Groundhog Day Screenplay by Danny Rubin - for educational purposes
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Feb 01, 2015
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About This Presentation
לקום אתמול בבוקר - התסריט מאת דני רובין
למטרות חינוכיות בלבד
Groundhog Day
By Danny Rubin
For educational purposes
Slide Content
GROUNDHOG DAY
by
Danny Rubin
Final Revision 9/6/92
by Harold Ramis.
Revised Blue 3/7/92
Revised Pink 3/13/92
Rovised Yellow 3/17/82
Revised Greon 4/24/92
Rlvised Goldenrod 4/24/92
by
Danny Rubin
Final Revision 9/6/92
by Harold Ramis.
Revised Blue 3/7/92
Revised Pink 3/13/92
Rovised Yellow 3/17/82
Revised Greon 4/24/92
Rlvised Goldenrod 4/24/92
Revised Pink 3/12/92
FADE TN
EXT. PITTSBURGH - DAY
de see the domtom skyline of Pittsburgh, che tall buildings
Sprouting trom a triangle formed by the three rivers, the
Allegheny, the Monongahela, and the Ohio.
ROLL CREDITS AND THEME MUSIC
A TV NEWS VAN marked “WPBH Action News - Pittsburgh” is leaving
the city. The van travels across a bridge and disappears into
a tunnel.
cur To:
EXT. INTERSTATE - LATER
The van cruises through the frozen countryside of Western
Pennsylvania.
PHIL (V.0.)
ton the carphone)
with me you don't just get a
weatherman. T give you a
Personality with the eredibility
58 a first-class journalist.
INT. THE VAN - CONTINUOUS
PHIL CONNORS, the Action News weatherman is talking on the
phone. He's in hia mid-thireies, amare, rugged-locking, perhaps
a Jitize too full of himself, but cleariy'a guy with a lor of
personality.
PHIL
(on the phone)
Look ot uy tape, you'll gat ie,
LARRY & RITA
(together)
We've seen it.
PHIL
Strange, I got a very positive
response from another network.
LARRY, the union cameraman and techie, is driving. He snorts 2:
Phil's bald-faced lie.
LARRY
Yeah, that would be the Home
Shopping Network.
(CONTINUED)
FADE TN
EXT. PITTSBURGH - DAY
de see the domtom skyline of Pittsburgh, che tall buildings
Sprouting trom a triangle formed by the three rivers, the
Allegheny, the Monongahela, and the Ohio.
ROLL CREDITS AND THEME MUSIC
A TV NEWS VAN marked “WPBH Action News - Pittsburgh” is leaving
the city. The van travels across a bridge and disappears into
a tunnel.
cur To:
EXT. INTERSTATE - LATER
The van cruises through the frozen countryside of Western
Pennsylvania.
PHIL (V.0.)
ton the carphone)
with me you don't just get a
weatherman. T give you a
Personality with the eredibility
58 a first-class journalist.
INT. THE VAN - CONTINUOUS
PHIL CONNORS, the Action News weatherman is talking on the
phone. He's in hia mid-thireies, amare, rugged-locking, perhaps
a Jitize too full of himself, but cleariy'a guy with a lor of
personality.
PHIL
(on the phone)
Look ot uy tape, you'll gat ie,
LARRY & RITA
(together)
We've seen it.
PHIL
Strange, I got a very positive
response from another network.
LARRY, the union cameraman and techie, is driving. He snorts 2:
Phil's bald-faced lie.
LARRY
Yeah, that would be the Home
Shopping Network.
(CONTINUED)
Revised Pink 3/12/92
PEIL
ton phone)
I'm getting some annoying static
here, San... i'm mobile.
Something's ‘breaking. ..i‘ve got to
be chere...Let's hook up
tomorrow. /2"11 call you...
whatever .- .Bye-Bye.
He hangs up and glares at Larry.
PHIL
Larry, can you keep a secret? Im
probably leaving PSH. Which means
this is the last time 1 do the
Groundhog.
LARRY
What's wrong with the groundhog
festival? when I worked in San
Diego, 1 covered the swallows
coming back to Capistrano six
years in a row.
PHIL
You should've killed the guy who
made you do that.
LARRY
I wanted to do it.
PHIL
then you should'ye killed
yourself. One of these days
Someone's going to catch me
interviewing a groundhog and think
T'éon't have a future.
RITA, the producer, sits contentedly in the jump seat behind and
Beruten Larry and fhit.' she la conpetent,“perspnabie, ‘humorous,
self-assured and very pretty-- in short, a genuine princess,
though Phil is too self-absorbed at this point to realize it.
RITA
_(leaning in)
1 think it's a cure story, He
comes out, he looks arcund, he
wrinkles up his little nose, he
Sees his shadow, he doesn't see
his shadou-- it's nice. People
Like it.
(CONTINUED)
PEIL
ton phone)
I'm getting some annoying static
here, San... i'm mobile.
Something's ‘breaking. ..i‘ve got to
be chere...Let's hook up
tomorrow. /2"11 call you...
whatever .- .Bye-Bye.
He hangs up and glares at Larry.
PHIL
Larry, can you keep a secret? Im
probably leaving PSH. Which means
this is the last time 1 do the
Groundhog.
LARRY
What's wrong with the groundhog
festival? when I worked in San
Diego, 1 covered the swallows
coming back to Capistrano six
years in a row.
PHIL
You should've killed the guy who
made you do that.
LARRY
I wanted to do it.
PHIL
then you should'ye killed
yourself. One of these days
Someone's going to catch me
interviewing a groundhog and think
T'éon't have a future.
RITA, the producer, sits contentedly in the jump seat behind and
Beruten Larry and fhit.' she la conpetent,“perspnabie, ‘humorous,
self-assured and very pretty-- in short, a genuine princess,
though Phil is too self-absorbed at this point to realize it.
RITA
_(leaning in)
1 think it's a cure story, He
comes out, he looks arcund, he
wrinkles up his little nose, he
Sees his shadow, he doesn't see
his shadou-- it's nice. People
Like it.
(CONTINUED)
2
Revised Pink 3/12/92
CONTINUED:
|. PEIL
You really are new, aren't you,
Wet behind the ears. People like
head cheese, too. People are
RITA
Nice attitude.
PHIL
Do you want a mirror so you can
see your face when you wrinkle up
your nose?
Rita smiles self-consciously and leans back in her seat.
EXT. HIGHWAY ~ LATER
The van swings off the interstate and onto a two-lane highway.
INT. THE VAN - SAME TIME
Larry is munching on a bag of Fritos. He offers one to Phil.
LARRY
Frito?
PHIL,
So 1 can spend forty minutes on a
treadmill walking it off? Thanks,
no. à
Rita is watching the passing landscape with interest.
RITA .
It’s pretty out here, isn't it?
(to Phil)
What's Punxsutawney like?
Phil looks up from the magazine he”.
PHIL
A magical, enchanted place. It's
the Constantinople of the entire
Western Appalachian-Susquehanna
Drainage.
reading.
She knows Phil mainly by his reputation and it isn't good.
Still, she finds him appealing in an odd way.
Do you always joke?
(CONTINUED)
Revised Pink 3/12/92
CONTINUED:
|. PEIL
You really are new, aren't you,
Wet behind the ears. People like
head cheese, too. People are
RITA
Nice attitude.
PHIL
Do you want a mirror so you can
see your face when you wrinkle up
your nose?
Rita smiles self-consciously and leans back in her seat.
EXT. HIGHWAY ~ LATER
The van swings off the interstate and onto a two-lane highway.
INT. THE VAN - SAME TIME
Larry is munching on a bag of Fritos. He offers one to Phil.
LARRY
Frito?
PHIL,
So 1 can spend forty minutes on a
treadmill walking it off? Thanks,
no. à
Rita is watching the passing landscape with interest.
RITA .
It’s pretty out here, isn't it?
(to Phil)
What's Punxsutawney like?
Phil looks up from the magazine he”.
PHIL
A magical, enchanted place. It's
the Constantinople of the entire
Western Appalachian-Susquehanna
Drainage.
reading.
She knows Phil mainly by his reputation and it isn't good.
Still, she finds him appealing in an odd way.
Do you always joke?
(CONTINUED)
Revised Pink 3/13/92
5 CONTINUED:
pa
iim shy and i'm sensitive so 1
kid =
sora
A io: of people around the station
think you're not very sincere.
PHIL
Well, 1 hope I've convinced you.
cur 10:
6 EXT. HIGHWAY - LATER
The van starts passing small businesses and fi
the outskirts of town.
st food places on
A BILLBOARD
“Welcome to Punxsutawney - The Original Weather Capitol of the
World Since 1867." Depicted on the sign is a large cartoon
GROUNDHOG wearing a top hat ond clutching an umbrella under his
The van passes the billboard and enters Punxsutawney.
cur To:
7 EXT. MAIN SQUARE - PUNKSUTAWNEY - LATER
The van drives around the picturesque town square. There are
serrcon groundhogs everywhere you lock, and, the wnple tom has
been gaily festooned with banners and bunting. The street is
already crowded with parked cars including a number of other
‘he van pulls up to the Pennsylvanian, the oldest and “best”
hotel in town and they all get out.
Phil takes one look at the hotel and shakes his head.
PHIL
Rita! 1 can't stay here.
Rita is already helping Larry unload equipment from the van.
LARRY
(mut eering)
(CONTINUED)
5 CONTINUED:
pa
iim shy and i'm sensitive so 1
kid =
sora
A io: of people around the station
think you're not very sincere.
