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Beverly D'Angelo Says Christmas Vacation Hand Gesture Was an On-Set Ad-Lib

Her recollection points to a single remaining take that preserved the subtle bit in the final cut.

Overview

  • D'Angelo told Fox News Digital that the moment where Ellen freezes with her hand on Clark's crotch was not scripted and was improvised during the police scene.
  • She said the production had one take left at the end of the day, which meant the shot remained because it was the only usable version.
  • According to D'Angelo, Chevy Chase was informed beforehand and reacted, "You can't do that," believing the director would not allow it.
  • She noted that the small gesture is more noticeable to audiences now due to larger home screens and high-resolution viewing.
  • Renewed holiday interviews also highlighted cast chemistry and other set stories, including a squirrel swap during filming, as the 1989 film continues to air and stream as a seasonal staple.