When it comes to holiday comedies, few films have carved out a legacy quite like National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Released in 1989, the movie blends chaotic family dynamics with laugh-out-loud moments, all centered around the determined yet hapless Clark Griswold, played by Chevy Chase. While Clark’s intention of creating the “perfect family Christmas” is admirable, his methods often lead to more harm than good. Some even argue that Clark isn’t the hero we think he is—but rather the true villain of his own story.
Let’s unwrap why Clark Griswold’s antics might make him more of a Christmas nightmare than a holiday savior.
Clark Griswold: A Holiday Enthusiast or Family Hazard?
Clark Griswold’s ambition to deliver an unforgettable family Christmas is undeniable. From stringing up thousands of twinkling lights to choosing the perfect tree, his efforts are relentless. But as the saying goes, the road to hell is paved with good intentions. Along the way, Clark’s actions often endanger his family, strain relationships, and wreak havoc on everyone around him.
1. Putting His Family in Danger
Right from the start, Clark’s reckless behavior raises eyebrows. In the opening scenes, he engages in a dangerous highway showdown with another driver. His ego and competitive streak nearly lead to a catastrophic accident when he launches his car under a logging truck trailer. While his family clings to their seats in terror, Clark’s pride overshadows their safety.
This isn’t an isolated incident. Later, he drags his family deep into the freezing wilderness in search of the “perfect Christmas tree.” Ignoring his daughter Audrey’s obvious discomfort—her eyelids literally freeze shut—Clark dismisses the subzero temperatures in pursuit of his ideal holiday vision. Prioritizing tradition over common sense, he repeatedly puts his loved ones at risk.
2. Ignoring His Wife’s Advice
Behind every impulsive man is a voice of reason, and for Clark, that voice is his wife, Ellen (Beverly D’Angelo). Throughout the film, Ellen tries to guide her husband with thoughtful advice, but her concerns often fall on deaf ears. She recognizes Clark’s tendency to spiral out of control, yet he stubbornly disregards her warnings.
While their love for each other is evident, Clark’s dismissive attitude highlights his inability to compromise or consider Ellen’s perspective. Her efforts to mitigate the chaos go unappreciated, leaving her to clean up the emotional messes he creates.
3. Destruction of Property and Neighborly Chaos
Clark’s enthusiasm for holiday decorations is legendary—but it often comes at a cost. His over-the-top light display not only blinds his neighbors, Todd and Margo, but also leads to the destruction of their property. Whether it’s a shattered window or a ruined stereo, Todd and Margo suffer collateral damage simply by living next to the Griswolds.
Clark’s lack of accountability adds insult to injury. Instead of addressing the harm he causes, he shrugs off the consequences as if his neighbors deserve their misfortune. It’s comedic for the audience, but for Todd and Margo, it’s a nightmare.
4. Inappropriate Behavior
Clark’s shortcomings extend beyond recklessness—he also has moments of questionable morality. One glaring example is his interaction with a lingerie saleswoman while shopping for Christmas gifts. His flirtatious behavior is not only inappropriate for a married man but also highly embarrassing when his son Russ catches him in the act.
This scene, while humorous, highlights Clark’s lack of self-awareness. His actions often blur the line between harmless fun and disrespect, leaving viewers to wonder if his charm can excuse his behavior.
Clark’s Anger Issues: The Root of His Downfall
Clark’s short temper is another recurring theme in Christmas Vacation. His frustrations often manifest in explosive tantrums, with his iconic rant about his boss being the film’s most memorable moment. While his anger is understandable—especially after receiving a jelly-of-the-month club membership instead of a Christmas bonus—his reaction is anything but rational.
These outbursts aren’t confined to external figures; they also affect his family. Whether he’s berating Cousin Eddie or snapping at Uncle Lewis, Clark’s sharp tongue often alienates those closest to him. His inability to manage his emotions exacerbates the chaos, making him a ticking time bomb during an already stressful holiday.
5. The Fallout of His Actions
What makes Clark’s behavior particularly problematic is his refusal to learn from his mistakes. Throughout the Vacation franchise, his patterns remain unchanged. He bulldozes his way through challenges, ignoring the collateral damage left in his wake. Unlike classic holiday characters like Scrooge or the Grinch, Clark doesn’t experience a transformative moment of self-awareness. Instead, he doubles down on his behavior, leaving his family to bear the brunt of his choices.
Why We Love Clark Griswold Despite His Flaws
So, is Clark Griswold the villain of Christmas Vacation? In many ways, yes. His reckless decisions, thoughtless actions, and fiery temper make him a walking disaster. Yet, his flaws are what make him so relatable. Clark embodies the chaos and imperfection of the holiday season—a time when expectations often clash with reality.
We see ourselves in Clark’s relentless pursuit of the “perfect Christmas.” Who hasn’t felt the pressure to create magical memories, only to have things go hilariously wrong? His missteps remind us that the true spirit of the holidays isn’t about perfection but about the people we share them with.
The Legacy of Christmas Vacation
More than three decades after its release, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation continues to resonate with audiences. Its humor, heart, and timeless depiction of family dysfunction have cemented its status as a holiday classic. At the center of it all is Clark Griswold—a man who, despite his flaws, represents the spirit of determination and hope.
While Clark may not be the hero we expect, he’s the one we’ve come to love. His antics remind us to laugh at our own imperfections and cherish the moments that truly matter.
Conclusion
Clark Griswold’s journey in Christmas Vacation is a rollercoaster of highs and lows. He may not embody the traditional qualities of a holiday hero, but his chaotic charm and unwavering dedication to his family make him unforgettable. Through his misadventures, we’re reminded that the holidays are less about grand gestures and more about the messy, hilarious, and heartfelt moments that bring us together. So, as you gather with loved ones this season, channel your inner Clark—just maybe skip the high-voltage decorations!