PHIL
Well, 1 hope I've convinced you.
cur 10:
6 EXT. HIGHWAY - LATER
The van starts passing small businesses and fi
the outskirts of town.
st food places on
A BILLBOARD
“Welcome to Punxsutawney - The Original Weather Capitol of the
World Since 1867." Depicted on the sign is a large cartoon
GROUNDHOG wearing a top hat ond clutching an umbrella under his
The van passes the billboard and enters Punxsutawney.
cur To:
7 EXT. MAIN SQUARE - PUNKSUTAWNEY - LATER
The van drives around the picturesque town square. There are
serrcon groundhogs everywhere you lock, and, the wnple tom has
been gaily festooned with banners and bunting. The street is
already crowded with parked cars including a number of other
‘he van pulls up to the Pennsylvanian, the oldest and “best”
hotel in town and they all get out.
Phil takes one look at the hotel and shakes his head.
PHIL
Rita! 1 can't stay here.
Rita is already helping Larry unload equipment from the van.
LARRY
(mut eering)
(CONTINUED)
Revised Pink
CONTINUED:
RITA
It's okay. I'll handle it.
(crossing to him)
Wnat's the problem, Phil?
PHIL
I hate this place. I stayed here
two years ago, I was miserable.
Feig a Heabag.” Tim not staying
RITA
You're not staying here.
PHIL,
(brightening)
I'm not?
RITA
Ne, I booked you at a very nice
bed and breakfast on Cherry
Street. Larry's just dropping me
off, then he’ll take you over
there.
PHIL
(pleased)
Great. That's great. I think
that's the mark of a really good
producer. Keeping the talent
happy -
RITA
Whatever 1 can do.
PHIL
Really? Talent needs a foot
massage?
RITA
Within reason. Would you like to
have dinner with Larry and ne?
PHIL
No thanks, I've seen Larry eat.
You want to ditch Larry and let me
take you someplace nice?
RITA
You mean like a date?
rare
Yeah.
(CONTINUED)
3/13/92
CONTINUED:
RITA
It's okay. I'll handle it.
(crossing to him)
Wnat's the problem, Phil?
PHIL
I hate this place. I stayed here
two years ago, I was miserable.
Feig a Heabag.” Tim not staying
RITA
You're not staying here.
PHIL,
(brightening)
I'm not?
RITA
Ne, I booked you at a very nice
bed and breakfast on Cherry
Street. Larry's just dropping me
off, then he’ll take you over
there.
PHIL
(pleased)
Great. That's great. I think
that's the mark of a really good
producer. Keeping the talent
happy -
RITA
Whatever 1 can do.
PHIL
Really? Talent needs a foot
massage?
RITA
Within reason. Would you like to
have dinner with Larry and ne?
PHIL
No thanks, I've seen Larry eat.
You want to ditch Larry and let me
take you someplace nice?
RITA
You mean like a date?
rare
Yeah.
(CONTINUED)
3/13/92
10
Revises Fink 3/13/32
CONTINUED:
RITA
oh, no.
PHIL,
okay. I get it. You're a little
Sntinigaced by ne, you're all
excited about che shoot tomorrow.
18% jase gee sone sleep. SIT sce
you in the morning.
RITA
Don't be late.
Phil starts to make another call on the carphone as she crosses
back to help Larry.
LARRY
Did he actually call himself "che
talent.”
Shé nods and they both giggle.
EXT. A FOREST CLEARING - EARLY MORNING
The crust of an old snowfall still covers the frozen ground, and
che bare, icy branches of the trees glisten dully in the early
morning Light.
cur To:
HIBERNATING GROUNDEOGS
A family of groundhogs is nestled together in their burrow
Sleeping off the end of a long winter
END CREDITS AND THEME MUSIC
DISSOLVE To:
INT. PHIL*S ROOM - DAW
CLOSE up - CLOCK
A clock-radio changes from 5:59 to 6:00 AM, The radio comes
on, playing the end of the Sonny and Cher hit, "I Got You,
Babe."
(CONTINUED)
10
Revises Fink 3/13/32
CONTINUED:
RITA
oh, no.
PHIL,
okay. I get it. You're a little
Sntinigaced by ne, you're all
excited about che shoot tomorrow.
18% jase gee sone sleep. SIT sce
you in the morning.
RITA
Don't be late.
Phil starts to make another call on the carphone as she crosses
back to help Larry.
LARRY
Did he actually call himself "che
talent.”
Shé nods and they both giggle.
EXT. A FOREST CLEARING - EARLY MORNING
The crust of an old snowfall still covers the frozen ground, and
che bare, icy branches of the trees glisten dully in the early
morning Light.
cur To:
HIBERNATING GROUNDEOGS
A family of groundhogs is nestled together in their burrow
Sleeping off the end of a long winter
END CREDITS AND THEME MUSIC
DISSOLVE To:
INT. PHIL*S ROOM - DAW
CLOSE up - CLOCK
A clock-radio changes from 5:59 to 6:00 AM, The radio comes
on, playing the end of the Sonny and Cher hit, "I Got You,
Babe."
(CONTINUED)
10
CONTINUE!
SUPER: PEBRUARY 2
Phil sits up in bed and looks around the room. The decor is
typical bed and breakfast, flocked wallpaper, framed prints
an odd assortment of mismatched furniture. His sust 25 hanging
Reatiy on the back of the closet door and his suitcase is open
ona stand at the foot of the bed, still neatly packed.
A radio DEEJAY and his SIDEKICK come on with hyped-up, driver:
Snappy talk." Phil stares at the radio and Listena to then.
DEEJAY
Okay, campers, rise and shine, and
don't forget your booties because
IT" COCOLD out there today!
Phil grimaces and swings out of bed.
SIDEKICK
s cold out there everyday. what
15 this-- Miami Beach?
The deejay laughs. Phil shakes his head at the cheesy repartee
as he crosses to the Sink and starts brushing his teeth.
DEEJAY
Not hardly. And you can expect
hazardous travel later today with
that, you know, blizzard thing--
SIDEKICK
That ‘blizzard thing?"
Phil splashes some water on his face and prepares to shave.
SIDEKICK (CONT.}
oh, here's the report: the National
heather Service 15 calling for a big
blizzard thing.
DEEJAY
Yes they are, but there's another
reason today is especially exciting:
SIDEKICK
Especially cold~
Den "
Especially cold, okay, but the big
question on everybody's Lips
SIDEFICR
(CONTINUED)
SUPER: PEBRUARY 2
Phil sits up in bed and looks around the room. The decor is
typical bed and breakfast, flocked wallpaper, framed prints
an odd assortment of mismatched furniture. His sust 25 hanging
Reatiy on the back of the closet door and his suitcase is open
ona stand at the foot of the bed, still neatly packed.
A radio DEEJAY and his SIDEKICK come on with hyped-up, driver:
Snappy talk." Phil stares at the radio and Listena to then.
DEEJAY
Okay, campers, rise and shine, and
don't forget your booties because
IT" COCOLD out there today!
Phil grimaces and swings out of bed.
SIDEKICK
s cold out there everyday. what
15 this-- Miami Beach?
The deejay laughs. Phil shakes his head at the cheesy repartee
as he crosses to the Sink and starts brushing his teeth.
DEEJAY
Not hardly. And you can expect
hazardous travel later today with
that, you know, blizzard thing--
SIDEKICK
That ‘blizzard thing?"
Phil splashes some water on his face and prepares to shave.
SIDEKICK (CONT.}
oh, here's the report: the National
heather Service 15 calling for a big
blizzard thing.
DEEJAY
Yes they are, but there's another
reason today is especially exciting:
SIDEKICK
Especially cold~
Den "
Especially cold, okay, but the big
question on everybody's Lips
SIDEFICR
(CONTINUED)
10
a
12
CONTINUED:
DEEJAY
on their chapped lips, right-- Do
you thank Phil's going to come out
and see his shadow?
SIDEKICK
Punxsucawey Phil
Phil looks up at himself in the mirror, admiring his own face.
DEEJAY
5 right, woodchuck chuckers!
BOTH DEEJAYS
Groundhog Day!
SOUND EFFECT of GRUNTING GROUNDHOGS.
1 crosses to the window and looks out.
HIS POV u
The street is full of people heading toward the center of tom.
cur ro:
INT. CORRIDOR - EARLY MORNING 12
Phil heads for the breakfast room of the inn, now well-dressed
in a suit and tie, a nice overcoat slung over his arm. A CHUBBY
MN passes:
CHUBBY MAN
Morning.
PHIL
Morning.
CHUBBY MAN
‘Think ie*1i be an early Spring?
PHIL
I don't know about the groundhog,
but I'm predicting March 21st.
cur 710:
a
12
CONTINUED:
DEEJAY
on their chapped lips, right-- Do
you thank Phil's going to come out
and see his shadow?
SIDEKICK
Punxsucawey Phil
Phil looks up at himself in the mirror, admiring his own face.
DEEJAY
5 right, woodchuck chuckers!
BOTH DEEJAYS
Groundhog Day!
SOUND EFFECT of GRUNTING GROUNDHOGS.
1 crosses to the window and looks out.
HIS POV u
The street is full of people heading toward the center of tom.
cur ro:
INT. CORRIDOR - EARLY MORNING 12
Phil heads for the breakfast room of the inn, now well-dressed
in a suit and tie, a nice overcoat slung over his arm. A CHUBBY
MN passes:
CHUBBY MAN
Morning.
PHIL
Morning.
CHUBBY MAN
‘Think ie*1i be an early Spring?
PHIL
I don't know about the groundhog,
but I'm predicting March 21st.
cur 710:
INT. BREAKFAST ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Phil enters the old litrary of the house now set up with a
breakfast buffer. An old spinet piano stands in the corner.
