The Complete Guide To National Lampoon's Iconic Comedy Movies.

What are National Lampoon movies? They are a series of comedy films produced by National Lampoon, a humor magazine founded in 1970. The films are known for their raunchy humor, slapstick comedy, and memorable characters.

The first National Lampoon movie, National Lampoon's Animal House, was released in 1978 and was a huge success. It was followed by a number of other successful films, including National Lampoon's European Vacation (1985), National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989), and National Lampoon's Loaded Weapon 1 (1993). The 1983 film National Lampoon's Vacation is frequently ranked among the funniest movies ever made, particularly for its iconic scene involving a station wagon and a Griswald family road trip.

National Lampoon movies have been praised for their humor and originality. They have also been criticized for their raunchy content and lack of political correctness. However, there is no doubt that they have had a major impact on American comedy.

Some of the most famous National Lampoon movies include:

• National Lampoon's Animal House (1978)
• National Lampoon's European Vacation (1985)
• National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989)
• National Lampoon's Loaded Weapon 1 (1993)
• National Lampoon's Senior Trip (1995)

National Lampoon Movies

National Lampoon movies have become a cultural phenomenon, offering a unique blend of humor, satire, and social commentary. Here are seven key aspects that explore the essence of these iconic films:

• Raunchy Humor: National Lampoon movies are known for their over-the-top, often raunchy humor.
• Slapstick Comedy: Physical comedy and slapstick routines are a staple of National Lampoon movies.
• Memorable Characters: The films feature a cast of unforgettable characters, from the bumbling Clark Griswold to the rebellious John Blutarsky.
• Cultural Impact: National Lampoon movies have had a significant impact on American culture, influencing everything from comedy to language.
• Social Commentary: Despite their comedic nature, National Lampoon movies often contain sharp social commentary.
• Nostalgia: The films evoke a sense of nostalgia for many viewers, reminding them of their childhood or teenage years.
• Timeless Appeal: Despite their age, National Lampoon movies continue to entertain audiences of all generations.

These key aspects work together to create a unique and enduring cinematic experience. National Lampoon movies are not just comedies; they are cultural touchstones that have left an indelible mark on American society.

Raunchy Humor

Raunchy humor is a defining characteristic of National Lampoon movies. It is a type of humor that is characterized by its use of explicit sexual language, nudity, and other taboo subjects. Raunchy humor can be found in all of the National Lampoon movies, from the early films like Animal House to the later films like Van Wilder. It is one of the things that makes these films so popular with audiences.

• Over-the-Top: The raunchy humor in National Lampoon movies is often over-the-top and exaggerated. This is what makes it so funny. The films do not shy away from using explicit language and nudity, and they often push the boundaries of good taste. This can be seen in scenes like the "food fight" in Animal House and the "sex scene" in Van Wilder.
• Satirical: The raunchy humor in National Lampoon movies is often satirical. The films use humor to poke fun at social norms and institutions. For example, Animal House satirizes the American college system, and Van Wilder satirizes the American high school system. This satire can be seen in the films' characters, who are often outrageous and over-the-top.
• Popular: The raunchy humor in National Lampoon movies is popular with audiences. This is because it is funny, relatable, and subversive. Audiences enjoy watching films that push the boundaries of good taste, and they appreciate the films' satirical take on social norms. This popularity can be seen in the films' box office success and their enduring legacy.

The raunchy humor in National Lampoon movies is a defining characteristic of these films. It is what makes them so popular with audiences. The films use humor to poke fun at social norms and institutions, and they do not shy away from using explicit language and nudity. This raunchy humor is funny, relatable, and subversive, and it is one of the things that makes National Lampoon movies so enduring.

Slapstick Comedy

Slapstick comedy is a type of physical comedy that relies on exaggerated physical actions and pratfalls to generate humor. It is a staple of National Lampoon movies, and it is one of the things that makes these films so popular with audiences.

There are many reasons why slapstick comedy works so well in National Lampoon movies. First, it is a very visual type of comedy, which makes it easy for audiences to follow and enjoy. Second, slapstick comedy is often very exaggerated, which makes it even funnier. Third, slapstick comedy is often used to satirize social norms and institutions, which can make it very effective in getting a point across.

