Review Detail

The 2015 reboot of "Vacation" attempts to revive the classic National Lampoon series with a fresh spin while paying homage to its iconic predecessor. Directed by John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein, the film stars Ed Helms as a grown-up Rusty Griswold, who, inspired by his childhood memories, embarks on a cross-country road trip to Walley World with his own family.

Ed Helms delivers a solid performance as the well-meaning but perpetually stressed Rusty, embodying the spirit of his predecessor, Chevy Chase, albeit with a modern twist. Christina Applegate plays his wife, Debbie, bringing both humor and heart to her role. The supporting cast, including a brief but memorable appearance by Chase and Beverly D'Angelo, provides nostalgic callbacks that fans of the original will appreciate.

The film’s humor is a mixed bag, with some gags landing successfully while others fall flat. The script aims for a balance between raunchy comedy and heartfelt moments but occasionally struggles to hit the mark. While the film’s attempt to blend classic slapstick with contemporary sensibilities results in some amusing sequences—such as a cringe-worthy yet hilarious family dinner and a series of unfortunate travel mishaps—it can also feel overly reliant on shock value.

Visually, the film captures the essence of a road trip adventure with vibrant scenery and engaging set pieces. However, the overarching plot and character development sometimes take a backseat to the comedy, leaving the narrative feeling disjointed at times.

In summary, "Vacation" (2015) succeeds in delivering moments of genuine laughter and nostalgia but falls short of the consistent charm and cohesion of its predecessors. It’s a fun, if imperfect, addition to the Griswold saga, offering fans a chance to revisit a beloved franchise while introducing it to a new generation.