One wall is lined with bookcases filled wath books. A handéul
of guests are seated around the room, eating.
‘The matron of the house, MES. LANCASTER, spots Phil as she comes
out of che kitchen with a fresh pot of coffee.
MAS. LANCASTER
Did you sleep well, Mr. Connors?
PRL,
(with mock civility)
I slept alone, Mrs. Lancaster.
MAS. LANCASTER
Oh; ¿Tom sorry. Would you Like sone
HE
1 don't suppase it'd be possible to
get an espresso or a cappucıno
arouné here.
PH
(mutters)
;-how to spell "espresso" or
iSappueino.” Forget it. Thisll be
sine.
HRS. LANCASTER
das she house),
Hope you ensey the festivities
Therets calk of a blszzara.
PRIL
No. The blizzard's landing due east
of here, missing us completely.
(gesturing as if on TV)
This low pressure system is coming
down from the North, sucking all
this moisture up from che Gulf,
freezing it, pushing the disturbance
easterly, afd paralyzing Alegona.
That leaves Funxsucaumey cold and
‚A today in che low
3 to che low 20's.
Phil enters the old litrary of the house now set up with a
breakfast buffer. An old spinet piano stands in the corner.
One wall is lined with bookcases filled wath books. A handéul
of guests are seated around the room, eating.
‘The matron of the house, MES. LANCASTER, spots Phil as she comes
out of che kitchen with a fresh pot of coffee.
MAS. LANCASTER
Did you sleep well, Mr. Connors?
PRL,
(with mock civility)
I slept alone, Mrs. Lancaster.
MAS. LANCASTER
Oh; ¿Tom sorry. Would you Like sone
HE
1 don't suppase it'd be possible to
get an espresso or a cappucıno
arouné here.
PH
(mutters)
;-how to spell "espresso" or
iSappueino.” Forget it. Thisll be
sine.
HRS. LANCASTER
das she house),
Hope you ensey the festivities
Therets calk of a blszzara.
PRIL
No. The blizzard's landing due east
of here, missing us completely.
(gesturing as if on TV)
This low pressure system is coming
down from the North, sucking all
this moisture up from che Gulf,
freezing it, pushing the disturbance
easterly, afd paralyzing Alegona.
That leaves Funxsucaumey cold and
‚A today in che low
3 to che low 20's.
CONTINUED: a
PHIL (Cont'd)
Chance of precipitation -- twenty
percent.
(off ner surprised look)
Did you want to talk weather, or did
you Just want to ehitchac?
MRS. LANCASTER
(at at loss)
Weil, 7:
He heads for the door.
MRS. LANCAS
gh. will you be checking out today,
Me! Connors?
PHIL
Chance of departure-- one hundred
percent
Phil exits.
cur 70:
EXT. CHERRY STREET INN - MOMENTS LATER u
pring at the steaming coffee, Phil manages to put on his coat
ang gloves as he descends the front steps of the rambling
Victórsen house and joins the flow of pedestrian traffic on the
EXT. TCHN SQUARE - PUNXSUTANNEY - CONTINUOUS at
There are a lot of people on the street for this hour. Traffic
is'so heavy in fact, che pedestrians are moving faster than the
care, ‘Everyone seems to be going in the Same direction, making
the annual trek to see the groundhog.
An extremely red-faced and weathered old bum, OLD JENSEN, is
Sitting on the sidewalk leaning against a storefront, Someone
presses a coin into his hand. Phil meets Old Jensen's tired
Gaze. He self-consciously swats his supposedly empty pockets
And walks off with a shrug.
MAN (0.C.)
Hey, Phil!
A tall, sharp-faced man, NED RYERSON, comes huffing and puffing
Fight Gp co him. ‘There is something about this guy chat makes
us dislike him on sight.
(CONTINUED)
PHIL (Cont'd)
Chance of precipitation -- twenty
percent.
(off ner surprised look)
Did you want to talk weather, or did
you Just want to ehitchac?
MRS. LANCASTER
(at at loss)
Weil, 7:
He heads for the door.
MRS. LANCAS
gh. will you be checking out today,
Me! Connors?
PHIL
Chance of departure-- one hundred
percent
Phil exits.
cur 70:
EXT. CHERRY STREET INN - MOMENTS LATER u
pring at the steaming coffee, Phil manages to put on his coat
ang gloves as he descends the front steps of the rambling
Victórsen house and joins the flow of pedestrian traffic on the
EXT. TCHN SQUARE - PUNXSUTANNEY - CONTINUOUS at
There are a lot of people on the street for this hour. Traffic
is'so heavy in fact, che pedestrians are moving faster than the
care, ‘Everyone seems to be going in the Same direction, making
the annual trek to see the groundhog.
An extremely red-faced and weathered old bum, OLD JENSEN, is
Sitting on the sidewalk leaning against a storefront, Someone
presses a coin into his hand. Phil meets Old Jensen's tired
Gaze. He self-consciously swats his supposedly empty pockets
And walks off with a shrug.
MAN (0.C.)
Hey, Phil!
A tall, sharp-faced man, NED RYERSON, comes huffing and puffing
Fight Gp co him. ‘There is something about this guy chat makes
us dislike him on sight.
(CONTINUED)
a
NED
Phil! Phil Connors! I thought that
was you!
Phil assunes he's a fan.
PHIL
Good to see you. Thanks for
watching:
NED
My oh my! Phil Connors, Don't say
E remember ne, ‘cause 1 sure
re remenber you. Well?
Phil stares, trying to remember.
or,
(prompt ing)
Ned Ryerson? Needlenose Ned? Ned
the Head. Cone on, buddy. Case
Western High?
PHIL
Ned?
NED
see you clicking through that
gain Of yours. Click-click, €!
click. Bing! “Ned Ryerson.
Fresident, Loyal Order of Rowdy Band
jenbers? Bing: Ned Ryerson, got
the shingles real bad senior year,
almost didn't graduate. Bing again!
Ned Ryerson, went out with your
sister Mary Pat a couple of tines--
"til you told me not to anymore,
well?
ick-
PHIL
(resigned)
Ned Ryerson
NED
Bing!
PHIL
So what're you doing with yourself,
Ned?
NED
. I sell insurance.
(CONTINUED)
NED
Phil! Phil Connors! I thought that
was you!
Phil assunes he's a fan.
PHIL
Good to see you. Thanks for
watching:
NED
My oh my! Phil Connors, Don't say
E remember ne, ‘cause 1 sure
re remenber you. Well?
Phil stares, trying to remember.
or,
(prompt ing)
Ned Ryerson? Needlenose Ned? Ned
the Head. Cone on, buddy. Case
Western High?
PHIL
Ned?
NED
see you clicking through that
gain Of yours. Click-click, €!
click. Bing! “Ned Ryerson.
Fresident, Loyal Order of Rowdy Band
jenbers? Bing: Ned Ryerson, got
the shingles real bad senior year,
almost didn't graduate. Bing again!
Ned Ryerson, went out with your
sister Mary Pat a couple of tines--
"til you told me not to anymore,
well?
ick-
PHIL
(resigned)
Ned Ryerson
NED
Bing!
PHIL
So what're you doing with yourself,
Ned?
NED
. I sell insurance.
(CONTINUED)
15
CONTINUED:
PRIL
(sorry he asked)
No kidding.
NED
Do you have life insurance, Phil?
‘Cause if you do, I bet you could
use more-- who cóuldn't?=- but I got
a feeling you don't have any. Am 2
Fight?
PHIL
You know, Ned, I'd love to talk to
you but 1 really have to-~
Phil starts to walk away, but Ned won't take the hint.
NED
‘That's okay. I'll walk with you.
when I see an opportunity, 1 charge
Ned the Byii,
live and die by actuarial tables,
but 1 think it's all just a crap,
shoot anyhoo. Ever hear of single
premium life? That could be the
Ticket for you, buddy. God, it's
good to see you! Hey, what‘re you
doing for dinner?
PHIL
Dinner? Sorry. I'm on a nine day
fast and if I break it now I lose my
room at che monastery.
As they continue walking, Phil steps off the curb into what
Tooks like à shallow puddle and ends up ankle deep in wet slush.
Ned laughs like a donkey.
NED
Hey, look out for that first
TÉTS a doozy!
ep!
looks at him with murderous contempt.
cur 70:
EXT. GOBBLER'S KNOB - DAWN 16
à big crowd is standing in the park on the main square. They
Ese da fheres around a farge manvnade mound enclosed by a rast
2. Outside the central arca
ore people crowded around them.
yerai fires are going, with
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED:
PRIL
(sorry he asked)
No kidding.
NED
Do you have life insurance, Phil?
‘Cause if you do, I bet you could
use more-- who cóuldn't?=- but I got
a feeling you don't have any. Am 2
Fight?
PHIL
You know, Ned, I'd love to talk to
you but 1 really have to-~
Phil starts to walk away, but Ned won't take the hint.
NED
‘That's okay. I'll walk with you.
when I see an opportunity, 1 charge
Ned the Byii,
live and die by actuarial tables,
but 1 think it's all just a crap,
shoot anyhoo. Ever hear of single
premium life? That could be the
Ticket for you, buddy. God, it's
good to see you! Hey, what‘re you
doing for dinner?
PHIL
Dinner? Sorry. I'm on a nine day
fast and if I break it now I lose my
room at che monastery.
As they continue walking, Phil steps off the curb into what
Tooks like à shallow puddle and ends up ankle deep in wet slush.
Ned laughs like a donkey.
