European Vacation (1985) Watch Online Free

The Griswalds win a vacation to Europe on a game show, and so pack their bags for the continent. They do their best to catch the flavor of Europe, but they just don’t know how to be be good tourists. Besides, they have trouble taking holidays in countries where they CAN speak the language.

National Lampoon’s European Vacation (1985), directed by Amy Heckerling, is the second installment in the National Lampoon’s Vacation series. The film follows the Griswold family—Clark (Chevy Chase), Ellen (Beverly D’Angelo), and their children, Rusty (Jason Lively) and Audrey (Dana Hill)—as they win a trip to Europe on a game show. Their journey takes them to London, Paris, West Germany, and Rome, where they encounter a series of comedic misadventures.

The film opens with the Griswolds participating in a game show, Pig in a Poke, where they inadvertently win the European vacation. Excited yet unprepared, they embark on their journey, leading to a series of humorous incidents. In London, Clark’s enthusiasm leads to chaos, including a memorable scene where he drives on the wrong side of the road, causing accidents and confusion. In Paris, the family struggles with language barriers and cultural misunderstandings, culminating in the theft of their video camera. Their adventures continue in West Germany and Rome, where they inadvertently offend locals and find themselves in increasingly absurd situations.

The film’s humor is characterized by slapstick comedy, cultural stereotypes, and the Griswolds’ well-meaning but often misguided attempts to embrace European culture. The narrative focuses on the family’s dynamics, highlighting Clark’s determination to create memorable experiences for his family, despite the chaos that ensues. The film’s pacing is brisk, with each segment introducing new comedic scenarios that play on the family’s naivety and the cultural differences they encounter.

Themes

• Cultural Misunderstanding and Stereotypes: The film humorously explores the Griswolds’ naive perceptions of Europe, leading to comedic misunderstandings and cultural faux pas. This theme is evident in scenes where the family inadvertently offends locals or misinterprets cultural norms, highlighting the humor in cultural differences.
• Family Dynamics and Bonding: Despite the chaos, the Griswold family’s adventures underscore themes of familial love and resilience. Clark’s determination to provide a memorable experience for his family, and their collective ability to navigate mishaps, reinforce the importance of family bonds.

Impact of the Movie

Upon its release, National Lampoon’s European Vacation received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its humor and others criticizing its reliance on slapstick comedy. Over time, the film has gained a cult following, appreciated for its nostalgic value and as a representation of 1980s comedy. Its portrayal of American tourists abroad and the ensuing cultural clashes resonated with audiences, contributing to its enduring popularity.

7 Reasons to Watch National Lampoon’s European Vacation (1985)

1. Chevy Chase’s Comedic Performance

   Chevy Chase delivers a standout performance as Clark Griswold, capturing the character’s well-meaning yet often misguided enthusiasm. His comedic timing and physical humor are central to the film’s appeal, providing numerous laugh-out-loud moments.

   • Chase’s portrayal of Clark’s determination to create a perfect family vacation adds depth to the character, making his misadventures both humorous and endearing.
   • His interactions with the supporting cast enhance the film’s dynamic, contributing to its overall charm.
2. Cultural Satire and Humor

   The film offers a satirical take on American tourists abroad, highlighting the humorous side of cultural misunderstandings and stereotypes. This theme is explored through the Griswolds’ interactions with locals and their attempts to navigate unfamiliar customs.

   • The satire provides a lighthearted critique of cultural differences, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.
   • The film’s humor transcends cultural boundaries, appealing to a wide audience through its universal themes of travel mishaps and family dynamics.
3. Iconic European Landmarks

   National Lampoon’s European Vacation showcases several iconic European landmarks, including Big Ben, the Eiffel Tower, and the Colosseum. The film’s depiction of these sites adds a sense of adventure and authenticity to the Griswolds’ journey.

   • The cinematography captures the beauty and grandeur of these landmarks, enhancing the film’s visual appeal.
   • The inclusion of these sites provides a backdrop for the family’s comedic escapades, adding to the film’s charm.
4. Supporting Cast Cameos

   The film features cameos from notable actors, including Eric Idle and John Astin, adding an element of surprise and delight for viewers. These appearances contribute to the film’s comedic tone and provide additional layers of humor.

   • The cameos are well-timed, enhancing the film’s comedic pacing and adding to its overall enjoyment.
   • These appearances serve as a nod to fans of the actors’ previous work, adding an extra layer of enjoyment for those familiar with their careers.
5. Nostalgic 1980s Comedy

   For fans of 1980s comedy, National Lampoon’s European Vacation offers a nostalgic trip back to the era’s humor and style. The film’s fashion, music, and cultural references provide a snapshot of the 1980s, appealing to those who appreciate the decade’s comedic sensibilities.

   • The film’s aesthetic captures the essence of 1980s cinema, making it a delightful watch for fans of the era.
   • The nostalgic elements add a layer of charm, making the film a fun and lighthearted experience.
6. Physical Comedy and Slapstick Humor

   The film is rich in physical comedy and slapstick humor, with the Griswolds’ misadventures providing numerous comedic moments. These elements contribute to the film’s lighthearted and entertaining tone.

   • The slapstick humor is well-executed, with scenes like Clark’s chaotic driving through London and his clumsy encounters in Paris, making for some of the most memorable moments in the film. The physical comedy adds a timeless quality to the humor, ensuring that it remains entertaining for audiences across generations.
   • The exaggerated, over-the-top antics contribute to the film’s fun and energetic pace, keeping viewers engaged from start to finish. Whether it’s a car chase or a cultural misunderstanding, the slapstick moments are designed to get a laugh and they do so successfully.
7. Heartwarming Family Themes

   Despite the chaos and slapstick humor, National Lampoon’s European Vacation emphasizes the importance of family bonding. The Griswolds’ adventures, though filled with mishaps, ultimately highlight the love and loyalty that exists within the family, as they stick together through every disaster.

   • Clark’s dedication to making the vacation special for his family, despite the setbacks, showcases his love for them, making him a relatable and endearing character. His persistence in trying to make the trip enjoyable reflects the universal desire to create memorable experiences for loved ones.
   • The family dynamic provides a heartwarming counterbalance to the film’s comedic chaos. It reminds viewers that even in the face of adversity, family is what matters most. The Griswolds’ ability to laugh together and support each other adds depth to the film, making it more than just a series of comedic gags.

How Will You Feel After Watching National Lampoon’s European Vacation (1985)?

After watching National Lampoon’s European Vacation, you will likely feel amused and entertained by its zany antics and over-the-top humor. The film’s light-hearted tone and slapstick comedy will leave you laughing, especially as you witness the Griswolds’ constant misadventures in Europe. Whether it’s Clark’s attempt to drive on the wrong side of the road or the family’s cultural blunders, the humor is relentless and fun.

At the same time, you may feel a sense of warmth as the movie subtly highlights family dynamics. Despite all the comedic chaos, the Griswolds’ love for each other shines through, and this heartwarming aspect of the film adds a layer of depth to the overall experience.

By the end of the movie, you’ll likely feel nostalgic for the 1980s era and appreciative of the film’s blend of humor, adventure, and family values. While the film may not take itself too seriously, it leaves you with a smile and a reminder of the importance of family, making it a feel-good experience.