​It's no secret that I am a huge fan of the Vacation film franchise. I've always loved Chevy Chase and just about anything he's done, and this particular franchise just so happens to feature his finest work in my opinion. To the point where these movies often find their way into my Blu Ray player when I'm in the mood for a laugh, or if I’d like to revisit a little slice of my childhood. 
 
After all, these films have been around with us since 1983, and they're iconic enough that many households, including my own, make sure that Christmas Vacation is required holiday viewing. So, needless to say, every last one of us that happens to be a fan of this franchise, approached the sequel/remake that arrived in 2015 with bated breath, simply because you know how it can go with reboots these days.
 
In fact, that fear of being disappointed in precisely why I didn’t see this movie in theaters when it originally came out. Simply because I couldn’t bear the thought of seeing this franchise fall to pieces on the silver screen. But the opportunity finally arrived to see this film on home video and I simply could no longer pass up giving this one a look. So, without further ado, it's time to answer the grand question... is the film funny? Well, the answer is a resounding yes. 

​Because Vacation manages to bring the laughs after all is said and done and that’s largely due to the fact that the casting here is spot on. For example, Ed Helms, who is the sixth man to play Rusty Griswold in the franchise, is perfect for the role. For he plays Rusty in honest fashion. Complete with a heart as big as his father's when it comes to his family and he is balanced out nicely by long time comedy veteran Christina Applegate, who plays his wife, Debbie. In fact, Christina actually manages to steal the show on several occasions, thanks in part to Christina's incredible and impeccable timing when it comes to comedy and the scene where Debbie visits her former college is proof of all that. 
 
But before you go into this one thinking that it will have that classic feel of the earlier films, know that this is not your dad's Vacation any longer. For the over-the-top nature that comedy employs these days, along with a little cruder brand of comedy, is what fuels this particular trek to Walley World and believe it or not it works. Because the gross out jokes manage to come off without a hitch thanks to Ed Helms' ability to play it straight and Rusty's son Kevin, with his foul mouth and somewhat sociopathic behavior, allows for some genuinely hilarious moments to play out as well. 
 
In the end, this turned out to be a solid entry in the franchise. Is it the best in the series? Heck no. That will always be reserved for Christmas Vacation or the first film, but this one is definitely in the middle of the pack and one worth watching. Because you'll find some solid laughs in this particular film and some of the cameos that pop up are spectacular as well. But what matters most, is that Vacation does get one big thing right. For it serves as a fine reminder that the road trips we all took as a kid were hell at times, but worth it because nothing is as wonderful in this life as family, and it's wonderful to see that message return to the forefront of this storied franchise.

I love comedy underdog films. Those motion pictures that were designed to make us smile that well... bomb at the box office. But when you discover them years later on home video, or via a streaming service, you have to wonder what audiences were thinking. Because in the end, the box office bomb in question, ends up being incredibly hilarious. Such is the case with today’s review. For back in 1997, the supposedly final Vacation film involving the Griswold family, was quickly forgotten by audiences, when it turns out that their last adventure should have been a proper chance, since Vegas Vacation is quite the comedic treat.

Clark Griswold has finally hit bonus pay dirt with one of the many food preservatives he works on. In fact, the payout is so incredibly good, that it is time for the Griswolds to go on another vacation. But one that is a little more grown up than the ones they've taken in the past since they are heading to America's playground... Las Vegas. But Sin City may be more than the family can handle, as the bright lights and big games begin to pull the Griswolds apart, leaving it to Clark and Cousin Eddie to save the day.  ​
 
So, there are likely several reasons as to why audiences avoided this particular feature in the theaters and one of them is likely related to the fact that the National Lampoon’s moniker was removed from the title. A decision that undoubtedly made it seem as though this was a cast-off story for certain, one that somehow displeased the powers that be and motivated them to disown this franchise outright, and audiences take note of little things like that. And sadly, some of the gags in this movie might have contributed to its failure at the box office as well.

