How They Mastered the Turkey- A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Christmas Vacation Turkey Cooking Technique
How did they do the turkey in Christmas Vacation?
In the beloved American comedy film “Christmas Vacation,” directed by John R. Hunt and released in 1989, the turkey plays a central role in the story. The film revolves around the Griswold family, who are preparing for their annual Christmas celebration. The scene where the turkey is cooked becomes a pivotal moment in the movie, leaving viewers both amused and intrigued about the methods and challenges involved in this festive tradition.
The Griswold family’s attempt to cook the turkey is depicted as a chaotic and comical sequence of events. The film showcases the family’s excitement and anticipation for the holiday feast, with Clark Griswold (played by Chevy Chase) taking on the responsibility of preparing the main dish. However, his enthusiasm and lack of experience in cooking lead to a series of hilarious mishaps.
The first challenge arises when Clark mistakenly buys a turkey that is too large for his oven. As he tries to fit the bird into the oven, it becomes clear that this will not be an easy task. The struggle to maneuver the turkey inside the oven creates a comedic scene that has become iconic in the film.
Once the turkey is finally inside the oven, Clark’s excitement turns to concern as he realizes that he has forgotten to turn it on. The turkey remains untouched, and the family’s anxiety grows. This oversight leads to a frantic search for the oven’s switch, with Clark eventually finding it and turning on the oven.
As the turkey cooks, Clark’s anxiety increases, and he continually checks on its progress. However, his impatience and lack of patience result in him opening the oven door multiple times, causing the turkey to overcook and become dry. The family’s disappointment is evident as they gather around the table, expecting a delicious feast, only to find an overcooked turkey that is no longer enjoyable.
This scene not only adds humor to the film but also highlights the importance of patience and attention to detail in cooking. It serves as a reminder that even the most experienced chefs can face unexpected challenges in the kitchen.
How did they do the turkey in Christmas Vacation?
The Griswold family’s attempt to cook the turkey in “Christmas Vacation” serves as a humorous and relatable depiction of the festive cooking experience. It showcases the potential pitfalls that can arise when one takes on a task they are not fully prepared for. While the turkey ultimately does not turn out as expected, the scene adds to the film’s charm and has become a beloved part of Christmas Vacation’s legacy. Whether it is the Griswolds’ unconventional methods or the iconic oven scene, the film continues to entertain audiences with its blend of humor and heartwarming moments.
