Abstract
Groundhog Day has been recognized by leaders of many religions as an inspirational film. It tracks all the responses a person might have to the suspicion that the world has no God, design, or inherent purpose: first, transgressive self-indulgence; next, acedic depression; and finally, redemptive benevolence. During the filming, however, a conflict in vision between Harold Ramis and Bill Murray tore apart their friendship. Ramis wanted a romantic comedy founded on evolution from arrogance to selfless benevolence; Murray preferred a darker satire. Although the finished film reflects Ramis's vision of comedy--the genre of spring--Murray's satirical gestures leave traces of winter that subtly undermine the inspiring climax.
Recommended Citation
Glausser, Wayne
(2019)
"Groundhog Day at 25: Conflict and Inspiration at the Tipping Point of Seasonal Genres,"
Journal of Religion & Film: Vol. 23:
Iss.
1, Article 49.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.unomaha.edu/jrf/vol23/iss1/49