NED
Hey, look out for that first
TÉTS a doozy!
ep!
looks at him with murderous contempt.
cur 70:
EXT. GOBBLER'S KNOB - DAWN 16
à big crowd is standing in the park on the main square. They
Ese da fheres around a farge manvnade mound enclosed by a rast
2. Outside the central arca
ore people crowded around them.
yerai fires are going, with
(CONTINUED)
Revised Yellow 3/17/82
CONTINUED:
For a cold gray dawn, there is the atmosphere of a festival
here. Music is blaring from loudspeakers. Ihe crowd is sing:
along.
The area directly in front of the mound is reserved for town
officials, dignitaries, and neys reporters and cameras. Rita
stands there, a pocket of genuine beauty in this sea of
potbellied old union guys and blow-dried reporters.
The crowd has begun chanting:
CROWD
Phil! phil! Phil! Phil!
Stomping her feet against the cold, Rita looks at her watch and
glances around. Larry, the cameraman, is shooting the crowd,
RITA
How could he be late? It’s just
so-- inconsiderate.
LARRY
Prima donnas. What happens to
some people? They're born nice.
They grow up nice, You put "em on
TV Unde= ban! Prima Sonnas.
Rita spots Phil heading into the crowd.
RITA
Here he comes. Phil! Hey, Phil.
Over here!
Phil joins them in the press area, Rita pulls him to his mark
near the rail fence.
RITA
Where've you been? You're missing
all the fun!
PHIL
It was horrible. A giant leech
gor me.
Rita straightens his tie.
RITA
When, we got here at five there
was already a crowd. Some of them
have been partying all night.
LARRY
okay.
She hands him a microphone
CONTINUED:
For a cold gray dawn, there is the atmosphere of a festival
here. Music is blaring from loudspeakers. Ihe crowd is sing:
along.
The area directly in front of the mound is reserved for town
officials, dignitaries, and neys reporters and cameras. Rita
stands there, a pocket of genuine beauty in this sea of
potbellied old union guys and blow-dried reporters.
The crowd has begun chanting:
CROWD
Phil! phil! Phil! Phil!
Stomping her feet against the cold, Rita looks at her watch and
glances around. Larry, the cameraman, is shooting the crowd,
RITA
How could he be late? It’s just
so-- inconsiderate.
LARRY
Prima donnas. What happens to
some people? They're born nice.
They grow up nice, You put "em on
TV Unde= ban! Prima Sonnas.
Rita spots Phil heading into the crowd.
RITA
Here he comes. Phil! Hey, Phil.
Over here!
Phil joins them in the press area, Rita pulls him to his mark
near the rail fence.
RITA
Where've you been? You're missing
all the fun!
PHIL
It was horrible. A giant leech
gor me.
Rita straightens his tie.
RITA
When, we got here at five there
was already a crowd. Some of them
have been partying all night.
LARRY
okay.
She hands him a microphone
16
a
CONTINUE!
RITA
These people are great.
songs "til they
Ehey go warn up
Revised Pink 3/13/92
They sing
jet 200 cold, then
the fires,
then
they Come back and sing some more.
PHIL
Yes.
He primps in the camera lens.
PHIL
‘They're hicks, Rita.
So, did you sleep okay without me?
You tossed and turned, didn't you?
RITA,
You're incredible.
PELL
Who cold you?
who told you.
to know.
No,
I want to know
No‘ one’s supposed
The Groundhog Club Officials in top hats and overcoats parade
onto the stage at the front of the mound. Rita snaps to
atcention.
RITA
Groundhog time. Larry?
LARRY
(behing the camera)
Getting it.
PHIL
On me. Let's go, I'm ready.
Larry looks at Rita. She shrugs. Larry mutters something and
turns the camera toward Phil.
Phil straightens up,
mode.
PHIL
(to camera)
countdown 1, 2, 3
(pauses
Once a year,
nation turn here,
hamlet in Pennsylvania,
a master at work.
more)
takes a breath and snaps into announce
the eyes of the
Vo this tiny
to watch
‘The master?
(CONTINUED)
a
CONTINUE!
RITA
These people are great.
songs "til they
Ehey go warn up
Revised Pink 3/13/92
They sing
jet 200 cold, then
the fires,
then
they Come back and sing some more.
PHIL
Yes.
He primps in the camera lens.
PHIL
‘They're hicks, Rita.
So, did you sleep okay without me?
You tossed and turned, didn't you?
RITA,
You're incredible.
PELL
Who cold you?
who told you.
to know.
No,
I want to know
No‘ one’s supposed
The Groundhog Club Officials in top hats and overcoats parade
onto the stage at the front of the mound. Rita snaps to
atcention.
RITA
Groundhog time. Larry?
LARRY
(behing the camera)
Getting it.
PHIL
On me. Let's go, I'm ready.
Larry looks at Rita. She shrugs. Larry mutters something and
turns the camera toward Phil.
Phil straightens up,
mode.
PHIL
(to camera)
countdown 1, 2, 3
(pauses
Once a year,
nation turn here,
hamlet in Pennsylvania,
a master at work.
more)
takes a breath and snaps into announce
the eyes of the
Vo this tiny
to watch
‘The master?
(CONTINUED)
16
Revised Pink 3/13/92
CONTINUED:
PHIL (Cont '€)
Punxeytawmey Phil, the world's
most famous weatherman, he
Groundhog, who, as Legend has it,
San predice the coming of an early
Spring. I know what you're
thinklag--does Phil feel Lucky
today? :
smooth, even charismatic. Rita
on camera, Phil is professional
‚ive-- 86 far, 50 good.
turns to Larry. This is impres
On stage is a hollow tree stump with a little door in the front.
BUSTER GREEY, the Groundhog Club President, knocks on the little
PHIL
(to Rita)
It's the same every year. They
knock on the stump, yank out the
hog, talk to it
An Official pulls the groundhog from the hollow tree stump. The
Rita laughs, enjoying this immensely.
RITA
This is a riot!
On stage, Buster Green pretends to talk to the groundhog. At
the end of their mock conversation, he unrolls a scroll and
reads from it.
BUSTER
This February Second, at seven
twenty and thirty seconds,
Punxsutawney Phil, the Seór of
Seers, Prognosticator of
Prognosticators==
Phil is bored, looks at his watch.
BUSTER (CONT. )
--energed reluctantly but alertiy
in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, to .
wish the faithful followers a
happy Groundhog Day. Phil Looked
skyward to the east, then behing
to the ground, and Stated clearly
in greundhogase, "I definitely see
a shadow." Sorry folks, there you .
have it, six more weeks of winter. :
(CONTINUED)
Revised Pink 3/13/92
CONTINUED:
PHIL (Cont '€)
Punxeytawmey Phil, the world's
most famous weatherman, he
Groundhog, who, as Legend has it,
San predice the coming of an early
Spring. I know what you're
thinklag--does Phil feel Lucky
today? :
smooth, even charismatic. Rita
on camera, Phil is professional
‚ive-- 86 far, 50 good.
turns to Larry. This is impres
On stage is a hollow tree stump with a little door in the front.
BUSTER GREEY, the Groundhog Club President, knocks on the little
PHIL
(to Rita)
It's the same every year. They
knock on the stump, yank out the
hog, talk to it
An Official pulls the groundhog from the hollow tree stump. The
Rita laughs, enjoying this immensely.
RITA
This is a riot!
On stage, Buster Green pretends to talk to the groundhog. At
the end of their mock conversation, he unrolls a scroll and
reads from it.
BUSTER
This February Second, at seven
twenty and thirty seconds,
Punxsutawney Phil, the Seór of
Seers, Prognosticator of
Prognosticators==
Phil is bored, looks at his watch.
BUSTER (CONT. )
--energed reluctantly but alertiy
in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, to .
wish the faithful followers a
happy Groundhog Day. Phil Looked
skyward to the east, then behing
to the ground, and Stated clearly
in greundhogase, "I definitely see
a shadow." Sorry folks, there you .
have it, six more weeks of winter. :
(CONTINUED)
16
Revised Pink 3/13/92
16
CONTINUED:
‘The good-natured crowd goes "Au." Ôther men on the
podium hold up hand-lettered:signs reading "Blizzard", *Sleet.
Larry pans the camera back to Phil.
PHIL
(to camera)
A disappointed but cheerful crowd.
jell, you heard it. Six more
weeks Of winter.
Suddenly, the grounähog wriggles out of the Official's hands and
escapes from him. He runs off the stage and through the crowd.
We can trace his path as the people part to avoid him.
RITA
(to Larry)
Get this--this. Over there, over
there
Larry swings the camera off Phil toward the crowd, trying to
follow the groundhos =
Phil cante believe he is being upstaged like this.
RITA
You're missing the story, Phil.
It's over there.
Finally, someone in che crowd reaches down and picks up the
Groundhog: The Official comes dom to retrieve him.
Larıy pans back to Phil, who pretends to have been amused by all
E
(pause)
You know, this is one time where
television really fails to capture
the true excitement of watching a
large squirrel predict the
weather, and 1 for one am grateful
T'could’be here today. From
Punxsutawney, this is Phil
Connors.
Phil makes a cut sign with his hand and hands the mike to Rita.
(CONTINUED)
Revised Pink 3/13/92
16
CONTINUED:
‘The good-natured crowd goes "Au." Ôther men on the
podium hold up hand-lettered:signs reading "Blizzard", *Sleet.
Larry pans the camera back to Phil.
PHIL
(to camera)
A disappointed but cheerful crowd.
jell, you heard it. Six more
weeks Of winter.
Suddenly, the grounähog wriggles out of the Official's hands and
escapes from him. He runs off the stage and through the crowd.
