Cast
View AllEd Helms
as Rusty Griswold
Christina Applegate
as Debbie Griswold
Skyler Gisondo
as James Griswold
Steele Stebbins
as Kevin Griswold
Chris Hemsworth
as Stone Crandall
Leslie Mann
as Audrey Griswold
Chevy Chase
as Clark Griswold
Beverly D'Angelo
as Ellen Griswold
Charlie Day
as Chad
Catherine Missal
as Adena
Ron Livingston
as Ethan
Norman Reedus
as Trucker
Keegan-Michael Key
as Jack Peterson
Regina Hall
as Nancy Peterson
Emyri Crutchfield
as Sheila Peterson
Crew
Director
- John Francis Daley
- Jonathan Goldstein
Writer
- John Francis Daley
- Jonathan Goldstein
Producer
- David Dobkin
- Chris Bender
Reviews
Reno
**When the family vacation turns into a nightmare!**
Having not seen any previous films in this series, I had nothing to compare with it and to blame for. Though I have seen many similar films, but it was not as bad as they say. In this kind of theme, the basic storyline always remains same, the remaining parts like the characters, locations and the diversions in the story developments are the key. I think they did that decently, the two new directors who also penned the screenplay.
Well, this is the story of the Griswold family of a couple and their two teen sons. After realising his family is spiritless with the normal life, the husband surprises his wife and the children to go a vacation. The trip is supposed to have fun, but they find hard to come along in a single mood as a family. Meanwhile, their journey begins to face many hurdles, though they are not giving up. So how memorable their adventure becomes is what unfolds in the remaining section.
The cast was good. Both, Ed Helms and Chritina Applegate was impressive, though the film is not laudable. Not all the jokes, but some of them were really cool and most of them were adult stuffs. Yep, this is an R rating film, not a family film, despite the impression you get from its posters. So for the grown ups, this is not a bad film to give a try. I can't suggest or reject on the merit of its previous installments, because I've already given the reason. People like me can definitely have a good time with it.
_6.5/10_
Nov 23, 2016
Thomaxz
As one theres has seeing the originals, I have feared it was a complete rip-off, but yes there is many smilarities, but they have actual succefull made a movie with so much fun and new spins.
Jan 7, 2018
r96sk
<em>'Vacation'</em> is a poor final film (for now, you know they'll make another some day) of this series. It is officially a sequel to the previous films, though it's practically a reboot of sorts - one that, evidently, didn't lead to much. All of this just feels lacklustre and forced.
Ed Helms and Christina Applegate aren't the best pairing, their performances aren't anything to shout about either. Helms particularly feels ill-fitting for his role. Skyler Gisondo and Steele Stebbins, the kids, are actually fairly decent, better than the adults for sure.
Chris Hemsworth's part is a little amusing, though very quickly gets repetitive; despite minimal screen time. Another two who also appear for only a short time are Chevy Chase and Beverly D'Angelo. Good to see 'em return but again, forced. D'Angelo is super sidelined, barely has a line iirc.
Some of the 'supporting cast' are at least interesting to see involved, namely Charlie Day, Ron Livingston, Keegan-Michael Key, Regina Hall and there's a small cameo from a certain <em>'The Walking Dead'</em> star - I didn't expect it, but welcomed all the same.
Anyway, yeah... glad this was the last movie. This 2015 flick is very short of laughs. 5/10 it is, for me.
Feb 6, 2025
Thematic Analysis
Vacation represents a fascinating example of Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director John Francis Daley brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2015, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Vacation took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $31.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 99 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 147 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 1219 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2015, when this film is released:
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Vacation shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Land Ho!, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Vacation offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like CoinCoin and the Extra-Humans and Kuroko's Basketball the Movie: Last Game explore similar territory, Vacation stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: July 28, 2015
- Runtime: 1h 39m
- Budget: $31,000,000
- Revenue: $104,400,000