​Because at times, the jokes definitely feel forced, which never works for comedy flicks, especially ones present in this franchise. For the Vacation saga always felt organic and the timing of the jokes were always handled in a flawless manner. But the awkwardness of some of the jokes here is painfully apparent and the fact that the movie relies on mugging for the camera, complete with goofy faces, also hurts the comedic moments in question. But while all of these elements make it appear as though I lied, and that this movie deserves its ‘bomb’ status, that’s simply not the case. Because once you look past the awkward stuff and odd marketing decisions, there are some serious laughs to be found in this flick.
 
Take for example Rusty’s journey in this tale, since his desire to become a Vegas player goes swimmingly well and watching him get plunged into an awkward world he doesn’t understand in the slightest, leads to comedic gold for certain, especially when you look at how his journey serves as the foil to his father’s. Because watching Clark fail at every turn to strike it rich in Sin City really does produce some incredible laughs for certain, especially every scene he shares with his Blackjack nemesis in Wallace Shawn, and the goofiness of Clark’s gambling mishaps don’t end there. Because the ‘Poor Man’s Casino’ sequence is the true apex of this nightmarish gaming journey and it features so many perfect moments and rapid-fire jokes that it requires a few viewings to properly soak in its perfection. 
 
If anything, all of those moments speak to Chevy Chase’s abilities as a comedic actor and often times he is what makes this movie feel like the Vacation flicks we know and love, which is important. Because really, the only real knock in regard to this film is that it is lacking something critical that is present in the rest of the franchise. Specifically, the wonder of family and how important it is, despite how crazy family life gets sometimes. Granted the movie tries to make that a thing, but it never quite accomplishes that goal, and that's unfortunate. Because that is what made the series so popular. But either way, this movie is worth watching, because once the laughs start rolling you quickly lose yourself in what ended up being a temporary goodbye to the Griswolds and their wild vacations.

​There are but a handful of Christmas comedy movies that are the stuff of legend. Which is likely due to the fact that, we don't really cherish the idea of making Christmas a funny or silly event. Because this is a day that holds a lot of meaning for people, be it good or bad, and the sacred nature of this day leaves us wanting to celebrate it on film in a respectful manner.
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Granted, that hasn't stopped filmmakers from making comedies about the 25th of December, but truly, I can count on one hand how many of them I am happy to pop in, since so many manage to miss the mark. But there are some that are hilarious and relatable and downright magical in their own right, such as my personal favorite Christmas comedy, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation.  

The Griswolds are once again preparing for a family vacation. Except this time there will be no extravagant road trips to Walley World or adventures through Europe. No, this time around Clark has decided to bring the vacation home for Christmas by inviting all of his family to celebrate Yuletide joy under his family's roof. But as is always the case for Clark, he has bitten off way more than he can chew and it will take all of his might to make this vacation the best one of all.  

​There are pretty much two films I can guarantee will be playing in my house during the holiday season on a regular basis and this one gets the most air time for sure simply because, holy cow is this flick a slice of life for all of us. In fact, there are so many memorable characters, that it became a running gag when I was growing up for my siblings and I to call out which zany character was the doppelgänger for one of our own relatives, the movie is that spot on.  
Plus, it also captures the dynamics of the Christmas season perfectly. Since we too, rush around to get presents, and deal with conflicts at work and most importantly, it reminds us of the frustrations that come with the hectic week that we spend with our family.  Granted, we do love them so, but this is just a wild and stressful time of year and John Hughes' spot on script brings to life everything we love about the holiday and the many things that drive us to want to eat an entire fruitcake. But what makes Christmas Vacation so absolutely magical is that Hughes returns to being the only writer for the film and the sense of family and how wonderful it is to have them, regardless of how zany or flat out nuts they may be simply oozes off the screen. Which makes this movie, a celebration of what matters most on this fine holiday, family and being together and well... emptying the septic tank on your RV when it is full.  

