Christmas Vacation's Ruby Sue: Facts & Behind-the-Scenes Secrets

Ever wondered about the young girl with the memorable pigtails in "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation"? The story behind Ruby Sue's wig is far more intriguing than you might expect, revealing a hidden chapter in the life of a child actress.

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, released in 1989, remains a holiday classic, a slapstick comedy that captures the chaotic spirit of family gatherings. Within the madcap world of the Griswold family, we find Clark's mother, Nora, along with Ruby Sue and her brother Rocky, portrayed by Cody Burger. Burger's debut in "Christmas Vacation" occurred when he was just five years old, launching his professional acting career. But another young star, Ellen Hamilton Latzen, who played Ruby Sue Johnson, left an indelible mark on the film. Many of the actors involved in "Christmas Vacation" have gone on to achieve significant success in Hollywood, including "The Big Bang Theory" star Johnny Galecki and Academy Award nominee Juliette Lewis.

Ellen Hamilton Latzen was only nine years old when she charmed audiences as Ruby Sue Johnson. After the holiday classic, she continued acting for a few more years before stepping out of the spotlight for over three decades. One of the most memorable visual aspects of Ruby Sue was her pigtails, but the reason behind them is quite interesting.

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So, why did Ruby Sue wear a wig? Ellen Hamilton Latzen wore a wig for her role in "Christmas Vacation" because she had shaved her head for her previous role in the movie "The Prince of Tides." This detail provides insight into the behind-the-scenes decisions that often shape a character's appearance. It also highlights the dedication and adaptability required of actors, even at a young age.

The film itself, "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation," directed by Jeremiah Chechik, is a comedy masterpiece that revolves around the Griswold family's disastrous attempts to celebrate a perfect Christmas. Clark Griswold, played by Chevy Chase, is determined to make this year's holiday unforgettable, but his plans are continually thwarted by unexpected guests, faulty decorations, and general mayhem. The movie perfectly captures the relatable chaos of family holidays, making it a perennial favorite.

Adding to the film's charm are the numerous memorable quotes and scenes. From Clark's enthusiastic (and often misguided) attempts at holiday cheer to the quirky antics of his relatives, "Christmas Vacation" is full of laugh-out-loud moments. Some standout quotes include:

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• "Uncle Clark, are you sure you ain't Santa Claus?"
• "Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas, kiss my ass."
• "[The newel post is wobbly, so Clark cuts it off with a chain saw] Fixed the newel post."
• "[Spits then gives an okay sign] Looks good."

These lines, delivered with impeccable comedic timing, have become ingrained in popular culture. Beyond the humor, the film subtly explores themes of family, tradition, and the importance of cherishing even the most imperfect moments.

The supporting cast also plays a crucial role in the film's success. Mae Questel, who played Aunt Bethany, delivered her final film performance in "Christmas Vacation." Questel's career began in 1930, and she is best known for providing the voice of Betty Boop. Her presence in the film added a touch of classic Hollywood charm.

The storyline involving Ruby Sue also contributes to the film's comedic elements. One memorable scene involves a running joke about her eyes. As Clark observes, "[Looking at Ruby Sue surprised] Oh my gosh, her eyes aren't crossed anymore." The explanation follows: "She falls down a well, her eyes go crossed. She gets kicked by a mule. They go back to normal." This absurd sequence highlights the film's use of physical comedy and outrageous scenarios to generate laughter.

Another memorable character is Snots, whose defining trait is his uncontrollable sneezing. During a scene, Snots "[blusters a sneeze]," to which Clark responds. These brief but impactful moments contribute to the overall comedic effect of the film.

While "Christmas Vacation" is undoubtedly a comedy, it also resonates with audiences on a deeper level. The film captures the universal experience of dealing with family during the holidays, complete with all the awkwardness, disagreements, and unexpected moments that come with it. The Griswolds' struggles to create the perfect Christmas are relatable, even when taken to extreme comedic heights. Ultimately, the film suggests that the true meaning of Christmas lies not in flawless decorations or extravagant gifts, but in the love and connection shared among family members, regardless of their quirks and flaws.

The film's success can also be attributed to its timeless appeal. Despite being released over three decades ago, "Christmas Vacation" continues to be a holiday staple, enjoyed by audiences of all ages. Its humor transcends generations, and its themes of family and tradition remain relevant. The film's enduring popularity is a testament to its quality and its ability to capture the spirit of the holiday season.

In conclusion, "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" is more than just a funny movie; it's a cultural phenomenon. From Ruby Sue's wig to Clark's over-the-top antics, the film is filled with memorable moments and characters that have become ingrained in our collective consciousness. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the Griswold family, "Christmas Vacation" is a must-watch during the holiday season.

The story behind Ruby Sue's wig adds an extra layer of intrigue to the film, reminding us that even the smallest details can have a fascinating backstory. Ellen Hamilton Latzen's portrayal of Ruby Sue is just one of the many reasons why "Christmas Vacation" continues to be a beloved holiday classic.

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Delving deeper into Ellen Latzens career, before and after Christmas Vacation, reveals a relatively short but impactful period in the entertainment industry. While her role as Ruby Sue remains her most well-known, it's worth exploring the other projects she was involved in, even if information is somewhat limited. This helps to understand the context of her decision to step away from acting later in life.

