Clark Griswold

Chevy Chase plays the role perfectly. Just like Ellen, he played Clark Griswold before Christmas Vacation, but the turn in National Lampoon's holiday affair gives him a better, more festive character development. Chevy is able to deliver uproarious laughter and sentimental sweetness as Clark, a man who just wants to recreate the hap-hap-happiest family Christmas that he had as a child. The scene in the attic is so endearing, but then, of course, he goes and makes a fool of himself. But every year we root for him and every year he wins. You're a good man, Clark Griswold.