What’s the order of the vacation movies? This question often arises among fans who are eager to watch the iconic “Vacation” film series in the correct sequence. The “Vacation” movies, also known as the “National Lampoon’s Vacation” series, have become a staple of American comedy, chronicling the misadventures of the Griswold family as they embark on road trips across the United States. In this article, we will explore the order in which these films should be watched to fully appreciate the humor and evolution of the characters over time.
The original film, “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” was released in 1983 and introduced audiences to the Griswold family, led by Clark (Chevy Chase) and Ellen (Catherine O’Hara). The movie follows their attempt to take a cross-country trip to Walley World, a fictional amusement park. This film sets the stage for the rest of the series and is a great starting point for those new to the franchise.
The second film, “Christmas Vacation” (1989), is a prequel that focuses on the Griswolds’ Christmas celebrations. It provides a glimpse into the family’s life before the events of the first film and is a delightful addition to the series. Watching this movie after the original allows viewers to see the characters’ development and understand their motivations better.
The third film, “European Vacation” (1985), takes the Griswolds to Europe, where they encounter a series of mishaps and misadventures. This film is a great middle ground between the first two, offering a mix of slapstick comedy and heartwarming moments. It’s a fun way to continue the vacation theme while exploring a new setting.
The fourth film, “Vegas Vacation” (1997), is a sequel that reunites the Griswolds for another road trip, this time to Las Vegas. This film is a parody of the Las Vegas lifestyle and showcases the characters’ continued growth and evolution. It’s a good idea to watch this movie after “European Vacation” to see how the family has changed over the years.
The fifth and final film, “Vacation Road Trip” (2005), is a reunion of sorts, as it brings back the original cast for a new adventure. This film takes the Griswolds to the Grand Canyon and features a mix of new and old characters. It’s a fitting conclusion to the series, as it ties up loose ends and provides a satisfying ending for fans.
In summary, the recommended order to watch the “Vacation” movies is as follows: “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” “Christmas Vacation,” “European Vacation,” “Vegas Vacation,” and “Vacation Road Trip.” By following this sequence, viewers can fully appreciate the humor and evolution of the Griswold family as they navigate the complexities of family life and the joys of road trips.
