National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation

Of the enormously popular "Vacation" film comedies of the 1980s, National Lampoon's "Christmas Vacation" was perhaps the most successful. With two previous smashes to their credit, the cast and production team had the formula down to a science; and "lampooning" the conventions of Christmas in middle America was a foolproof premise. The film doesn't miss a trick, and, with a clever script, and generous doses of elaborate slapstick, keeps viewers consistently entertained; but it is the wonderfully colorful cast that truly brings off to perfection the plethora of gags.

Chevy Chase's wry, comedic style works perfectly for the role of Clark, patriarch of the Griswold clan. His talent for physical comedy serves him well in this madcap romp. As his steadfastly supportive wife, Beverly D'Angelo scores her own share of laughs, though in far subtler fashion. Already a gifted comedienne at age 15, Juliette Lewis is terrific as their blas� teenage daughter. When the entire family arrives to spend Christmas with the Griswolds, the real fun begins. Ellen's "loving" parents, played by Doris Roberts, and E.G. Marshall, could not be more vicious. Wearing a double-knit leisure suit, Randy Quaid gives an outrageous performance as redneck cousin Eddie, who unexpectedly brings his entire clan to spend the holidays. However, the show is stolen by veteran comic Mae Questel as Clark's hilariously senile Aunt Bethany, and William Hickey as Uncle Lewis. Once the voice of cartoon characters Betty Boop and Olive Oyl, Questel made a number of cameo appearances in films. Sadly, "Christmas Vacation" was to be her last. And special credit must be given to the attack squirrel living in the Griswold Christmas tree, who terrorizes the entire brood.

Handsomely appointed in a decorative "steelbook" package, the newly remastered Blu-ray edition of "Christmas Vacation" has just been issued by Warner Brothers. The 2-disc set includes both a Blu-ray and DVD version. The original film quality was not outstanding, so don't expect to be blown away by the new Blu-ray. Yet, the high-definition visuals are clean and crisp, an appreciable improvement over all the previous, home video incarnations. Hardly Eisenstein or Fellini material, the film is not supplemented by documentaries or substantial special features; although there is amusing audio commentary by Randy Quaid, and other cast members, as well as the original, theatrical trailer. Each copy of this new release contains an Ultraviolet key, allowing the viewer to access the film from just about any location.

The attractive, new "Christmas Vacation" Blu-ray package is a surefire holiday gift, certain to provide a slew of chuckles throughout the season.

Christmas Vacation
Blu-ray
$34.99
www.warnerbros.com