Which is a scene that reminds us that this is also one of the funniest films you will ever see. Because it really is pure comedic gold and also another one that should be in your collection, since it truly is a Christmas classic and one that has become a traditional viewing in my family, since my mother loves to watch it with us if the opportunity arises, and I cannot emphasize enough how gorgeous a film this is. For there's heart, there's hilarity and Christmas Vacation is a movie that stays with you for long after the credits have ended because of how uplifting it truly is.  ​

​Comedy sequels have always been and will continue to be a risky gambit. Simply because of how difficult it is to match the sheer awesomeness of the first film, especially if part one happened to be an incredible mega hit.  

Yet comedy sequels are as constant as a sun rise and if by chance the first film leaves us with bruised ribs from laughing for an hour and a half, the second or third entry in the series will follow, and for proof, look no further than the studio’s response to the box office results and reception of National Lampoon’s Vacation. Because its success and genius hilarity motivated the powers that be to immediately reassemble the Griswold family so they could take another wacky vacation in National Lampoon’s European Vacation.

Now in this particular sequel, the Griswolds are enjoying quite the hot streak on the television game show, 'Pig in a Poke'. For week after week their luck seemingly never runs out, including when they face off against the grand champions and win an incredible two-week vacation to Europe. Which means that once more the Griswolds are preparing to hit the road. But while there is excitement over the possibility to enjoying the sights and sounds of a new country, there are concerns that this trip may end in the same strange manner that their adventure to Walley World did, and those concerns are absolutely justified. Because this is the Griswold family after all, and wacky moments always find them the instant they announce they are taking a little time off.

European Vacation is something of an enigma when it comes to this storied film franchise. Simply because, yes, it is funny, I laughed plenty while watching it. Yet when the film is over and the end credits roll, you're left with a hollow feeling, as though something is missing from this film. Fact is, something is. For while John Hughes receives both a 'Story by' and 'Written by' credit, he shares the latter credit with Robert Klane and it is obvious that changes were made to Hughes' script simply because the endearing magic that we found in the first film isn’t present here.

Yet as I said before, the laughs are there, simply because Chevy Chase is a comedic genius but also because the film is an awesome fish out of water story. Since Clark and his family are the quintessential lost Americans in Europe. For they stumble and bumble through a culture that they most certainly do not belong in and well... it's comedic gold. Which makes this movie worth a watch. But do not go in thinking it will be as hilarious or as incredible as its predecessor... that honor was reserved for the next entry in the series.

​There came a day for all of us many years ago. That day when dad and mom sat us all down to let us know that they had something incredible planned for us. The family was going on vacation and it was going to be glorious. We packed our luggage and loaded up the family car and off we went either by land or air to enjoy incredible memories that would last us a lifetime.  
 
Sounds amazing, doesn't it? But we all know, that wasn't always the case. For despite the fond memories, we carry of our family there were definitely moments we would like to forget from our family vacations. There were the backseat battles between siblings, the fatigue that settled in, the days that no one wanted to get up and see the sights. In some cases, things went terribly wrong and the vacation ended on a sour note. It is all those elements from vacation's past that led legendary screenwriter John Hughes to put together the best and worst moments of all of our family travels in the brilliant comedy, National Lampoon's Vacation.

​Clark Griswold has always dreamed of the perfect vacation. The open road, his family at his side, what could be better? The opportunity finally arrives to take his wife and kids on that dream vacation when Clark decides it is high time, they head to the greatest amusement park in all the land... Walley World. But this vacation will be more than Clark bargained for, because everything that can go wrong... will go wrong.  
 
There are few writers in the history of Hollywood as brilliant as John Hughes. Simply because the man understood people. He knew what made them tick and he poured that into every script he ever wrote. Vacation is no exception to that rule. Simply because John Hughes brought to life every single bad memory, we ever had about the family road trip and made them completely and utterly hilarious. This is hands down, one of the funniest comedies of all time, not only because we can relate to the material but because of how endearing the film is and how perfect Chevy Chase is every second he is on screen. There are few comedic actors with his timing and his chops and Chevy lifts the film to new levels.  
 
