely the film's second half, which really amps up the crazy, ultimately culminating in a truly enjoyable finish. The road getting there, though, can be much like the Griswold's own road trip -- bumpy, especially from a timelessness standpoint.

Look, not every movie's going to age well. And "Vacation" certainly ages better than a lot of other films from its era of comedy. Still doesn't change the fact that there were simply some gags and bits in this that I probably would've found funnier in the year 1983.

Not that I was "offended" or anything. Some jokes felt a little "been there done that" to me. Still, it's an absolute must-watch for fans of the road trip genre and comedies altogether.