Movies

John Candy’s ‘The Great Outdoors’ Is Now Streaming on Netflix—Laugh Your Way Again

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If you’re in need of a hearty chuckle, prepare yourself for “The Great Outdoors” – an underappreciated ’80s comedy gem – making its way to Netflix! Penned by John Hughes and featuring the comedic talents of Dan Aykroyd and John Candy, this film takes us on the chaotic Ripley family vacation in northern Wisconsin. What was meant to be a serene escape turns into mayhem when unexpected relatives unexpectedly show up and disrupt the tranquility.

The idea is straightforward: Chet Ripley, an outdoorsy Chicagoan character played by Candy, plans a peaceful retreat for his family at a lakeside cabin. However, the peacefulness fades when Roman Craig, portrayed by Aykroyd and not invited, shows up with his family, causing a stir of personalities. The ensuing events, penned by Hughes, are a blend of homage and light satire, showcasing intricate American family dynamics.

In a relatable, everyday humor style characteristic of Candy, the character Ripley showcases the struggle of a caring father who attempts to keep order amidst pandemonium. His distinctive emotional openness makes Chet’s escalating annoyance both amusing and compassionate. Aykroyd shines in his energetic portrayal of Roman, an aggravatingly annoying character whose charm lies in his irritation. Despite initial controversy, The Great Outdoors arrives on Netflix this June, offering a worthwhile re-watching experience.

The Legacy of Slapstick and Sentiment

Some viewers adore this movie for its unrestrained zaniness, while others find it simplistic due to its widespread humor and repetitive plot points. This divide in opinion might stem from the film’s preference for physical comedy over the intricate character development that characterized John Hughes’ teen-oriented films. Unlike Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, which delved into depth through dialogue, The Great Outdoors leans more towards visual gags, slapstick falls, and escalating chaos.

As a movie enthusiast, I must confess that I found “The Great Outdoors” to be a nostalgic throwback to classic family-oriented slapstick comedies. Some critics may have viewed it as predictable, with its city dwellers versus nature, family vacation gone awry, and contrasting parenting styles narrative – but perhaps they missed the mark.

This film doesn’t aim for greatness or even good-enough status; instead, it pays homage to the beloved slapstick comedies that were popularized by the likes of National Lampoon. Daniel Stern and John Candy deliver their best within this formulaic framework, but the real charm lies in the film’s nod to the genre’s rich history.

Nevertheless, some scenes from the movie have become iconic, even earning cult status. The raccoon invasion scene is a comedic highlight – watching the family struggle to outsmart those pesky woodland creatures brings on plenty of laughs. However, it’s the legendary “Old 96er” steak challenge that truly showcases Candy’s dedication. Roman wagers Chet he can’t finish a monstrous 96-ounce steak dinner. What unfolds is a mix of triumph and agony as Candy tackles this ridiculously large meal.

A Time Capsule Worth Revisiting

Today, The Great Outdoors can be seen as both entertaining and a cultural artifact, offering a glimpse into the late 1980s fascination with authentic outdoor experiences, even though many suburban families were not fully equipped for true wilderness adventures. The film offers a revealing look at masculinity, family dynamics, and leisure activities of that time, showcasing the era’s values and concerns. Despite being somewhat predictable, it maintains a warm and affectionate tone towards its characters and situations, which stands out in an increasingly cynical comedy landscape. John Hughes’ portrayal of families, despite their flaws, demonstrates a heartwarming belief that they ultimately care for and support each other.

There’s an authentic truth in appreciating the amusing yet frustrating dynamics at family get-togethers – the way relatives can be both irritating and endearing, how well-meaning actions often result in epic failures, and how even the worst shared experiences eventually transform into cherished recollections. Although The Great Outdoors may not be one of Hughes’ most notable works, it delivers as a heartfelt portrayal of family chaos that continues to attract new fans eager to savor its charming pandemonium. With its arrival on Netflix, it’s certainly worth another viewing – it offers more than just sentimental fluff, encapsulating the beautiful disarray of family life.

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2025-06-04 01:34

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