Review of Groundhog Day (1993) by Ben L — 26 Mar 2017

I believe, if you truly want to measure the impact of a film you look at how many imitators sprout up. Groundhog Day clearly was a trend-setter because it seems dozens of movies and TV shows have latched onto the concept of reliving a day over and over until you get it right. Groundhog Day has become a classic because it not only introduced a unique concept, but it taught a lesson as well. Plus it has completely changed what I think of when I hear "I've got you, babe" on the radio.

Bill Murray was a perfect casting decision. He has the range to play both the egomaniacal jerk and the lovable do-gooder. Plus Andie MacDowell is perfect as an innocent love interest. Of course there are a number of other great supporting actors that add to the film as well. The range of emotions that everyone has to play is remarkable, made even more amazing by the fact that they undoubtedly filmed one version of a scene right after another.

But with all the praise I've offered, the real masterpiece is the story of Phil's journey. This movie actually offers several deep messages. Phil explores so many options, from the lowest low to the highest high. In the end he discovers that he can find love only when he stops looking for it and focuses on making himself someone worth loving. All this and one of the funniest movies ever made? That's why Groundhog Day is so amazing.