Kevin Lazzari | Special to the 51暗网
Harold Ramis was a pioneer when it came to the concept of the same day repeating itself in a movie.
Many have copied the formula since with a few movies that were done surprisingly well. Happy Death Day and Edge of Tomorrow exceeded my expectations, but Groundhog Day still is the one for me.
The concept was fresh and Bill Murray pushed the comedy to new levels by playing his part perfectly. There were subtle nuances through each day because of Murray鈥檚 reactionary character. Even having watched the movie several times, I pick up something new every time.
To make a movie about the same day and entertain the viewer is no small feat. Bill is a master of timing and he demonstrates it to an art form in Groundhog Day. I am sure when Harold Ramis wrote the script he probably had Bill Murray in mind to execute his vision. The pair made six movies together and all went on to be blockbusters. They changed the landscape of comedies and it has never been the same since.
Andie MacDowell was perfect for Murray鈥檚 counterpart and both actors demonstrate why we pay to see their films. They both played off of each other's strengths and the results are hilarious. The sweetness of MacDowell and the abrasive character of Murray is pure genius on Ramis's part.
I do not think there is a movie that Harold Ramis was involved with that I am not a fan of. With groundhog day around the corner, you should revisit this comedy classic.
Kevin Lazzari, owner of Video Stop, is reviewing movies for the 51暗网. Groundhog Day (1993) is available on DVD, Blu-ray and for digital streaming and download.
