Who owns National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation? This iconic American comedy film, released in 1989, has become a staple of holiday viewing for many. Despite its enduring popularity, the question of ownership remains a topic of interest for fans and film enthusiasts alike. In this article, we will delve into the history of the film and explore the various entities that have held ownership over the years.
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik, is based on the 1983 short story “Vacation ’58” by John Hughes. The film stars Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold, a man determined to have the perfect Christmas for his family, only to face a series of mishaps and misadventures. The film’s success has led to multiple sequels, a prequel, and even a theme park attraction.
The original ownership of the film lies with its producer, John Hughes. Hughes, a renowned screenwriter and director, was known for his work on other classic comedies such as “Home Alone” and “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.” After Hughes’ death in 2009, his estate became the owner of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.
However, the film’s distribution rights have changed hands several times over the years. Initially, National Lampoon, the company that published the original National Lampoon magazine, had a hand in the film’s production. In 2006, National Lampoon filed for bankruptcy, and the company’s assets, including the rights to the film, were sold to Lionsgate.
Lionsgate, a major motion picture and television production company, acquired the rights to National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation in 2006. Since then, Lionsgate has been responsible for the film’s distribution and has released several home video editions, including a 25th anniversary edition in 2014.
In 2014, National Lampoon emerged from bankruptcy and regained control of its intellectual property, including the rights to National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. This development led to a renewed partnership between National Lampoon and Lionsgate, with both companies working together to promote and distribute the film.
In conclusion, the ownership of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation has been a complex journey, involving various entities over the years. From John Hughes’ estate to National Lampoon and Lionsgate, the film’s legacy has been preserved and continues to bring joy to audiences worldwide. With its enduring popularity, it’s clear that the question of who owns National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is just one of many mysteries surrounding this beloved holiday classic.