We can trace his path as the people part to avoid him.
RITA
(to Larry)
Get this--this. Over there, over
there
Larry swings the camera off Phil toward the crowd, trying to
follow the groundhos =
Phil cante believe he is being upstaged like this.
RITA
You're missing the story, Phil.
It's over there.
Finally, someone in che crowd reaches down and picks up the
Groundhog: The Official comes dom to retrieve him.
Larıy pans back to Phil, who pretends to have been amused by all
E
(pause)
You know, this is one time where
television really fails to capture
the true excitement of watching a
large squirrel predict the
weather, and 1 for one am grateful
T'could’be here today. From
Punxsutawney, this is Phil
Connors.
Phil makes a cut sign with his hand and hands the mike to Rita.
(CONTINUED)
Revised Pink 3/13/92
-162-
26 CONTINUED: 1
RITA E
{to Phil} .
Want to do it again without the
sarcasm?
PHIL
I'm outta here.
LARRY
(muceers)
Prima donne
cur To:
17 INT. DINER - LATER
Phil is sitting at a table having a cup of coffee in a busy,
loud and lively cafe.
vv
-162-
26 CONTINUED: 1
RITA E
{to Phil} .
Want to do it again without the
sarcasm?
PHIL
I'm outta here.
LARRY
(muceers)
Prima donne
cur To:
17 INT. DINER - LATER
Phil is sitting at a table having a cup of coffee in a busy,
loud and lively cafe.
vv
CONTINUED:
In the background, an OLD LADY is playing ‘Seventy-six
Trombones* on a Hammond Organ.
it enters from outside and rejoins Phil at their table. Phil
ig in the middie of a story, playing to an audience of Busti:
waitresses, short order cooks, and half-interested patrons.
PHIL
At that time, the National Weather
Service predicted Hurricane
Guenivere would come ashore in
Georgia. T seid -- ‘Uh-uh. You're
ot watching the Gulf Stream, boys.
She's gonna hit-- New York city.*
PATRONS
Onhhn.
Fhil sits back, satisfied. Patrons nod politely.
FHIL
Mayor of, New York woulde't take my
call. City got creamed.
RITA
Larry's almost got the van packed
EN
An old waitress, DORIS, comes over with some coffee.
DORIS
More coffee, hon?
RITA
Just the check, please. These
Sticky buns are Just heaven.
Dors
(pleasea)
en't they?
PHIL
(garcast:
Do we have to leave so soon?
ports
What's the rush? We just got handed
six more weeks of winter.
PHIL
That's just a rumor. The groundhog
heard it fron the Easter bunny-
Phil gets his coat from the coat-tree.
(CONTINUED)
In the background, an OLD LADY is playing ‘Seventy-six
Trombones* on a Hammond Organ.
it enters from outside and rejoins Phil at their table. Phil
ig in the middie of a story, playing to an audience of Busti:
waitresses, short order cooks, and half-interested patrons.
PHIL
At that time, the National Weather
Service predicted Hurricane
Guenivere would come ashore in
Georgia. T seid -- ‘Uh-uh. You're
ot watching the Gulf Stream, boys.
She's gonna hit-- New York city.*
PATRONS
Onhhn.
Fhil sits back, satisfied. Patrons nod politely.
FHIL
Mayor of, New York woulde't take my
call. City got creamed.
RITA
Larry's almost got the van packed
EN
An old waitress, DORIS, comes over with some coffee.
DORIS
More coffee, hon?
RITA
Just the check, please. These
Sticky buns are Just heaven.
Dors
(pleasea)
en't they?
PHIL
(garcast:
Do we have to leave so soon?
ports
What's the rush? We just got handed
six more weeks of winter.
PHIL
That's just a rumor. The groundhog
heard it fron the Easter bunny-
Phil gets his coat from the coat-tree.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED:
RITA
= don't think Phil's a believer.
DORIS
Phil?
An old GEEZER sitting at the count
sus
Like the groundhog.
+ behind then responds.
VARIOUS VOICES
Hey, Phil! Shadow scare ya this
morning? (another) Have a good nap?
(another) Hollow log too small for
you?
Phil glowers at them, already sick of hearing this.
Larry pokes his head in the doorway and spots Rita.
LARRY
You ready?” We better get going if
welze going to stay ahead of the
PHIL
That storm is going to miss us
completely, you know.
Phil leaves a ten dollar bill on the table as he leaves. as
they approach the door, Doris hands Rita a bag of sticky buns.
DORIS
Here you go, darlin‘.
RITA
Oh, my. Look, Phil! sticky Buns.
1s in mock excitement.
PHIL
Y couldn't be happier.
DORIS
See you next year, sane time,
RITA
Thank you so much.
(o Phi}
he sweet?
Isn't
Phil and Rin
exit.
(CONTINUED)
RITA
= don't think Phil's a believer.
DORIS
Phil?
An old GEEZER sitting at the count
sus
Like the groundhog.
+ behind then responds.
VARIOUS VOICES
Hey, Phil! Shadow scare ya this
morning? (another) Have a good nap?
(another) Hollow log too small for
you?
Phil glowers at them, already sick of hearing this.
Larry pokes his head in the doorway and spots Rita.
LARRY
You ready?” We better get going if
welze going to stay ahead of the
PHIL
That storm is going to miss us
completely, you know.
Phil leaves a ten dollar bill on the table as he leaves. as
they approach the door, Doris hands Rita a bag of sticky buns.
DORIS
Here you go, darlin‘.
RITA
Oh, my. Look, Phil! sticky Buns.
1s in mock excitement.
PHIL
Y couldn't be happier.
DORIS
See you next year, sane time,
RITA
Thank you so much.
(o Phi}
he sweet?
Isn't
Phil and Rin
exit.
(CONTINUED)
a7
19
sed Pink 3/25/92
-19-
CONTINUED:
Another waitress, ALICE, is already bussing Phil and Rite's
table. She notices the ten dollars and hands it over to Doris.
ALICE
Ten dollars for coffee and a
sticky bun?
DORIS
And for listening to him.
EXT. HIGHWAY - DAY
‘The van is driving down che highway. Light snow is just
starting to fall. As they cross over a ridge, the biggest,
Gerkest, most oninous storm imaginable is gathering in Che sky
Just beyond.
INT. THE VAN - CONTINUOUS
‘The snow is getting heavier. Larry switches on the windshield
wipers.” Finally, Rita breaks the silence.
PHIL
(on the phone)
Hello? Mello? Hello? Goodbye.
RITA
] have to say, that was pretty
lousy this moming.
The rat
RITA
I'm not talking about the
Groundhog. He was fine. I'm
talking about you. You call
yourself a professional?
PHIL
I'm a pro. That was right on the
honey.
RITA
Okay, forget professional. ‘How
about human? It's Just a funny
little fork pageant. You actes,
like it’s a personal insult. Who
do you think you are?
(CONTINUED)
19
sed Pink 3/25/92
-19-
CONTINUED:
Another waitress, ALICE, is already bussing Phil and Rite's
table. She notices the ten dollars and hands it over to Doris.
ALICE
Ten dollars for coffee and a
sticky bun?
DORIS
And for listening to him.
EXT. HIGHWAY - DAY
‘The van is driving down che highway. Light snow is just
starting to fall. As they cross over a ridge, the biggest,
Gerkest, most oninous storm imaginable is gathering in Che sky
Just beyond.
INT. THE VAN - CONTINUOUS
‘The snow is getting heavier. Larry switches on the windshield
wipers.” Finally, Rita breaks the silence.
PHIL
(on the phone)
Hello? Mello? Hello? Goodbye.
RITA
] have to say, that was pretty
lousy this moming.
The rat
RITA
I'm not talking about the
Groundhog. He was fine. I'm
talking about you. You call
yourself a professional?
PHIL
I'm a pro. That was right on the
honey.
RITA
Okay, forget professional. ‘How
about human? It's Just a funny
little fork pageant. You actes,
like it’s a personal insult. Who
do you think you are?
(CONTINUED)
Revised Pink 3/13/92
-20-
19 CONTINUED:
PHIL .
Oh my God, you take this stuff
seriously.
RITA
Yes, I do. There are no little
Stories, Phil. only little
Feportets with big Sgos_ wo, chink
o,
they're too good for the Job.
PHIL
Oh, is that so?
RITA
Yes, that is so.
LARRY
(wipes window)
Oh boy, take a look at this.
He starts slowing down as the snowfall gets heavier.
PRIL
What's going on?
LARRY
Z don't know, perhaps it's that
blizzard we're not going to get.
PHIL
wnat?
The traffic comes to a complete stop. Phil reaches out and
begins honking Larry's horn.
PHIL
(honking)
This isn't possible.
LARRY
(pushing his hand away)
Hey! “No one honk’s that horn but
me, pal.
Larry honks it once to assert his prerogative.
Phil rolls down the window and looks up ahead. The highway is
a parking lot.
PHIL
No. Not
-20-
19 CONTINUED:
PHIL .
Oh my God, you take this stuff
seriously.
RITA
Yes, I do. There are no little
Stories, Phil. only little
Feportets with big Sgos_ wo, chink
o,
they're too good for the Job.
PHIL
Oh, is that so?
RITA
Yes, that is so.
LARRY
(wipes window)
Oh boy, take a look at this.
He starts slowing down as the snowfall gets heavier.
PRIL
What's going on?
LARRY
Z don't know, perhaps it's that
blizzard we're not going to get.
PHIL
wnat?
The traffic comes to a complete stop. Phil reaches out and
begins honking Larry's horn.
PHIL
(honking)
This isn't possible.
