On this day June 17, 1988, The Great Outdoors premiered in theaters, bringing together two comedy powerhouses of the 80s. Starring Dan Aykroyd, John Candy and Annette Bening in her film debut, the movie was written and produced by John Hughes and directed by Howard Deutch.
The film follows a Chicago family on a summer vacation in the woods, only to have their peaceful getaway disrupted by the arrival of obnoxious relatives. With wild animals, water sports and slapstick chaos, The Great Outdoors became a fun family comedy full of memorable moments and quotable lines.
John Candy’s lovable everyman charm and Dan Aykroyd’s slick fast talking character made for a perfect comedic clash. The film was a modest box office success and remains a summer movie favorite for 80s fans.
80s insight: The Great Outdoors captured the spirit of family vacations in the 80s with humor, heart and just the right amount of bear attacks.
The film follows a Chicago family on a summer vacation in the woods, only to have their peaceful getaway disrupted by the arrival of obnoxious relatives. With wild animals, water sports and slapstick chaos, The Great Outdoors became a fun family comedy full of memorable moments and quotable lines.
John Candy’s lovable everyman charm and Dan Aykroyd’s slick fast talking character made for a perfect comedic clash. The film was a modest box office success and remains a summer movie favorite for 80s fans.
80s insight: The Great Outdoors captured the spirit of family vacations in the 80s with humor, heart and just the right amount of bear attacks.