Some of the most famous examples of slapstick comedy in National Lampoon movies include the food fight in Animal House, the scene where Clark Griswold falls into the pool in National Lampoon's Vacation, and the scene where Van Wilder gets hit in the face with a pie in Van Wilder.

Slapstick comedy is an important part of National Lampoon movies. It is one of the things that makes these films so popular with audiences, and it is one of the things that makes them so enduring.

Memorable Characters

National Lampoon movies are known for their memorable characters. These characters are often outrageous and over-the-top, but they are also relatable and lovable. They are the heart and soul of the films, and they are one of the things that makes them so popular with audiences.

• Exaggerated Personalities: The characters in National Lampoon movies are often exaggerated versions of real people. They are larger-than-life and often have very strong personalities. This exaggeration makes them funny and memorable, but it also makes them relatable. Audiences can see themselves in these characters, even if they do not always agree with their actions.
• Comic Relief: The characters in National Lampoon movies often provide comic relief. They are the ones who make the audience laugh, even when the situation is serious. This comic relief is important because it helps to keep the films from becoming too dark or depressing. It also helps to make the films more enjoyable for audiences.
• Satire: The characters in National Lampoon movies are often used to satirize social norms and institutions. For example, the character of Clark Griswold is a satire of the American father figure. He is bumbling and incompetent, but he is also loving and supportive. This satire helps to make the films more than just comedies; it also makes them thought-provoking.
• Cultural Impact: The characters in National Lampoon movies have had a significant impact on American culture. They have been referenced in other films and television shows, and they have even been used in advertising. This cultural impact is a testament to the enduring popularity of these characters and the films they star in.

The memorable characters in National Lampoon movies are one of the things that makes these films so special. They are funny, relatable, and thought-provoking. They are also a testament to the enduring power of comedy.

Cultural Impact

National Lampoon movies have had a significant impact on American culture. They have influenced everything from comedy to language. The films' raunchy humor, slapstick comedy, and memorable characters have made them popular with audiences of all ages. This popularity has led to the films being referenced in other films and television shows, and even being used in advertising.

One of the most significant ways that National Lampoon movies have influenced American culture is through their use of language. The films have popularized many catchphrases and slang terms, such as "Animal House," "National Lampoon's Vacation," and "Van Wilder." These phrases have become part of the American lexicon, and they are still used today.

National Lampoon movies have also influenced American comedy. The films' over-the-top humor and satirical take on social norms have helped to shape the way that we think about comedy. Many of the films' jokes and gags have been imitated by other comedians, and they have even been used in political satire.

The cultural impact of National Lampoon movies is undeniable. The films have influenced everything from comedy to language. They have become a part of American culture, and they continue to be enjoyed by audiences of all ages.

Social Commentary

National Lampoon movies are known for their raunchy humor and slapstick comedy, but they also often contain sharp social commentary. This commentary is often satirical, and it takes aim at a variety of targets, including American culture, politics, and religion.

• Satire of American Culture: National Lampoon movies often satirize American culture. For example, the film Animal House satirizes the American college system, and the film National Lampoon's Vacation satirizes the American family vacation. These films use humor to point out the absurdities and hypocrisies of American culture.
• Satire of Politics: National Lampoon movies also often satirize politics. For example, the film National Lampoon's Animal House satirizes the Vietnam War, and the film National Lampoon's Loaded Weapon 1 satirizes the American government. These films use humor to point out the absurdities and hypocrisies of American politics.
• Satire of Religion: National Lampoon movies also often satirize religion. For example, the film National Lampoon's Animal House satirizes the Catholic Church, and the film National Lampoon's Van Wilder satirizes the Christian faith. These films use humor to point out the absurdities and hypocrisies of religion.

The social commentary in National Lampoon movies is often subtle, but it is always there. The films use humor to make their points, but they also make serious statements about American culture, politics, and religion. This social commentary is one of the things that makes National Lampoon movies so enduring. The films are not just funny; they are also thought-provoking.

Nostalgia

National Lampoon movies have a strong nostalgic appeal for many viewers. This is because the films are often set in the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, and they feature characters and storylines that are familiar to people who grew up during those eras. For example, the film National Lampoon's Animal House is set in the 1960s and features a group of college students who are rebelling against the Vietnam War. This film is likely to evoke a sense of nostalgia for people who grew up during that time, as it reminds them of their own college experiences or the political and social climate of the era.

