National Lampoon's European Vacation

The Griswolds win a European vacation on a game show and set off across the continent with their usual gusto. They try to soak up the sights, the food, and the culture, but their brand of tourist charm is a little too clumsy for the locals. Language mixups, misread maps, and well intentioned missteps turn sightseeing into a series of comic misfires. From grand capitals to rustic stops, their attempts to blend in often backfire in ways that feel more chaotic than cultured. The family clings to their optimism even as every well meant plan seems to drift into misadventure, leaving plenty of laughs in its wake. The humor lands as much in character chemistry as on the punchlines, with Ellen and the kids contributing their own quick wits.

Released in 1985 and directed by Amy Heckerling, this installment in the Vacation series builds on characters created by John Hughes and Robert Klane. It leans into fast visual gags and character driven humor, reflecting Heckerling's approachable directing style.

The film grossed about 49.4 million worldwide against a 17 million budget, making it a solid earner for its era and helping sustain the Vacation series through the mid 80s, inspiring future sequels.

Chevy Chase's Clark Griswold remained a signature presence in 80s comedy, and this European caper added to the franchise's global reach. The film helped cement vacation chaos as a recognizable trope in family cinema, fueling later parodies and giving audiences memorable set pieces. It helped shape later travel comedy globally.

Critics in 1985 treated the film as brisk light fare, praising its rapid gags and the steady energy of its cast, while noting the broad family friendly tone. The movie plays on the tension between optimistic planning and travel realities, turning a vacation into a string of comic misfires overall.