LARRY
(pushing his hand away)
Hey! “No one honk’s that horn but
me, pal.
Larry honks it once to assert his prerogative.
Phil rolls down the window and looks up ahead. The highway is
a parking lot.
PHIL
No. Not
Revised Pink 3/13/82
-202-
EXT. THE CAR - CONTINUOUS
Phil jumps out and begins to walk down the highway, past the
parked cars, shivering. As Phil passes the van, Larry honks his
horn. Phil jumps and Larry gives him a littie wave. Some cars
ave pulling away from the lineup and turning beck.
-202-
EXT. THE CAR - CONTINUOUS
Phil jumps out and begins to walk down the highway, past the
parked cars, shivering. As Phil passes the van, Larry honks his
horn. Phil jumps and Larry gives him a littie wave. Some cars
ave pulling away from the lineup and turning beck.
Revised Yellow 3/17/92
-21-
CONTINUED
‘The snowfall is getting heavier and the wind is picking up. The
snow comes down unnaturally hard and fast. He walxs on,
slipping and sliding in his expensive loafers until he cones to
A police roadblock manned by TWO HIGHWAY PATROLMEN.
PRIL
What's going on, Commander?
PATROLMAN
Nothin's goin’ on. We're closin*
the road.” Big accident up ahead.
Blizzard movin in.
PHIL
What blizzard? A couple of
flakes!
PATROLMAN
Don't you listen to the weather?
We gor a major storm here.
PHIL
No, no. I make the weather.
(gesturing as if ac the
Weather map)
All that moisture is going to push
east of us and hit Altoona.
PRIROLMAN
Pal, you got that moisture on your
head.
Phil stomps off, but comes right back.
PRIL
Commander:
PATROLMAN,
Mister, you can go back to
Punxsutawney, or you can go on
ahead and freeze to death. Your
(after a beat)
Well? What's it gonna be?
PHIL
Im thinking.
cor 10:
-21-
CONTINUED
‘The snowfall is getting heavier and the wind is picking up. The
snow comes down unnaturally hard and fast. He walxs on,
slipping and sliding in his expensive loafers until he cones to
A police roadblock manned by TWO HIGHWAY PATROLMEN.
PRIL
What's going on, Commander?
PATROLMAN
Nothin's goin’ on. We're closin*
the road.” Big accident up ahead.
Blizzard movin in.
PHIL
What blizzard? A couple of
flakes!
PATROLMAN
Don't you listen to the weather?
We gor a major storm here.
PHIL
No, no. I make the weather.
(gesturing as if ac the
Weather map)
All that moisture is going to push
east of us and hit Altoona.
PRIROLMAN
Pal, you got that moisture on your
head.
Phil stomps off, but comes right back.
PRIL
Commander:
PATROLMAN,
Mister, you can go back to
Punxsutawney, or you can go on
ahead and freeze to death. Your
(after a beat)
Well? What's it gonna be?
PHIL
Im thinking.
cor 10:
21
22
Revised Yellow 3/17
-22-
INT. GAS STATION - LATER
Phil is on a pay Phone, Snow is falling heavily outside. Rite
and Larry are waiting in the van. A GAS STATION ATTENDANT is
shovelling around the pumps.
PHIL
{on phone)
all the long distance lines are
Gown? What about the satellite
is it snowing in space?...Isa't
there some special line you keep
cpen for emergencies or for
celebrities”... Both! I'ma
celebrity in an emergency
you patch me through on tl
The door opens and Phil is blasted with frigid Arctic wind and
plowing snow. The GAS STATION ATTENDANT enters the tiny office
and in trying to squeeze past Phil accidentally bangs him on the
fad with his snow shovel
cur 70:
EXT. TOWN SQUARE - DAY
Rita and Larry are talking near a booth selling hot cider. The
sound of chainsaws is loud in the background. Rita takes two
cups of cider and walks to where Phil is standing.
Phil is staring blankly. Surrounding him are twenty-five ice
sculptures, many of groundhogs.
PHIL
My idea of hell. By Phil Connor:
The artists are working their sculptures with chain-saws.
Banners are up. It is a local competition. Many townspeople
and tourists cheer them on.
RITA
Some of these are great.
She hands him a cup and admires an elaborately carved ice angel.
PHIL
This tom is a time capsule
somebody buried a hundred years
ago and no one's dug it up yet.
coer up. FR. me dv se
5 hours ago this was just a block
(CONTINUED)
22
22
Revised Yellow 3/17
-22-
INT. GAS STATION - LATER
Phil is on a pay Phone, Snow is falling heavily outside. Rite
and Larry are waiting in the van. A GAS STATION ATTENDANT is
shovelling around the pumps.
PHIL
{on phone)
all the long distance lines are
Gown? What about the satellite
is it snowing in space?...Isa't
there some special line you keep
cpen for emergencies or for
celebrities”... Both! I'ma
celebrity in an emergency
you patch me through on tl
The door opens and Phil is blasted with frigid Arctic wind and
plowing snow. The GAS STATION ATTENDANT enters the tiny office
and in trying to squeeze past Phil accidentally bangs him on the
fad with his snow shovel
cur 70:
EXT. TOWN SQUARE - DAY
Rita and Larry are talking near a booth selling hot cider. The
sound of chainsaws is loud in the background. Rita takes two
cups of cider and walks to where Phil is standing.
Phil is staring blankly. Surrounding him are twenty-five ice
sculptures, many of groundhogs.
PHIL
My idea of hell. By Phil Connor:
The artists are working their sculptures with chain-saws.
Banners are up. It is a local competition. Many townspeople
and tourists cheer them on.
RITA
Some of these are great.
She hands him a cup and admires an elaborately carved ice angel.
PHIL
This tom is a time capsule
somebody buried a hundred years
ago and no one's dug it up yet.
coer up. FR. me dv se
5 hours ago this was just a block
(CONTINUED)
22
Revised Yellow 3717-52
-23-
22 CONTINUED: a
PHIL
And a couple of years ago it was
Phil dumps the cider from his cup, goes up to the statue and
‘scoops the ice shavings into his glass.
PHIL
Tell Larry to go get us some .
bourbon. .
LARRY
Hey, I'm not your guy. 1 don’t
have to do that.
the ture to Rita)
Would you like some bourbon Rita?
RITA
‘Thanks, Larry.
23 INP. HOTEL BAR - EVENING
A dance band ie playing somewhere in the hotel, Phil is at the
bar telling a story to an attractive GIRL (NANCY) and anybody
else within earshot. The girl listens politely.
PAIL
Over here I've got the satellite
photos, over here I've got the
temperature grades, and I think
Sn! You know where she's gonna
BARTENDER
New York City.
Phil pauses, bites the intrusion.
PHIL
It's a famous story, yes.
BARTENDER
(to others)
Mayor of New York wouldn't take
his call. City got creamed.
Everyone chuckles at Phil's expense.
(CONTINUED)
-23-
22 CONTINUED: a
PHIL
And a couple of years ago it was
Phil dumps the cider from his cup, goes up to the statue and
‘scoops the ice shavings into his glass.
PHIL
Tell Larry to go get us some .
bourbon. .
LARRY
Hey, I'm not your guy. 1 don’t
have to do that.
the ture to Rita)
Would you like some bourbon Rita?
RITA
‘Thanks, Larry.
23 INP. HOTEL BAR - EVENING
A dance band ie playing somewhere in the hotel, Phil is at the
bar telling a story to an attractive GIRL (NANCY) and anybody
else within earshot. The girl listens politely.
PAIL
Over here I've got the satellite
photos, over here I've got the
temperature grades, and I think
Sn! You know where she's gonna
BARTENDER
New York City.
Phil pauses, bites the intrusion.
PHIL
It's a famous story, yes.
BARTENDER
(to others)
Mayor of New York wouldn't take
his call. City got creamed.
Everyone chuckles at Phil's expense.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED:
PHIL
sme Re ED coro
je science of meteorology is way
over their heads. REN
NANCY.
(nervously)
1 better get going.
PHIL
No, wait, Don’t you want to see
the inside of the van? It's
really cool.
NANCY
1 should get back to-the party.
‘Tonks for the drink, Frank. Good
night.
(CONTINUED)
PHIL
sme Re ED coro
je science of meteorology is way
over their heads. REN
NANCY.
(nervously)
1 better get going.
PHIL
No, wait, Don’t you want to see
the inside of the van? It's
really cool.
NANCY
1 should get back to-the party.
‘Tonks for the drink, Frank. Good
night.
(CONTINUED)
Revised Pink 3/12/92
-24-
23 CONTINUED:
Nancy heads for the lobby.
PHIL
(calling)
rete Phill
BARTENDER
Phil? Like the groundnog.
PATRONS
Have a good nap, Phil? (another)
Let's hear some groundhogese.
(another) Any more predictions?
Rita and Larry enter, dressed for the evening.
o Ra
Phil, aren’t you going to the
Groundhog Dinner?
PHIL
No, thanks. T had groundhog for
lunch. It was good. Tastes like
chicken. You two run along.
RITA
What are you going to do?
PHIL
I think Tell just go back to my
hotel and have a nice hot shower.
cur To:
24 INT. SHOWER 24
Phil takes off his robe and steps into the shower. His eyes
open wide and he SCREAMS.
cur 70;
25 INT. MAIN FLOOR HALLWAY 2
Phil encounters Mrs. Lancaster on her way to her room. .
PHIL
Isn't there any hot water in this
Place?
MAS. LANCASTER
Qh, not today. I'm sorry. Sweet
dreams!
(CONTINUED)
-24-
23 CONTINUED:
Nancy heads for the lobby.
