Remaking a beloved comedy is a tricky thing because you’re going to ruin someone’s childhood, obviously. Most 1980s comedies are sacred and remakes were seemingly verboten for many years, but perhaps that’s about to change. The “Vacation” redo, from writers turned directors duo John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein (“Horrible Bosses” and “The Incredible Burt Wonderstone”), seemed like a pretty horrible idea when it was first announced, but don’t all of them? And the first red-band trailer was pretty damn funny too.
But it’s actually not a reboot and is more of a belated sequel, which features the Griswolds’ son Rusty all grown up (played by Ed Helms) and on a new mission to recreate the classic family holiday to Walley World. The movie also stars original “Vacation” couple Chevy Chase and Beverly D’Angelo in their classic roles as the now graying Griswold grandparents and also co-stars Christina Applegate, Michael Pena, Chris Hemsworth, Charlie Day, Skyler Gisondo, Steele Stebbins, Regina Hall and Keegan-Michael Key. Here’s the official synopsis:
Following in his father’s footsteps and hoping for some much-needed family bonding, a grown-up Rusty Griswold (Helms) surprises his wife, Debbie (Applegate), and their two sons with a cross-country trip back to America’s "favorite family fun park," Walley World.
By the way, you’ll note that “Vacation” was originally set for a October 9th release date and then was suddenly bumped up earlier in the year to a much-more summer friendly July 29 opening. This is because New Line’s film has apparently tested through the roof and the studio are very confident about this one being just a very funny and satisfying comedy that should connect with summer moviegoing audiences. Watch the new trailer and let us know if you agree.