National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is a holiday classic filled with unforgettable moments and hilarious gifts. From Clark Griswold’s aspirations for the perfect family Christmas to the unexpected arrival of Cousin Eddie, the film showcases a variety of presents that range from the comical to the touching. This article explores the most memorable gifts in the movie, including the infamous Jelly of the Month Club subscription, Clark’s bonus check surprise, and the heartwarming exchanges between family members. Join us as we unwrap the humor and sentiment behind the gifts in this beloved Christmas comedy.
The gifts in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation serve as more than just props; they embody the spirit of the holiday season and the complexities of family relationships. Clark’s anticipation of a substantial Christmas bonus reflects his desire to provide for his family, while the actual gift he receives – a one-year membership to the Jelly of the Month Club – becomes a source of both frustration and humor. Other presents in the film, such as Clark’s thoughtful gift to his father and the children’s excitement over their presents, showcase the warmth and generosity that lie at the heart of the Christmas celebration. Through these various gifts, the movie explores themes of expectation, disappointment, and the true meaning of holiday giving.
The Iconic Jelly of the Month Club Membership
In the beloved holiday classic ‘National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,’ the gift that sends Clark Griswold into a comedic meltdown is none other than the infamous Jelly of the Month Club membership. This unexpected gift in Christmas Vacation becomes a symbol of corporate indifference and a catalyst for hilarious chaos. The Jelly of the Month Club, presented as a substitute for Clark’s anticipated Christmas bonus, represents the pinnacle of disappointing gifts and serves as a comedic cornerstone of the film’s plot.
The Jelly of the Month Club membership, while initially perceived as a lackluster gift, inadvertently becomes an iconic element of the movie. Its significance lies not in its monetary value but in its ability to highlight the disconnect between employee expectations and corporate reality. This gift in Christmas Vacation sparks a series of events that ultimately lead to some of the most memorable scenes in the film, including Clark’s impassioned rant about his boss and the unexpected arrival of Cousin Eddie to ‘help’ rectify the situation.
Despite its initial reception, the Jelly of the Month Club membership has gained a cult following among fans of the movie. In fact, it has inspired real-life gift ideas and merchandise, proving that sometimes the most memorable presents are not the most expensive or elaborate. The irony of this gift in Christmas Vacation is that while it initially appears to be a thoughtless gesture, it ultimately contributes to the film’s enduring charm and humor, making it a beloved part of holiday movie culture.
Clark’s Unexpected Bonus: A Symbolic Gift
In the beloved holiday classic ‘National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,’ Clark Griswold’s anticipation for his annual Christmas bonus reaches a fever pitch, only to be met with an unexpected and symbolic gift that becomes a pivotal moment in the film. As the family patriarch, Clark had been counting on this bonus to cover the cost of installing a backyard swimming pool, a dream he had been nurturing throughout the movie. However, when the moment of truth arrives, Clark’s employer, Mr. Shirley, presents him with a subscription to the Jelly of the Month Club instead of the customary cash bonus, leaving Clark stunned and disappointed.
This unconventional gift in ‘Christmas Vacation’ serves as more than just a comedic plot device; it represents the disconnect between corporate management and their employees, as well as the commercialization of the holiday season. The Jelly of the Month Club membership, while seemingly thoughtful, falls drastically short of Clark’s expectations and needs, highlighting the stark contrast between his dedication to his job and the company’s lack of appreciation for his efforts. This moment in the film resonates with many viewers who have experienced similar disappointments in their professional lives, making it a poignant commentary on the modern workplace.
‘Clark, that’s the gift that keeps on giving the whole year.’ – Cousin Eddie
Despite the initial shock and frustration, this unexpected gift ultimately leads to one of the most heartwarming moments in the film. Clark’s cousin-in-law, Eddie, upon learning of the situation, takes matters into his own hands by kidnapping Mr. Shirley and bringing him to the Griswold home. This act of misguided loyalty results in a confrontation that forces Mr. Shirley to reconsider his decision, eventually leading to the reinstatement of the Christmas bonuses. In this way, the Jelly of the Month Club membership becomes a catalyst for positive change, reminding viewers that sometimes the most meaningful gifts are not material possessions, but the bonds of family and the spirit of togetherness that define the true essence of the holiday season.
| Expected Gift | Actual Gift | Symbolic Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Cash Bonus | Jelly of the Month Club Membership | Corporate Disconnection |
The True Gift: Family Togetherness and Holiday Chaos
While the gift in Christmas Vacation may initially seem to be the disappointing Jelly of the Month Club membership, the true present lies in the chaotic yet heartwarming family togetherness that unfolds throughout the film. Clark Griswold’s relentless pursuit of the perfect family Christmas, despite numerous setbacks and mishaps, ultimately brings everyone closer together in ways that no material gift ever could. The Griswold family’s holiday adventure is a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with laughter, frustration, and ultimately, love.
The film beautifully illustrates how family dynamics can be both challenging and rewarding, especially during the holiday season. Consider the following aspects of family togetherness showcased in the movie:
- Multigenerational bonding: Grandparents, parents, and children all under one roof
- Dealing with eccentric relatives: Cousin Eddie’s unexpected arrival and unique personality
- Overcoming obstacles together: From frozen pipes to electrocuted cats
- Supporting each other’s dreams: The family rallying behind Clark’s bonus disappointment
The chaos that ensues throughout the movie serves as a catalyst for bringing the family closer together. As the saying goes,
Frequently Asked Questions
The Christmas tree represents family traditions and the chaos that often accompanies the holiday season, serving as a backdrop for the Griswold family's misadventures.Clark Griswold, played by Chevy Chase, embodies the spirit of Christmas through his relentless pursuit of the perfect holiday experience, showcasing both his optimism and his tendency to overlook the obstacles that come his way.Clark Griswold hopes for a Christmas bonus from his employer, which he intends to use for a swimming pool, symbolizing his desire for family joy and fulfillment.The Griswold's Christmas lights extravaganza goes awry when a power surge causes the entire neighborhood to be illuminated, highlighting the humorous extremes to which Clark goes to create the perfect holiday.The other family members have mixed reactions to Clark's Christmas plans, ranging from skepticism to humor, often reflecting the various stressors and expectations that come with family gatherings during the holidays.Cousin Eddie, played by Randy Quaid, represents the unexpected and often humorous chaos that family can bring during the holidays, highlighting themes of acceptance and unconditional love.The overall message of 'Christmas Vacation' is that the true gift of the holiday season lies not in perfection or material success, but in the love and laughter shared with family, despite the inevitable mishaps.