PHIL
(calling)
rete Phill
BARTENDER
Phil? Like the groundnog.
PATRONS
Have a good nap, Phil? (another)
Let's hear some groundhogese.
(another) Any more predictions?
Rita and Larry enter, dressed for the evening.
o Ra
Phil, aren’t you going to the
Groundhog Dinner?
PHIL
No, thanks. T had groundhog for
lunch. It was good. Tastes like
chicken. You two run along.
RITA
What are you going to do?
PHIL
I think Tell just go back to my
hotel and have a nice hot shower.
cur To:
24 INT. SHOWER 24
Phil takes off his robe and steps into the shower. His eyes
open wide and he SCREAMS.
cur 70;
25 INT. MAIN FLOOR HALLWAY 2
Phil encounters Mrs. Lancaster on her way to her room. .
PHIL
Isn't there any hot water in this
Place?
MAS. LANCASTER
Qh, not today. I'm sorry. Sweet
dreams!
(CONTINUED)
26
2
Revised Pink 3/13/92
-25-
CONTINUED:
Phil nods, resigned, as she exits into her room. $
INT. PHIL'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS 2€
Phil enters his room. His open suitcase is on his bed. He
throws it onto the Floor, then tosses his shaving kit onto che
end table. The shaving kit knocks over a vase with flowers,
which falis and breaks:
Phil reacts. Perfect end to a perfect day. He flops down on
the bed.
DISSOLVE To:
EXT. CHERRY STREET - DAWN 27
The first Light of morning colors the sky behind the Cherry
cor to:
INT. PHIL'S ROOM - DAM 2
CLOSE UP - CLOCK
The clock-radio changes from 5:59 to 6:00 AM. The radio comes
on, playing the end of the Sonny and Cher hit, "I Got You,
Babe," Just as it did the day before.
Phil sits up in bed. Nets wearing pajamas, his suit is once
again hanging neatly on the closet door and his suitcase 15 back
en its stand at the foot of the bed, again neatly packed, The
flower vase is again set on the end table, unbroken. Phil takes
no notice.
The song ends and the same radio deejay and his sidekick come oz
with the same manic energy. Phil stares at the radio and
Jistens co them. A look of astonishment Comes over his face as
they banter.
DERSAY a
Okay, campers, rise and shine, and
Son forget your booties because
3t"s COOOLD out there today
(CONTINUED)
2
Revised Pink 3/13/92
-25-
CONTINUED:
Phil nods, resigned, as she exits into her room. $
INT. PHIL'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS 2€
Phil enters his room. His open suitcase is on his bed. He
throws it onto the Floor, then tosses his shaving kit onto che
end table. The shaving kit knocks over a vase with flowers,
which falis and breaks:
Phil reacts. Perfect end to a perfect day. He flops down on
the bed.
DISSOLVE To:
EXT. CHERRY STREET - DAWN 27
The first Light of morning colors the sky behind the Cherry
cor to:
INT. PHIL'S ROOM - DAM 2
CLOSE UP - CLOCK
The clock-radio changes from 5:59 to 6:00 AM. The radio comes
on, playing the end of the Sonny and Cher hit, "I Got You,
Babe," Just as it did the day before.
Phil sits up in bed. Nets wearing pajamas, his suit is once
again hanging neatly on the closet door and his suitcase 15 back
en its stand at the foot of the bed, again neatly packed, The
flower vase is again set on the end table, unbroken. Phil takes
no notice.
The song ends and the same radio deejay and his sidekick come oz
with the same manic energy. Phil stares at the radio and
Jistens co them. A look of astonishment Comes over his face as
they banter.
DERSAY a
Okay, campers, rise and shine, and
Son forget your booties because
3t"s COOOLD out there today
(CONTINUED)
-26-
2e
SIDEKICK
Jia gold out there everyday. what
is this-- Miami Beach?
The deejay laughs. Phil tmock* laughs at exactly the same time
recognizing the repartee from the previous morning.
PHIL
(to himself)
Nice going guys. That's yest
tape.
reyes
Phil crosses to the sink and gets a towel off the rack, only
half-listening to the radio.
DEEJAY
Not hardly, Expect hazardous travel
later today with that, you know,
biizzaré thing--
SIDEKICK
‘That "blizzard thing?"
Phil turns on the water and splashes some on his face as if
trying to wake himself up, vaguely disturbed by the repetition
of the broadcast.
SIDEKICK (CONT. )
oh, here's the report: the Nacional
Weather Service is calling for a big
Biiszaré ching.
DEEJAY
Yes they are, but there's another
reason today is especially exciting--
SIDEKICK
Especially cold:
DEEJAY
Especially cold, okay, but the big
question on everybody's Lips--
Phil supplies the next line in unison with the radio.
SIDERICK AND PHIL
Chapped Lips
DEEJAY
--on their chapped lips, right-- Do
you think Phil's going to come out
End cee hie chadou?
(CONTINUED)
2e
SIDEKICK
Jia gold out there everyday. what
is this-- Miami Beach?
The deejay laughs. Phil tmock* laughs at exactly the same time
recognizing the repartee from the previous morning.
PHIL
(to himself)
Nice going guys. That's yest
tape.
reyes
Phil crosses to the sink and gets a towel off the rack, only
half-listening to the radio.
DEEJAY
Not hardly, Expect hazardous travel
later today with that, you know,
biizzaré thing--
SIDEKICK
‘That "blizzard thing?"
Phil turns on the water and splashes some on his face as if
trying to wake himself up, vaguely disturbed by the repetition
of the broadcast.
SIDEKICK (CONT. )
oh, here's the report: the Nacional
Weather Service is calling for a big
Biiszaré ching.
DEEJAY
Yes they are, but there's another
reason today is especially exciting--
SIDEKICK
Especially cold:
DEEJAY
Especially cold, okay, but the big
question on everybody's Lips--
Phil supplies the next line in unison with the radio.
SIDERICK AND PHIL
Chapped Lips
DEEJAY
--on their chapped lips, right-- Do
you think Phil's going to come out
End cee hie chadou?
(CONTINUED)
28
27
SIDEKICK
Punxsutaumey Phil.
Some vague doubt causes Phil to go to the window.
DEEJAY
‘That's right, woodchuck chuckers!
mos.
BOTH DEEJAYS
Groundhog Day!
SOUND EFFECT of GRUNTINS GROUNDHOGS as Phil pulls back the
curtains and looks out.
HIS FOV
greet is full of people heading toward Gobbler's Knob,
y as they did the day before,
PHIL
(aghast)
What the hell?
cur 10:
INT. CORRIDOR - CHERRY STREET INN - DAWN
Phil rushes out of his room, hastily tying his tie, his suic
Jacket and overcoat over his arm. As he heads fo
Foe, the same Chubby Man passes.
(CHUBBY MAN
Morning.
PELL
Morning.
CHUBBY MAN
‘Think it'li be an early Spring?
PHIL
(stops, irricaced)
Didn't we do this yesterday?
CHUBBY MAN
(intimidated)
I don't know what you mean.
Fril grabs him by che front of his shirt and looks deep into his
(CONTINUED)
the breakfast
27
SIDEKICK
Punxsutaumey Phil.
Some vague doubt causes Phil to go to the window.
DEEJAY
‘That's right, woodchuck chuckers!
mos.
BOTH DEEJAYS
Groundhog Day!
SOUND EFFECT of GRUNTINS GROUNDHOGS as Phil pulls back the
curtains and looks out.
HIS FOV
greet is full of people heading toward Gobbler's Knob,
y as they did the day before,
PHIL
(aghast)
What the hell?
cur 10:
INT. CORRIDOR - CHERRY STREET INN - DAWN
Phil rushes out of his room, hastily tying his tie, his suic
Jacket and overcoat over his arm. As he heads fo
Foe, the same Chubby Man passes.
(CHUBBY MAN
Morning.
PELL
Morning.
CHUBBY MAN
‘Think it'li be an early Spring?
PHIL
(stops, irricaced)
Didn't we do this yesterday?
CHUBBY MAN
(intimidated)
I don't know what you mean.
Fril grabs him by che front of his shirt and looks deep into his
(CONTINUED)
the breakfast
Revised Yellow 3/17
-28-
30 CONTINUED:
PHIL
Don't mess with me, pork chop.
What day is this?
CHUBBY MAN
(terrified)
Groundhog Day!
February second.
Phil can see he's telling the truth and relaxes his grip on che
pose man.
PHIL
Okay. Sorry. Just checking.
Phil walks on, leaving the chubby man baffled and insulted.
31 INT. BREAKFAST ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Phil enters che old library of the house and finds everything
exactly as it was the day before. Mrs. Lancaster spots Phil as
she comes out of the kitchen with the fresh pot of coffee.
MRS. LANCASTER
Did you sleep wall, Mr. Connors?
PHIL,
(completezy confused)
Did 1 sleep well--?
MRS. LANCASTER
Would you like some coffee?
PHIL.
Yes, please. Better make it a
double.
MAS. LANCASTER
(pouring)
Hope you enjoy the festivities.
There’s talk or a bisssard:
PHIL
Do you ever have deja vu, Mrs.
janeaster?
MRS. LANCASTER
1 don*e know, but 1 could check
with the kitchen.
(conrriveny
-28-
30 CONTINUED:
PHIL
Don't mess with me, pork chop.
What day is this?
CHUBBY MAN
(terrified)
Groundhog Day!
February second.
Phil can see he's telling the truth and relaxes his grip on che
pose man.
PHIL
Okay. Sorry. Just checking.
Phil walks on, leaving the chubby man baffled and insulted.