But as I said before, the film is endearing because of its underlying message that family is greater than anything. Despite all the hell the Griswold's go through, they still stick together and that makes the film all that more incredible. If by some odd chance you haven't seen National Lampoon's Vacation yet, you need to. In fact, don't waste any time trying to stream it, Redbox it or Netflix it... just go out and buy it, because this is one that belongs in your collection, it's that good.  ​

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘Sunny Side Up’.
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One unfortunate fact about everyday life, is that despite our best efforts to fill our days with peace and harmony; the universe will find a way to inject chaos into our lives. Which might sound like a cynical statement, one that should motivate a person to simply give up when it comes to finding peace and harmony, but that’s simply not the case. Because despite the harsh nature that accompanies that particular statement, chaos doesn’t last forever and if we take the time to observe those wild moments in an objective and rational manner, either during the chaotic event or after… we can in fact, learn something valuable about that moment and grow as a person because of it. But while a great many of us come to understand that as the years roll along and we gain more life experience, not everyone subscribes to that particular methodology in dealing with chaos.
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For unfortunately for some, the anxiety and the terror of a chaotic moment infects their mind and their soul. To the point where they are nervous often and terrified of more chaos entering their lives, and that can have an impact on that person’s quality of life and what’s truly surprising about this particularly unique aspect of everyday life; is that happens more often than we know. For there are a great many people out there who struggle with anxiety and worry over what chaos the world might send their way and we simply don’t talk about this problem enough. However, as time continues along, and our awareness surrounding mental health grows stronger, this is an issue that is starting to get its day in the sun and recently, this reviewer had the opportunity to watch a quality motion picture that covers this topic and a potential fix for it in Sunny Side Up.

Now in this particular film we are introduced to a man named Gregory Samuel who appears to have his life together. After all, he’s got a full-time job working as a funeral director, and that affords him a decent place to live and allows him to follow his hobbies and interests. But there is one tiny little problem that follows Greg wherever he goes, in that, he suffers from severe anxiety and that motivates him to beat himself up mentally on a consistent basis and the paralyzing nature of his anxiety, is starting to impact his work as well. To the point where his boss asks him to take a month off in order to heal his ailing mind and psyche. And while this seems like a wonderful move on his boss’ part, since he can avoid people and his triggers for thirty-days, the unresolved root causes of his anxiety and his friendly and charming neighbor, a one Emma Poesy, are going to force Gregory to do something he has been unwilling to do for some time now. Which is... deal with his problems.

So, the first real subject of note when it comes to this motion picture, is its powerful portrayal of high functioning anxiety. Because we are given a front row seat to Gregory’s affliction and it is just powerful and fascinating to have a voiceover present in this film that perfectly teaches the audience how Gregory and people akin to him, think when it comes to anxiety. In fact, it is handled in such a realistic and brutal manner that at times it makes the viewer quite uncomfortable and that is the point. Simply because this can be debilitating and torturous for those that deal with it, and by portraying it in a frank and honest manner… you are able to understand and sympathize with Gregory’s plight and that invests you in the story and his journey and it leaves you hopeful that he will eventually overcome this issue and lead a more peaceful life.
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Which brings us to the ‘solution’ aspect of the story, since it offers up a bevy of options to folks dealing with this. One of which, relates to the company we keep. Because sometimes we meet and befriend people that truly calm our souls and give us focus and direction and when that happens, we need to hang onto those folks at any cost, especially when they understand an issue like this and don’t shy away from it. Because having those kinds of people around is quite healthy for us and Emma definitely fits that mold in this story, and she is definitely a breath of fresh air in this tale, since she opens Gregory’s eyes to endless possibilities when it comes to enjoying a future free from anxiety. But truly, the most impactful lesson in this film, relates to the fact that in order to enact change in our lives, we actually have to want it.

