Found this on line: Griswold vs. Bailey

[Nicsone]

Griswold vs. Bailey: A Christmas match?

December 23rd, 2009

It’s well known that “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” throws in a couple cute references to “It’s a Wonderful Life.” The most obvious is when Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase) chainsaws off his newel post, a hilarious allusion to the wobbly railing top in the home of George Bailey (James Stewart).

There’s also a scene where “It’s a Wonderful Life” is playing on a television set in the background of “Christmas Vacation.”

But the two movies share much deeper plot elements. It can be argued that “Christmas Vacation” is, as a whole, one big spoof of “It’s a Wonderful Life.”

In each movie …

… both father figures have big dreams. George Bailey wants to leave Bedford Falls. Clark Griswold wants to buy his family a pool and throw the best Christmas ever.

… these dreams are dashed by “missing” money. Mr. Potter steals George’s savings and loan fund. Griswold’s boss withholds his yearly bonus.

… both movies feature two miserly bosses (Clark’s boss Mr. Shirley and Potter).

… relatives play important negative roles. George’s uncle is at fault for losing money at Potter’s bank. Griswold’ s cousin Eddie crashes Clark’s family Christmas gathering.

… relatives contribute to the redemption of the narrative. George’s brother stages a surprise visit as donations restore George’s standing in the community and offers the closing, sentimental toast. Eddie kidnaps Clark’s boss and forces a police raid that eventually leads to Clark’s restored bonus (cops come for George, too, at the end of “It’s a Wonderful Life”).

… the ending concludes in group song (”Hark the Herald Angles Sing” and “Auld Lang Syne” in “It’s a Wonderful Life” vs. “The Star Spangled Banner” in “Christmas Vacation”).

… a pivotal plot turn involves looking back to the past: George relives his past and Clark gets stuck in attic watching old family movies.

… finally, George and Clark both give money to the desperate (Bailey from his honeymoon fund; Griswold helps out Eddie who needs cash for gifts).

Any other connections we missed?

– Pete Sherman