The Griswolds are back! In the 2015 reboot of National Lampoon’s Vacation, Rusty Griswold, Clark’s adult son, attempts to recreate the infamous family trip. The result? A laugh-out-loud disaster on the road to Walley World that honors the original without taking itself too seriously. Packed with modern gags, unexpected celebrity cameos, and a nostalgia-fueled wink to longtime fans, this reboot proves that some family chaos never goes out of style.
Released on Netflix on October 13,Vacation quickly became a hit on Netflix USA, ranking as the second most-watched film in the country. Here’s everything you need to know about Vacation, from plot and cast to reviews and release date. The trailer is at the bottom of the article.
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Vacation – all the key details
- Title: Vacation
- Format: Film
- Runtime: 99 minutes
- Genre: Comedy
- Country of production: United States
- Original language: English
- Release date: July 29, 2015
- Director: John Francis Daley, Jonathan M. Goldstein
- Lead cast: Ed Helms, Christina Applegate, Skyler Gisondo, Steele Stebbins
- Produced by: New Line Cinema
What Vacation is about
Decades after Clark Griswold’s iconic road trips in National Lampoon’s Vacation, the chaos continues for a new generation. In this modern take, Rusty Griswold (Ed Helms) is now an adult with a family of his own. Determined to reconnect with his wife Debbie (Christina Applegate) and their two sons, James (Skyler Gisondo) and Kevin (Steele Stebbins), Rusty plans a cross-country road trip to the beloved amusement park, Walley World. But, as with all Griswold adventures, nothing goes according to plan. A series of hilarious misadventures ensues, testing the family’s bonds while paying homage to the original film’s mix of slapstick chaos and heartfelt moments.
Vacation cast: the main characters
Ed Helms steps into the role of Rusty Griswold, bringing his comedic timing to the iconic character. Known for his roles in The Hangover trilogy and The Office, Helms balances slapstick humor with heartfelt moments as the grown-up Griswold. Christina Applegate portrays Debbie, Rusty’s supportive yet skeptical wife, best known for her Emmy-winning work on Married… with Children and her role in the hit comedy Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy. Skyler Gisondo and Steele Stebbins play their sons, James and Kevin, respectively, adding youthful energy to the film. The film also features memorable cameos, including Chris Hemsworth as Stone Crandall, Rusty’s brother-in-law, and Leslie Mann as Audrey Griswold, Rusty’s sister.
Is Vacation based on a true story?
No, Vacation is a fictional story inspired by the 1983 film National Lampoon’s Vacation, which was based on a short story by John Hughes. The 2015 film serves as a sequel, focusing on Rusty Griswold’s attempt to recreate the family vacation experience for his own family.
What reviews say about Vacation
Vacation has entertained audiences with its blend of modern humor and nostalgic nods to the original. Many viewers have responded warmly, praising the film’s laugh-out-loud moments and the fresh take on the beloved Griswold family. Entertainment Weekly gave it a “B−,” highlighting its funny set pieces and heartwarming family dynamics. Fans of the original and new viewers alike have enjoyed the chaos, comedy, and charm that only a Griswold road trip can deliver.
Where was Vacation filmed?
Vacation was primarily filmed in Georgia, USA. The state’s diverse landscapes provided the perfect backdrop for the Griswold family’s cross-country journey.
Release date on streaming
Vacation is available on Netflix starting October 13, 2025.
