Some might be surprised by the inclusion of this movie at the number three spot, but, what can I say, this is the most traditional Christmas movie on this list.

#3 National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

Here is probably the only movie on this top five list that I’ve never owned, either on VHS or DVD. In fact, Melissa and I were discussing whether or not we’ve ever seen the entire thing straight from beginning to end. I may have done it once a long time ago, now I see bits and pieces of it around the holidays, but that’s about it.

If you’ve never seen this movie, or any of the Vacation movies, this is one that you should see. Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, this movie will make you laugh. I was never a huge fan of European Vacation and I hated Vegas Vacation, I always felt this was a true winner in the series and probably the closest we’ll ever get to see of a family reunion of sorts. Starring Chevy Chase and Beverly D’Angelo returning as the Griswolds, this 1989 comedy is considered a modern classic for Christmas and honestly, is one of the few movies on this list (not including #1) that I’ve actually seen within the last year. Chevy Chase is always funny as Clark and how can we not give any credit to crazy man Randy Quaid as Cousin Eddie (it’s funny how Randy Quaid is probably crazier in real life then his National Lampoon character).

Giving a short description of the film, it pretty much follows the Griswold family on yet another misadventure of a vacation, this one involving the entire family coming over for the holidays. I don’t think I need or have to say anymore. I can only wish that they made comedies like this today. And there are very few people that have the comedic timing of Chevy Chase and I fully appreciate his character on NBC’s sitcom ‘Community’.

With its great balance of physical and verbal comedy, in my opinion, no Christmas is complete without at least watching a part of this movie.