After 18 years, the Griswolds are back on the silver screen this summer with Vacation, another installment in the hit comedy series. Here’s how I rank the series (Christmas Vacation 2 excluded):
Vacation (1983)
Over 30 years later, it’s held up remarkably well. It’s funny, very quotable, and never has a dull moment. Chevy Chase is at his finest as Clark Griswold, the quintessential cinematic family man. He plays the role with genuine effort and heart in every single entry. It remains the best in the series.
Christmas Vacation (1989)
A sequel that manages to hit all the right notes and cues. It captures both the joy and the horror that Christmas can bring. It’s required viewing during the holiday season.
Vacation (2015)
A lot of hate for this one so far, but I really enjoyed it. It’s a sequel and quasi-reboot of sorts that shows a lot of respect and love for the original. You really get that nostalgic feeling from the beginning when “Holiday Road” plays over the opening credits. It takes advantage of its R rating with a lot of vulgar and raunchy humor, and most of it works. Ed Helms makes for a fine grown up Rusty Griswold. Also, the abundance of cameos is great.
European Vacation (1985)
I admit this one hasn’t held up the best, but I still enjoy it enough. It has funny moments here and there, especially the bits with Eric Idle.
Vegas Vacation (1997)
Really dumb, but not terrible nor do I dislike it. It mainly lacks the comedic energy and wit of the previous entries in the series.
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