Because sometimes, we are our own worst enemies, and our fears and our doubts truly do take hold since they are powerful emotions that feed off of our souls. But if we truly commit ourselves to change and really embrace the moment and ignore the ‘what if’, then we can accomplish wonders and find the peace and harmony that we so desperately seek, and that message makes this quite the uplifting film when all is said and done. One that also offers the viewer some quality performances as well since Hunter Davis (Gregory) and Samantha Creed (Emma) are electric on screen together, and their chemistry also allows for this heavy subject matter to have some perfectly timed moments of levity and really, in the end, this is a must-see movie. Simply because it really does tackle some fascinating topics in a wonderfully smooth and inclusive manner. But most important of all, this is a story that offers those who feel overwhelmed by the ills of the world, a touch of hope, and you can never go wrong with a movie that is eager to help and heal its faithful audience.

'Sunny Side Up' is available to watch now via Video On Demand. 

People have some supremely unique views, when it comes to the holiday season. Because for some folks it truly is a magical time, one filled with memories and good food and worthwhile voyages around town to visit with those they love. While on the other hand, there are plenty of people who despise this time of year. Because they have sour memories of the holidays and have family members that they don’t get along with, and that motivates them to avoid the celebrations at all costs. But there is one other interesting aspect that comes to this polarizing view of the holidays, in that, popular media tends to work hard to only spotlight the positive aspects of the season.

Because most movies and shows that take place during this time of year, are about as sweet and cute as they come. Granted, they will inject a little strife into the story, but only so that the characters can overcome it and enjoy the wonder and the majesty of the holiday season by way of hot cocoa and heartwarming carols before the story fades to black. If anything, it is understandable why studios stick to this formula, because sometimes you just need to surround yourself with a warm and fuzzy story. But there isn’t anything wrong with showing the sour side of the holidays, as long as it is handled in an objective fashion and thankfully, there are a few holiday films out there that examine the ‘dark side’ of the season in that manner, and one that is of note is 2008’s, Four Christmases.

Now in this particular film we are introduced to Brad and Kate. Who are a loving if not slightly stuffy couple and well, they’re not big on the holidays. Mainly because their families are a bit of a mess thanks to multiple divorces and constant infighting, and that’s motivated them to always find a way to politely and deceptively decline the many holiday invitations they receive, so they can go enjoy the season on their own terms. But a freakish change in weather and a surprise television interview, reveals to their families exactly how they spend the season, and that unfortunate reveal is now going to force them to celebrate the holidays in a more traditional manner. An act that is going to change their lives and their outlook on the season, in ways they never thought possible.

So, what makes this movie of note, is the sheer fact that it presents the holiday season in a supremely realistic manner. Because we all have shared in the experience of having to venture to multiple houses to eat and exchange gifts and we all know how stressful that can be. After all, you’re on a timetable when it comes to each stop and you’re battling hunger at one point and the meat sweats at another and the relatable moments present in this film, don't end there. For a lot of the characters that we run into during Kate and Brad’s adventures definitely resemble some of our quirkier family members and really, it’s wonderful that the film goes this route. Because not only does it allow for the audience to laugh hearty at the wild situations that play out over the course of this story, but the giggles in question allow for the viewer to lower their guard and become receptive to the lovely messages about the season that this movie sends our way.

Which might make it sound as though this story ends in a supremely happy manner a la It’s a Wonderful Life, but that’s simply not the case. No, instead, this movie doesn’t ask us to use the holidays to solve all of our problems or look for a deeper meaning in regard to our purpose in life while we decorate the tree. It just asks us to forget about the past and the things that frustrate us that we have no control over… and instead look at what we have in front of us right now. Because that’s the stuff that matters and that's the real gift that we've been given. And it also makes a point to inform the viewer, that if you want a little peace within your family life, to go for it and do what you must to get it and really in the end, all of these elements make this comedy a unique one for certain. Simply because it truly does offer up an honest perspective on how we should view the holidays and all the ups and downs that the season sends our way.   