Before landing the part of Ruby Sue, Latzen appeared in "Fatal Attraction" (1987) where she played Ellen Gallagher, the daughter of Michael Douglas and Anne Archer's characters. Although a small role, being part of such a high-profile and successful thriller at such a young age certainly provided valuable experience. This early exposure likely contributed to her being cast in "Christmas Vacation" just a couple of years later.

The fact that she shaved her head for "The Prince of Tides," released in 1991, indicates a willingness to commit to her roles and a level of professionalism beyond her years. Even though the specific details of her role in that movie and the reasons for shaving her head are not available in the provided context, it showcases her dedication to the craft of acting.

After "The Prince of Tides," Latzen continued to act for a short period, appearing in television shows. However, as the provided information indicates, she eventually chose to leave the spotlight and pursue other interests. This decision is not uncommon for child actors, who often face unique challenges and pressures that can impact their lives in various ways. Some thrive under the attention and continue to build successful careers in Hollywood, while others find that the lifestyle is not sustainable or desirable in the long term.

The decision to take a break from acting for over three decades suggests that Latzen prioritized other aspects of her life, such as education, personal growth, or family. Without further information, it's impossible to know the specific reasons behind her choice, but it's clear that she made a conscious decision to step away from the entertainment industry and pursue a different path.

It's also interesting to consider the impact that "Christmas Vacation" has had on Latzen's life. While she may have chosen to leave acting behind, her portrayal of Ruby Sue has ensured that she remains a recognizable face to many. The film's enduring popularity means that she will forever be associated with the character, and that she will likely continue to be asked about her experiences on set.

The film's success also provided opportunities for other actors, as well. The text mentions Johnny Galecki and Juliette Lewis, highlighting how being involved in a popular film can open doors to further success in Hollywood. While Latzen chose a different path, it's important to acknowledge the role that "Christmas Vacation" played in shaping the careers of many of those involved.

Returning to the specific detail of the wig, it's worth considering the technical aspects of filmmaking and the choices that are made to create a character's appearance. The decision to have Latzen wear a wig was likely a practical one, as it allowed her to maintain the look of Ruby Sue without having to wait for her hair to grow back. This detail highlights the importance of hair and makeup in shaping a character's identity on screen.

Moreover, the wig itself may have contributed to the character's overall appeal. The pigtails, in particular, added to Ruby Sue's youthful and innocent appearance, making her a relatable and endearing figure for audiences. It's a testament to the skill of the costume and makeup departments that they were able to create a look that perfectly complemented the character's personality.

In summary, the story of Ruby Sue's wig is a small but intriguing detail that sheds light on the behind-the-scenes aspects of filmmaking and the choices that are made to create a memorable character. Ellen Hamilton Latzen's portrayal of Ruby Sue, combined with the film's enduring popularity, has ensured that she remains a beloved figure in holiday movie history. Her decision to leave acting behind only adds to the mystique surrounding her career and her life after "Christmas Vacation."

The enduring appeal of "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" also lies in its ability to tap into the anxieties and frustrations that many people experience during the holiday season. The Griswolds' chaotic family gatherings, their struggles to decorate the house, and their encounters with eccentric relatives all resonate with audiences who have experienced similar situations. The film's humor allows us to laugh at the absurdity of it all and to find comfort in the shared experience of holiday madness.

The film's success also lies in the chemistry between the cast members. Chevy Chase's portrayal of Clark Griswold is iconic, and his comedic timing is impeccable. Beverly D'Angelo, as Ellen Griswold, provides a grounded and supportive presence, even as her husband's antics become increasingly outrageous. The supporting cast, including Randy Quaid as Cousin Eddie, also delivers memorable performances that contribute to the film's overall comedic effect.

Furthermore, "Christmas Vacation" is a film that can be enjoyed by audiences of all ages. While some of the humor may be more appreciated by adults, the film also contains plenty of slapstick and visual gags that appeal to children. This intergenerational appeal is one of the reasons why the film has become a holiday tradition for many families.

The film's soundtrack also plays a significant role in creating the festive atmosphere. The use of classic Christmas carols, combined with original music, helps to evoke the feeling of the holiday season. The soundtrack also contributes to the film's overall comedic effect, with certain songs being used to punctuate specific scenes or gags.

In addition to its humor and its festive atmosphere, "Christmas Vacation" also contains moments of genuine warmth and sentimentality. The film reminds us that, despite the chaos and the stress of the holidays, what truly matters is the love and connection we share with our family and friends. This message of togetherness is one of the reasons why the film continues to resonate with audiences year after year.

The film's influence can also be seen in other holiday movies and television shows. Many of the tropes and comedic devices that were popularized by "Christmas Vacation" have been replicated in other productions, solidifying its place as a seminal work in the genre. The film has also inspired countless parodies and homages, further demonstrating its cultural impact.

Ultimately, "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" is a film that celebrates the spirit of the holidays in all its messy, chaotic, and heartwarming glory. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the Griswold family, the film is sure to bring a smile to your face and to remind you of the true meaning of the season. And the story behind Ruby Sue's wig is just one small detail that adds to the film's overall charm and intrigue.

So, the next time you watch "Christmas Vacation," take a moment to appreciate the story behind Ruby Sue's wig and to remember the talented actress who brought the character to life. And while you're at it, be sure to cherish the moments you share with your own family and friends during the holiday season, even if things don't always go according to plan. After all, as the Griswolds demonstrate, it's the imperfections that often make the holidays the most memorable.