PG-13

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation

Yule crack up!

1989 • 97 min • Comedy

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Synopsis

It's Christmastime, and the Griswolds are preparing for a family seasonal celebration. But things never run smoothly for Clark, his wife Ellen, and their two kids. Clark's continual bad luck is worsened by his obnoxious family guests, but he manages to keep going, knowing that his Christmas bonus is due soon.

Our family guide

Best from age 11

Movie Knight Score

2770 reviews

72 Audience · 2770 · 100%

The Griswold family Christmas is a chaotic holiday experience, as Clark tries to create the perfect celebration. From tangled lights to unexpected guests and a disappearing bonus, every festive plan goes hilariously wrong. It’s a wild ride highlighting the joys and frustrations of family gatherings.

Violence & peril: 3/10
Language: 4/10
Drinking, drugs & smoking: 4/10
Romance & sensuality: 2/10
Scary moments: 1/10

Heads up

Some slapstick accidents and property damage
Occasional crude language and references
Adults drinking alcohol and smoking

What it models well

Family togetherness (eventually)
Perseverance
Holiday spirit

Talk about it after

Managing expectations during holidays
The true meaning of giving
Dealing with difficult relatives

Written by the Movie Knight editorial team for National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. Our own words, our own scoring — always double-check against your family's standards.