Variations in 'Groundhog Day'
Written by Michael A. Figueroa for 21W.765: Interactive and Non-Linear Narrative
angus@mit.edu



The Variations of Groundhog Day



In Groundhog Day, certain elements vary through the story to help characterize the always changing psychological state of Phil. Although only one is presented in the movie throughout all of Phil's psychological states (the alarm clock), several others are also used at different points to assist.

One such narrative morpheme occurs several times in the beginning of Phil's multiple journeys through Groundhog Day. This morpheme is his conversation with the owner of the bed and breakfast he stays at. This scene undergoes five variations that follow Phil from indifference, through acceptance, and finally into a stage of resolution. This is a brief description on the variations of that scene.

Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Unknown # Days Later
Attitude rude; self-centered; snooty nervous; agitated; confused in disbelief; confused pleasant; cheerful; invigorated tired; w/o hope
Breakfast asks for specialty coffee, stuck with coffee grabs double coffee just walks out without stopping for breakfast gets coffee takes toaster
Conversation She tries to chat, he just blows her off with a reenactment of his weather forcast. Similar to previous day. Asks about deja vu. none He finishes her ideas and doesn't let her talk. Discusses the weather before she can mention it. none
Estimated Departure 100% 75% - 80% none none none
Apparent Psychological State Arrogant Confused Denial Acceptance Resolution

Although the resolution of commiting suicide to end the horror of repeating the same day of one's existence occurs, it later must be discarded for one which is more positive since suicide doesn't break the loop.