Making the choice to remake or revive a classic franchise of any kind can be a very dangerous one. Choosing to pick up one of the most classic, celebrated comedies of all time, in this instance that of National Lampoon’s Vacation, can definitely welcome criticism from all sides.

Writers/Directors John Frances Daley and Jonathan M. Goldstein have brought in Ed Helms, Christina Applegate to carry on the Griswold legacy in another cross-country trip to Wally World. Is it necessary? Definitely not. Is it as bad as one might expect? Surprisingly no.

The two filmmakers (who penned the screenplay for Horrible Bosses) make their directing debut here and Vacation features a very similar formula to their preceding endeavour, as yet another, a hard R-rated comedy of poop jokes, slapstick humour and a scattergun approach to gags. Not everything sticks, but there is enough in this movie that will make you laugh.

Helms (The Hangover, The Office) is definitely up to task to carry on the Griswold legacy. The actor plays Rusty Griswold, the son of Chevy Chase’s character Clark. Helms, like Chevy’s original character, is a down on his luck Father just trying to deliver the vacation of a lifetime to his family. Unfortunately nothing goes right and Mr. Griswold takes his family along a rather unfortunate, comedic misadventure. Applegate plays Rusty’s wife, Debbie. Applegate yet again proves she is one of the greatest comedic actresses of her generation, and, as ever, is such a joy to watch.

The supporting cast of the film features stars such as Leslie Mann, Beverly D’Angelo, Charlie Day, Keegan-Michael Key, Michael Pena and a surprisingly, hilarious Chris Hemsworth. The best surprise of the film, however, are the two Griswold kids, Skyler Gisondo and Steele Stebbins, who share the majority of the most memorable moments between them. These young actors have brilliant comedic timing and steal just about every scene they are in. However, this film is far from perfect. If you don’t like fart and poop jokes you are not going to like this movie, it’s as simple as that. The humour is sophomoric and there is nothing truly creative nor inspiring in this hackneyed production. It is the same cross-country journey gags you have seen countless times over, and have grown tired of.

Thankfully, there are a handful of laughs to be had, with the occasional, legitimately funny moment that just about justifies the entrance fee. If you are expecting a comedic masterpiece, or a film that is on par with what came before – then you’ll be sure to leave bitterly disappointed. But if you’re in the mood for something undemanding, needing to turn your brain off after a long week at work (or if you just enjoy squirming in your seat for an hour and a half), there’s a good chance you’ll quite enjoy this madcap piece of cinema.