The Vacation series of National Lampoon's movies is a good idea, because a lot of us can relate to the trials and tribulations that come from family vacations. However, it seems they only had enough material to make 2 decent movies. European Vacation is possibly the worst of the entire series, and I genuinely found myself questioning my choice to rewatch it now. I didn't count, but I think I only laughed 3 times throughout the entire length of this film. Most of the way through I was struggling to find what they even intended to be funny. It's like they wrote vignettes, but completely forgot to add any jokes, or it would just be a single lame joke spread out over 10 minutes. It seems like there is an abundance of comedy to be had in the concept of American tourists struggling in foreign countries (and how those foreigners view us) but the writers couldn't find the humor. The slapdash plot is boring, and never feels like there is progression. Then when they start to run out of time in the film they shoehorn in a bit of drama to force the family to come together and pretend to get over their issues for a few minutes before the credits roll. It's hard to express how disappointing this film is, particularly when considered in the context of the movies that came before and after it in the series. National Lampoon's European Vacation is one trip I wouldn't suggest anyone go on, because at best you'll just get a few weak chuckles out of it.