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘HAM: A Musical Memoir’.
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When it comes to theater, there is no style of show that is trickier and riskier, than the one-man show. Because the whole point of theater, is to entertain the audience and ignite awe and wonder from them, all so that they lose themselves within the experience of a live action show. But the one-man show, well it more or less serves as the anthesis of what theater stands for. Because the fourth wall is non-existent during these shows, since they are truly about one person’s life experiences and therein lies the risk. Because when a show is devoid of charisma and showmanship, the performer risks losing the audience and that is why this style of theater has evolved as the years roll along.
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For the performers that attempt this incredible style of show, know that they have to wow and entice and engage the audience and that’s led to some powerful one-man shows over the years, the kind complete with colorful characters that help us to enjoy some semblance of theater before things get heavy. But while adding a little theatrics to a personal journey makes this type of show a tad more palatable, there are still risks involved. Because maintaining the perfect balance of showmanship and honesty, are the keys to making this work, and anything less, could lead to disaster on the stage. But when a performer puts together this type of show and figures out that balance, well the end result is nothing short of pure magic and for proof… then look no further than the recently released film; HAM: A Musical Memoir.

Now in this particular musical we spend a little time with Sam Harris, which is a name that should definitely ring some bells. Simply because Sam was thrust into the spotlight in the early 1980s when he dominated the television talent show, Star Search, by winning it week in and week out and well, that incredible introduction to show business led to quite the career for Sam. One that saw him become a staple of the stage. But while his introduction to fame and struggles in showbiz are important and relevant to this show, what makes this musical so powerful and fascinating and moving is that Sam takes us on quite the incredible journey. One that reflects upon the struggles he's faced in life and the career that he always dreamed of in a perky and powerful manner. Something that Sam accomplishes by finding that perfect balance that we made mention of a moment ago. ​

Because this show knows exactly when to use the music and when to it tone it down in order to properly tell Sam's story, and using this structure allows for Sam to easily transition from memory to memory and it also allows for him to connect with the audience in supremely unique and special manner. Because every musical number he performs is designed to evoke a feeling from a moment in his life and that is what draws the audience in immediately, because we also associate music with poignant and formative moments we've experienced. Which allows for us to connect with Sam on a fundamental level and truly understand what he felt in that moment, and that really is quite the surprise. One that is further enhanced by the fact that Sam outright bares his soul to the audience.

Because this musical journey allows for us to learn about his struggles with depression and his brushes with suicide and how hard it was for him to embrace his sexuality since he grew up in the Bible Belt of America and started his career at a time when the LGBTQ+ community was shunned in every way imaginable. And being able to hear about his struggles and how he overcame the dark stuff and learned to embrace who he is and not be ashamed in the slightest, makes for one powerful experience for certain. For it teaches us to savor the moment and the good that comes into our lives since those moments will never come again and most important of all, Sam’s story makes it clear to anyone that is sharing in some of his struggles or feels like an outcast; that life will in fact get better.

Which is a wonderful message to find within the framework of a one-man show, since these are often designed to simply tell a person’s story and nothing more. But having deeper meaning present here, really does speak to the fact that Sam is grateful for his experiences and his time in the limelight and that he wants to give something back to those who supported him and really, in the end, this particular film is an outright must see. For it really is a perfect one man show, since it is filled to the brim with toe tapping moments, laughter and tears and everything in between. So, if you’re looking for something wonderful and inspiring to enjoy in the midst of all this madness, then definitely give HAM a watch. Because you can never go wrong with a show that celebrates life and everything good and bad that it has to offer.

‘HAM: A Musical Memoir’ is available to stream via Laemmle Theaters right now.