What if you could relive one day from your life over and over again? What if it's not one of your greatest days, but rather a terrible day?
Groundhog Day is a movie touching upon the same theme. It's as relevant today, as it was when released decades ago in 80's. It made Bill Murray a pop culture phenomenon, and set the template for many similar concept movies in future generations. For those who haven't watched it yet, I wouldn't spoil it for you, as I so desperately want all of you to watch it once. But I will touch upon my reason for recommending it without ruining your plot suspense.
Unlike many other good or bad time travel movies, Groundhog Day is about a man trapped in his past 24 hours. A self centered, despicable, yet funny and smartass TV reporter Bill is forced to relive this horrible snowy day again and again and again. He tries to change the outcome of certain events. While at it, he often tries to get shifty and bypasses the society's rules because hey, no consequences. But soon gets overridden by frustrated and grief, because he can't derive a lasting happiness out of it. It is reset every morning 6am, back to the old 24 hours. Whatever Bill tries to change the facts, he has to relive the same heartbreak, the rejection and the constant reminder about what a jerk he is, every single Groundhog Day. Which of course, leaves him miserable.
In many ways, I could see my own life reflected in Bill's predicament. I too share some of his personality traits.
But the lesson from this masterful comedy I took was Bill's eventual change of mindset, and in some way my own.
When we begin perceiving others around us in a kinder manner, we discover kindness for ourselves and accept our own identities with existing shortcomings. Bill became this kind, forgiving, better person after getting trapped in those 24 hours. Where are you trapped dear readers?
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