Exploring the Setting- Decoding the Backdrop of ‘National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation’
Where is National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Based?
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, a classic American comedy film released in 1989, has left an indelible mark on the hearts of many viewers. The film, directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik, follows the misadventures of Clark Griswold, a middle-aged man who dreams of creating the perfect Christmas for his family. But as the story unfolds, his efforts lead to a series of comedic mishaps. The question that often arises among fans is: where is National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation based?
The film is primarily set in the fictional town of Christmas, Indiana, a small, picturesque community that embodies the quintessential American Christmas spirit. Christmas, Indiana is a composite of various Midwestern towns, with its charm and warmth reflected in the snowy scenes, cozy homes, and festive decorations. The film’s setting is designed to evoke nostalgia and the simple pleasures of the holiday season.
Although Christmas, Indiana is a fictional town, it draws inspiration from several real-life Midwestern towns. The film’s production team chose to shoot the movie in and around Columbus, Indiana, a city known for its rich architectural heritage and picturesque landscape. Columbus provided the perfect backdrop for the snowy scenes and small-town atmosphere that are central to the film’s charm.
The Griswold family’s home, the iconic Griswold residence, is another aspect of the film that has sparked curiosity among fans. The house is a combination of several real-life homes in Columbus, Indiana, and the surrounding area. The filmmakers used these homes as inspiration to create the Griswold home, which serves as the central setting for the film’s many comedic moments.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film takes place at the fictional Wally World, a shopping mall that serves as the backdrop for several key moments in the movie. Wally World is a nod to the real-life Walmart stores that are ubiquitous across America. The mall’s presence in the film adds to the sense of realism and relatability for viewers.
In conclusion, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is based on the fictional town of Christmas, Indiana, a charming and picturesque community that serves as the backdrop for the film’s many comedic adventures. While the town itself is fictional, the film draws inspiration from real-life Midwestern towns, creating a perfect blend of reality and imagination that has made it a beloved classic for generations.
