When it comes to comedy, National Lampoon comes to mind as one of the most significant names.
What began as a wacky and often raunchy humor magazine for college kids in the 70s and 80s grew into a far-reaching brand in comedy films. Though they've also dabbled in radio, live theatre, and various print products.
National Lampoon, known best for classics like Animal House and the Vacation film series, has seen a wide range of silly comedies under its name over the decades.
The original publication, which has since become National Lampoon Inc. in 2002, has seen more than its share of duds in recent history, to be sure. Yet, the name has largely become synonymous with teenage comedies, and has helped inspire films like Porky's and American Pie with their uniquely zany style. They've left a lasting impression, which still has teens and adults chanting "TOGA!" today.
With this list, we'll cover the 10 highest rated films of their history, as ranked by Imdb.com
Repli-Kate (5.7)
This little-known National Lampoon production from '02 has plenty of the tropes and juvenile humor you might expect from a sex comedy - especially one from the producers of American Pie.
It centers on Max Fleming, a brainiac grad student who's managed to craft a cloning machine. A magazine reporter by the name of Kate just happens to drop a bit of blood following a cut, which is apparently all that's needed for a clone of her to be created. Max Fleming takes the clone under his wing in order to turn her into his idea of the "perfect woman," only to find he really has feelings for the real Kate.
This cheekily-titled romp scarcely ventures beyond a "guilty pleasure comedy," though it has occasional bouts of college-bro humor.
Senior Trip (5.7)
While National Lampoon was still mostly hitting the funny bones of viewers in the 80s, they had begun to slide for many during the following decade. Senior Trip from '95 serves as a prime example, only occasionally hitting its mark when it comes to laugh-out-loud moments.
As you'd imagine from a National Lampoon teen comedy, a slew of wacky gags and crazy hijinks ensue, along with over-the-top slapstick and sex jokes. Outside of the appearance of Tommy Chong as the bus driver and a few quotable moments, there are few redeeming qualities here.
Vegas Vacation (6.0)
The first Vacation film to wipe the "National Lampoon" label in front of its name also manages to be a low point in the once iconic franchise. Still, while some noted that this '97 sequel gets a little over-the-top and cheesy, you've still got that trademark Vacation humor.
The typical blunderings and ineptitude of Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase) are in full force, providing a slew of funny gags as he takes his family on a trip to Las Vegas. You've also got Cousin Eddie (Randy Quaid), who's gone cartoon-level bonkers by this point.
While many view Vegas Vacation as a degree less memorable or witty compared to others in the series, the Vegas setting sets the stage for a fun plot and humorous hijinks.
Hard Four (6.1)
This even cruder, little-known comedy romp from '07 manages to edge out its Vegas-themed counterpart by a single point.
After the famous gambler Golden Hands Segal collapses from a heart attack, his grandson Freddy and his buddy Spencer must scramble to retrieve the body for burial across the country in under a day.
The movie rolls with that typical National Lampoon slapstick, booze-related gags, and shock laughs in a way that's hit and miss for its viewers. The film contains some funny performances by Samuel Gould and Charles Dennis - the latter of whom also takes the reigns as director and writer. There's even an appearance by Bryan Cranston as Lt. Bryce Baxter. Overall, this wacky road trip movie falls flat more often than not, with its odd premise and clash of styles.
Loaded Weapon 1 (6.2)
Given that this spoof of Lethal Weapon comes from the folks behind some particularly hilarious radio and highschool yearbook parodies, one would expect a bit more from Loaded Weapon 1.
Still, there are plenty of funny moments to be had in this satirical action-comedy, strengthened by performances by Samuel L. Jackson and Emilio Estevez. The premise is an amusing one - involving an unlikely duo of LA cops investigating a case of cocaine in girl scout cookies. And while it's not quite Airplane level, this underrated satire typically delivers with its spoofs ranging from Basic Instinct to 80s commercials to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
European Vacation (6.2)
This Vacation sequel from '85 gets the misfortune of being compared to the iconic original, where it tends to fall relatively short. Many have pointed to this follow-up as feeling cliche and overly silly at times. Yet, despite some over-the-top goofiness and the absence of the original actors of the Griswold children, European Vacation does have some funny bouts.
Following their win in a particularly goofy game show, Clark and his family embark on a trip to Europe. In the vein of the original, just about everything that can go wrong does, largely thanks to the European culture shock. Indeed, these colorful foreign settings set the stage for some silly moments and make for an entertaining watch.
Van Wilder (6.4)
The college experience can produce some fun, memorable moments, even to the point where the prospect of graduating can be intimidating. National Lampoon's Van Wilder demonstrates this notion in their characteristically zany, over-the-top way. Unlike some of their recent efforts though, this 2002 comedy rarely feels too desperate or juvenile, and in fact, has some endearing moments.
Still, there is plenty of that recognizable slapstick, sex gags, and one-liners. The film's given life by humorous performances by Ryan Reynolds, Tara Reid, and Kal Penn - the latter of whom would land his own sequel. Animal House, this is not - but it's nonetheless a funny college comedy for a younger generation.
Vacation (7.4)
Filmmaker John Hughes occupied himself during the Chicago Blizzard of 1979 by writing a short story called "Vacation '58" which was sent to National Lampoon magazine and soon published. They then optioned it for a film idea, which eventually became this classic Chevy Chase laugher.
This '83 road comedy, directed by Harold Ramis, involves a family vacation across the country that spirals out of control as Clark and his family run into a slew of mishaps. This wacky, but somewhat relatable premise hit all the right notes for many viewers.
Hilarious gags and slapstick, funny zingers, and a colorful cast round out what's still regarded as one of the best comedies of the 80s.
Animal House (7.5)
Like our previous entry, Animal House has largely been elevated to "icon" status with its game-changing brand of comedy, unique themes, and likable cast.
Following the success of their magazines and radio show, this '78 classic instantly put National Lampoon on the map in terms of films. This fratboy comedy features stand-out comedic performances by a range of actors plucked from SNL in addition to Chicago's Second City comedy club.
John Belushi, Stephen Furst, and a host of other funny characters provide countless laughs, helping to make Animal House the gold standard in teen comedies that would inspire hits like American Pie and Old School down the line.
Christmas Vacation (7.6)
Largely regarded as both the peak of the Vacation series and a top-tier Christmas film, this '89 classic has become a long-running staple in holiday programming. Chevy Chase is in prime comedic form with his silly antics and angry tirades, who's supported by a host of funny, likable on-screen family members.
The film draws from the tried-and-true Vacation formula of family mishaps, while injecting a unique holiday charm.
Christmas Vacation runs with a simple concept - a man trying to host the best family Christmas ever - while being chock-full of hilarious gags and memorable moments. From giant Christmas trees to troublesome squirrels and explosive sewer gas, there's no shortage of funny bouts.