Another reason why National Lampoon movies are so nostalgic is that they often feature humor that is specific to a particular time and place. For example, the film National Lampoon's Vacation is full of jokes about family road trips and the American vacation experience. This film is likely to evoke a sense of nostalgia for people who grew up taking family road trips, as it reminds them of their own childhood vacations.

The nostalgia that National Lampoon movies evoke can be a powerful force. It can make people feel happy, sad, or even both at the same time. It can also make people feel connected to their past and to other people who share their experiences. This is one of the reasons why National Lampoon movies are so popular and enduring. They offer viewers a chance to revisit their past and to experience the feelings of nostalgia that come with it.

Timeless Appeal

National Lampoon movies have a timeless appeal that transcends generations. Despite being released decades ago, these films continue to resonate with audiences of all ages. This enduring popularity can be attributed to several key factors:

• Relatable Characters: National Lampoon movies feature relatable characters that audiences can connect with on a personal level. These characters are often flawed and dysfunctional, but they are also lovable and sympathetic. Audiences can see themselves in these characters, which makes the films more enjoyable and meaningful.
• Universal Themes: National Lampoon movies explore universal themes that resonate with people of all ages. These themes include family, friendship, love, and the search for meaning in life. These themes are timeless and appeal to audiences regardless of their age or background.
• Nostalgic Appeal: National Lampoon movies often evoke a sense of nostalgia for viewers. These films are set in a time and place that many people remember fondly. This nostalgia can make the films more enjoyable and meaningful for viewers who grew up during that era.
• Clever Humor: National Lampoon movies are known for their clever and witty humor. This humor is often satirical and subversive, but it is also accessible to audiences of all ages. The films' humor keeps audiences entertained and engaged, even after multiple viewings.

These factors combine to create a timeless appeal that ensures that National Lampoon movies will continue to entertain audiences for generations to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About National Lampoon Movies

This section provides answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about National Lampoon movies.

Question 1: What is a National Lampoon movie?

National Lampoon movies are a series of comedy films produced by National Lampoon, a humor magazine founded in 1970. The films are known for their raunchy humor, slapstick comedy, and memorable characters.

Question 2: What is the most popular National Lampoon movie?

National Lampoon's Animal House (1978) is generally considered to be the most popular National Lampoon movie. It is a raucous comedy about a group of college students who rebel against the Vietnam War.

Question 3: Who are some of the most famous actors who have appeared in National Lampoon movies?

Some of the most famous actors who have appeared in National Lampoon movies include Chevy Chase, Bill Murray, John Belushi, and Harold Ramis.

Question 4: What is the cultural significance of National Lampoon movies?

National Lampoon movies have had a significant cultural impact on American society. They have influenced everything from comedy to language. The films' raunchy humor and satirical take on social norms have helped to shape the way that we think about comedy.

Question 5: Are National Lampoon movies still popular today?

Yes, National Lampoon movies are still popular today. They continue to be enjoyed by audiences of all ages. The films' timeless appeal can be attributed to their relatable characters, universal themes, nostalgic appeal, and clever humor.

Question 6: Where can I watch National Lampoon movies?

National Lampoon movies are available to watch on a variety of streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. They are also available to purchase on DVD and Blu-ray.

Summary of key takeaways or final thought:

National Lampoon movies are a unique and enduring part of American culture. They are known for their raunchy humor, slapstick comedy, and memorable characters. The films have had a significant cultural impact and continue to be enjoyed by audiences of all ages.

Transition to the next article section:

The next section of this article will explore the social commentary found in National Lampoon movies.

Conclusion

National Lampoon movies have been a staple of American comedy for over 40 years. They have influenced everything from comedy to language. Their raunchy humor, slapstick comedy, and memorable characters have made them popular with audiences of all ages.

But beyond their entertainment value, National Lampoon movies also offer a sharp social commentary. They satirize American culture, politics, and religion. They point out the absurdities and hypocrisies of our society. They make us laugh, but they also make us think.

National Lampoon movies are more than just comedies. They are a reflection of our culture. They are a reminder that even in the darkest of times, we can find humor. They are a reminder that we are not alone.