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Poster of The Great Outdoors

The Great Outdoors (1988)

“The wildlife is wild, but his brother-in-law in unbearable.”

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Plot

In the hilarious summer romp, "The Great Outdoors," nostalgia and nature collide as Chet Ripley, the patriarch played by John Candy, yearns for a serene vacation with his family in the enchanting woods of Wisconsin. They look forward to revisiting the honeymoon cabin and spending tranquil days bonding in the midst of untamed wilderness. However, their dreams of peaceful family time swiftly evaporate when an unexpected and unwelcome surprise lands on their doorstep. Without an invitation, the mischievous and fun-loving Craig family, led by high-rolling wheeler-dealer Roman, portrayed by Dan Aykroyd, descend upon the lakeside resort. Roman, his sexually repressed wife, and their eerily peculiar twin daughters plan to squeeze themselves into the Ripley's summer of relaxation, transforming it into a chaotic comedy of errors. The laid-back Chet and his straight-laced clan are now forced to share their "fun in the sun" with the intrusive Craigs. The only common ground between the two in-laws is a boiling mutual disdain that soon escalates into a brother-in-law war, a comedic battle royale to determine who can genuinely appreciate The Great Outdoors. Meanwhile, the idyllic vacation takes a wild turn as a series of unfortunate incidents and mini-disasters unfold. From thirsty leeches and mischievous raccoons to a legendary bear, the challenges of nature add to the mayhem, threatening to obliterate their vacation. Amidst the uproarious chaos, the question remains: What will it take to salvage their summer and find the fun in their interrupted vacation? "The Great Outdoors" is a raucous comedy where family, nature, and hilarity converge, promising a cinematic journey filled with laughter and unforgettable adventures.

Where to watch The Great Outdoors?

The Great Outdoors is a comedy movie featuring Dan Aykroyd and directed by Howard Deutch.

The Great Outdoors is currently streaming on DIRECTV.

It is also possible to buy The Great Outdoors on AMC on Demand, Amazon Video, Apple TV, DIRECTV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, Vudu and YouTube.