Cast Of National Lampoon's Vacation: A Comprehensive Look At The Iconic Film

The 1983 film "National Lampoon's Vacation" not only became a staple of American comedy but also introduced audiences to a memorable cast of characters that have remained beloved for decades. With its blend of humor, family dynamics, and relatable mishaps, the film set the stage for a series of sequels and spin-offs, making it a significant part of pop culture history. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the cast of "National Lampoon's Vacation," exploring their backgrounds, contributions to the film, and the impact their roles had on the franchise.

As we dive into the cast, we will highlight not just the main characters but also the supporting roles that added depth and humor to the story. This exploration will provide insights into the actors' careers, showcasing how this film shaped their paths in Hollywood.

Whether you're a long-time fan of the franchise or new to the series, understanding the cast of "National Lampoon's Vacation" is key to appreciating its lasting legacy. Let’s embark on this journey together!

Table of Contents

• 1. Introduction
• 2. Biography of the Main Cast
• 3. Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold
• 4. Beverly D'Angelo as Ellen Griswold
• 5. The Griswold Children
• 6. Supporting Cast and Cameos
• 7. Impact of the Film
• 8. Conclusion

1. Introduction

The film "National Lampoon's Vacation" revolves around the Griswold family as they embark on a cross-country road trip to the fictional Walley World amusement park. The film, directed by Harold Ramis, is based on a short story titled "Vacation '58" by John Hughes, who also wrote the screenplay. The ensemble cast brought to life the hilarious and often chaotic journey of the Griswolds, making it a classic that resonates with audiences to this day.

2. Biography of the Main Cast

3. Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold

Chevy Chase stars as the bumbling patriarch, Clark Griswold, whose relentless optimism and determination to create the perfect family vacation often lead to disastrous results. Chase, known for his deadpan humor and physical comedy, brought a unique charm to the role. His performance as Clark has become iconic, defining the character as a quintessential American dad.

Chase's background in comedy, particularly from his time on "Saturday Night Live," equipped him with the skills to deliver memorable lines and reactions that resonate with audiences. His portrayal of Clark Griswold has influenced numerous characters in subsequent comedies and has solidified Chase's status as a comedy legend.

4. Beverly D'Angelo as Ellen Griswold

Beverly D'Angelo plays Ellen Griswold, the supportive yet often exasperated wife of Clark. D'Angelo brought warmth and humor to the role, balancing Clark's wild antics with her practicality and love for her family. Her chemistry with Chase contributed significantly to the film's success, making the Griswold couple relatable to viewers.

D'Angelo's extensive career includes a variety of roles in film and television, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Her performance in "National Lampoon's Vacation" stands out as one of her most memorable roles, earning her recognition as a talented comedic actress.

5. The Griswold Children

5.1. Anthony Michael Hall as Rusty Griswold

Anthony Michael Hall portrays Rusty Griswold, the teenage son who often finds himself caught between his father's grand vacation plans and the realities of family life. Hall's performance captures the awkwardness and frustrations of adolescence, making Rusty a relatable character for many young viewers.

5.2. Dana Barron as Audrey Griswold

Dana Barron plays Audrey Griswold, the teenage daughter who grapples with her own challenges during the family road trip. Barron's portrayal of Audrey showcases the typical teenage frustrations, especially in dealing with her quirky family dynamics.

6. Supporting Cast and Cameos

The film features a variety of supporting characters that enhance the narrative and add to the comedic elements. Notable appearances include:

• Randy Quaid as Cousin Eddie, whose outrageous behavior provides some of the film's biggest laughs.
• John Candy as the friendly but hapless security guard at Walley World.
• Christina Applegate in a cameo as the older Audrey in the sequel.

These characters, while not central to the plot, contribute significantly to the overall humor and charm of the film.

7. Impact of the Film

"National Lampoon's Vacation" has left a lasting impact on American comedy and popular culture. The film's unique blend of humor and relatable family dynamics resonated with audiences, leading to the creation of several sequels and spin-offs, including "European Vacation," "Christmas Vacation," and "Vegas Vacation." Each installment continued to explore the Griswold family's misadventures, solidifying their place in cinematic history.

The film has also influenced countless other road trip comedies, establishing a template for the genre. Its memorable quotes, scenes, and characters have become ingrained in pop culture, often referenced in various media.

8. Conclusion

In conclusion, the cast of "National Lampoon's Vacation" played a pivotal role in the film's success and enduring legacy. From Chevy Chase's iconic portrayal of Clark Griswold to Beverly D'Angelo's charming performance as Ellen, each actor brought their characters to life with humor and authenticity. The film remains a beloved classic, and its impact continues to be felt in modern comedy.

We encourage you to share your thoughts on the film and its cast in the comments below. If you enjoyed this article, consider sharing it with fellow fans or exploring more articles about classic films on our website!

Thank you for joining us on this nostalgic journey through the cast of "National Lampoon's Vacation." We hope to see you again soon!

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