Good Thinking

Groundhog Day

"What would you do if you were stuck in one place and every day was exactly the same, and nothing that you did mattered?"

Groundhog Day has so much to offer in the way of moral goodness, and it is appropriately worth watching over and over again to pick up new nuances. Phil Connors' character goes through an epic journey of moral reformation, but what the film does so well is making that journey believable.

The gradual growth is seen, and it doesn't cut corners or take shortcuts to get Phil's character to the place they want him to be. When he realizes he's caught in the same day, first he's freaked out, then he's giddy with ideas, then he's focused on making the woman he wants love him, then he's discouraged, then he's depressed to the point of being suicidal, then he's broken and accepting of his situation—and that's when he's finally open to changing his heart toward life.

He starts out a jerk, but his situation brings that person to ruin and gives him an opportunity to build a better version of himself. He tells Rita that he died so many times, and the spiritual parallel here is beautiful: dying and becoming a new creation.

By the end of the movie, Phil is willfully choosing to live each day doing what is right because he understands for himself that that is the best life to live. He doesn't do things based on an angle or getting something he wants. He just does his best to help other people, show kindness, and make each day the best one it can be for others. That's what ultimately leads to Rita falling in love with him.

There is so much to break down and discuss in this movie, which makes it an awesome watch for friends and loved ones. On top of all of that, it is hilarious.

I cannot recommend this movie enough. If you've already seen it, watch it again.

For Those Still Fighting

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