31 INT. BREAKFAST ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Phil enters che old library of the house and finds everything
exactly as it was the day before. Mrs. Lancaster spots Phil as
she comes out of the kitchen with the fresh pot of coffee.
MRS. LANCASTER
Did you sleep wall, Mr. Connors?
PHIL,
(completezy confused)
Did 1 sleep well--?
MRS. LANCASTER
Would you like some coffee?
PHIL.
Yes, please. Better make it a
double.
MAS. LANCASTER
(pouring)
Hope you enjoy the festivities.
There’s talk or a bisssard:
PHIL
Do you ever have deja vu, Mrs.
janeaster?
MRS. LANCASTER
1 don*e know, but 1 could check
with the kitchen.
(conrriveny
5
3
CONTINUE:
PHIL
‘Thank you.
He heads for the door, still in a daze.
MAS, LANCASTER
Oh, will you be checking out today,
Me! Connors?
PHIL
(vaguely)
18 sey there's an eighty percent
He exits.
cur 70:
EXT. CHERRY STREET INN - MOMENTS LATER
Fhil gulps dow the steaming coffee, still trying to wake u
From wnat he assumes is a dream, and descends the Front steps of
the house. He accosts a PASSERBY.
PHIL
Excuse me. Where's everybody going?
PASSERSY
To Gobbler's Knob. It's Groundhog
Bay!
PHIL
es still
Phil shakes his head as if trying to clear it and starts of}
he Street.
E once a year, right?
EXT, TOWN SQUARE - CONTINUOUS
Phil rushes down the street. Again his eyes catch those of OLD
JENSEN siteing on the sidewalk leaning against a storefront.
Again, without thinking, he swats his supposedly empty pockets
then realizes that he did chis yesterday.
PHIL
‘This is some dream.
NED RYERSON (0.C.)
Hey, Phil!
Ned Ryerson approaches with the same cbnoxious actitude.
(CONTINUED)
3
CONTINUE:
PHIL
‘Thank you.
He heads for the door, still in a daze.
MAS, LANCASTER
Oh, will you be checking out today,
Me! Connors?
PHIL
(vaguely)
18 sey there's an eighty percent
He exits.
cur 70:
EXT. CHERRY STREET INN - MOMENTS LATER
Fhil gulps dow the steaming coffee, still trying to wake u
From wnat he assumes is a dream, and descends the Front steps of
the house. He accosts a PASSERBY.
PHIL
Excuse me. Where's everybody going?
PASSERSY
To Gobbler's Knob. It's Groundhog
Bay!
PHIL
es still
Phil shakes his head as if trying to clear it and starts of}
he Street.
E once a year, right?
EXT, TOWN SQUARE - CONTINUOUS
Phil rushes down the street. Again his eyes catch those of OLD
JENSEN siteing on the sidewalk leaning against a storefront.
Again, without thinking, he swats his supposedly empty pockets
then realizes that he did chis yesterday.
PHIL
‘This is some dream.
NED RYERSON (0.C.)
Hey, Phil!
Ned Ryerson approaches with the same cbnoxious actitude.
(CONTINUED)
Phil just
He backs
NED
Phil! Phil Connors! I thought that
was you!
stares at him and keeps walking.
aw
My ob my! “Phil Connors, Don't =
you don't remember ne, ‘cause I sure
aS*heck-fife remember you. well?
PRIL
Ned Ryerson?
NED
Bing! First shot right cur of the
Box. So how's it going, ol buddy?
PHIL
11 you the truth, Nedéy, I'm
: feeling real well. Could you
o NED
Now it's funny you should mention
your health "cause you'll never
Guess what 1 do
PHIL
Do you sell insurance, Ned?
Te
NED n
ing again! You're sharp as a tack
Today. Do you have life insurance.
BRET?" «Cause if you do, 2 ber vou
gould use more-- who couldn'e?-~ but
get a feeling you don't have any.
An T right’
PHIL
(desperate to get away)
1 gotta ge.
away from Ned and steps right into the same deep slushy
Puddle he steppea in che day before
NED
Hey. look out for that first step.
IE's a dcez
cur 70:
He backs
NED
Phil! Phil Connors! I thought that
was you!
stares at him and keeps walking.
aw
My ob my! “Phil Connors, Don't =
you don't remember ne, ‘cause I sure
aS*heck-fife remember you. well?
PRIL
Ned Ryerson?
NED
Bing! First shot right cur of the
Box. So how's it going, ol buddy?
PHIL
11 you the truth, Nedéy, I'm
: feeling real well. Could you
o NED
Now it's funny you should mention
your health "cause you'll never
Guess what 1 do
PHIL
Do you sell insurance, Ned?
Te
NED n
ing again! You're sharp as a tack
Today. Do you have life insurance.
BRET?" «Cause if you do, 2 ber vou
gould use more-- who couldn'e?-~ but
get a feeling you don't have any.
An T right’
PHIL
(desperate to get away)
1 gotta ge.
away from Ned and steps right into the same deep slushy
Puddle he steppea in che day before
NED
Hey. look out for that first step.
IE's a dcez
cur 70:
Revised Pink 3/13/92
EXT. GOBBLER'S KNOB - DAWN
The crowd is gathered as before for che big moment.
CROWD
(chanting)
Phil: Phil! Phil!
In the press area, Rita is having the same dialogue with Larry,
when she spots Phil.
RITA
Here he cones. Phil! Hey, Phi
Over here!
Phil makes it through the crowd to Rit
RITA
Where've you been? You're missing
all the fun.
PHIL
Rica, do me a favor. I've never
asked you for anything, 1 never
will again but this morning T need
à favor. I need someone to give
me a good hard slap en che face.
Rita shrugs and slaps him very hard.
PHIL
(his cheek smarting)
Thank you. That was almost too
hard, Rita.
LARRY
If you need help with the other
cheek, just let me know.
Riza shoves the slate into Phil's hands. Larry shoulders the
camera to shoot the slate.
PHIL
Something's going on, Rita. 1
don't know what to do.
RITA
Are you drunk or something?
PRIL
No, drunk is more fun. Can T be
serious with you for a minute?
RITA
1 don't know. Can you?
(CONTINUED)
EXT. GOBBLER'S KNOB - DAWN
The crowd is gathered as before for che big moment.
CROWD
(chanting)
Phil: Phil! Phil!
In the press area, Rita is having the same dialogue with Larry,
when she spots Phil.
RITA
Here he cones. Phil! Hey, Phi
Over here!
Phil makes it through the crowd to Rit
RITA
Where've you been? You're missing
all the fun.
PHIL
Rica, do me a favor. I've never
asked you for anything, 1 never
will again but this morning T need
à favor. I need someone to give
me a good hard slap en che face.
Rita shrugs and slaps him very hard.
PHIL
(his cheek smarting)
Thank you. That was almost too
hard, Rita.
LARRY
If you need help with the other
cheek, just let me know.
Riza shoves the slate into Phil's hands. Larry shoulders the
camera to shoot the slate.
PHIL
Something's going on, Rita. 1
don't know what to do.
RITA
Are you drunk or something?
PRIL
No, drunk is more fun. Can T be
serious with you for a minute?
RITA
1 don't know. Can you?
(CONTINUED)
-32- Revised Pink 3/13/92
34 CONTINUED:
PHIL
Yes. I'm being serious. I'm
having a problem-- no, I may be
having a problem.
LARRY
(to Rita, getting her
attention)
Rita.
To the cheers of the crowd, the Groundhog Club Officials parade
onto the stage.
RITA
Okay! Groundhog Time!
PHIL
See? 1 knew you were going to say
that. I've got a chill down my
spine.
RITA
Yeah. My toes are numb.
LARRY
My snot froze.
PEIL
1 mean it. 1 feel really weird.
RITA
Let’s just do this, Phil. Then
we'll talk.
Larry trains the camera on Phil. This time it takes Phil a
moment to get up to speed.
PHIL
(to camera)
Well, it's Groundhog Day-- again--
and you know what that means.
Phil begins rolling up microphone cable, gathering the slack as
he talks. Rita, not understanding, starts feeding it out to
him.
PHIL (CONTA
‘xe all here on Gobbler:s Knob,
waiting for the forecast from the
world's most famous groundhog,
Punxsutawney Phil, who's just
about eo rel) us Just how much
more winter we can expect.
(CONTINUED)
34 CONTINUED:
PHIL
Yes. I'm being serious. I'm
having a problem-- no, I may be
having a problem.
LARRY
(to Rita, getting her
attention)
Rita.
To the cheers of the crowd, the Groundhog Club Officials parade
onto the stage.
RITA
Okay! Groundhog Time!
PHIL
See? 1 knew you were going to say
that. I've got a chill down my
spine.
RITA
Yeah. My toes are numb.
LARRY
My snot froze.
PEIL
1 mean it. 1 feel really weird.
RITA
Let’s just do this, Phil. Then
we'll talk.
Larry trains the camera on Phil. This time it takes Phil a
moment to get up to speed.
PHIL
(to camera)
Well, it's Groundhog Day-- again--
and you know what that means.
Phil begins rolling up microphone cable, gathering the slack as
he talks. Rita, not understanding, starts feeding it out to
him.
PHIL (CONTA
‘xe all here on Gobbler:s Knob,
waiting for the forecast from the
world's most famous groundhog,
Punxsutawney Phil, who's just
about eo rel) us Just how much
more winter we can expect.
(CONTINUED)
34
Revised Pank 3/13/92
e
CONTINUED:
Buster Green knocks on the door of the holiow tree stump with
his cane. Another Official pulls the groundhog from the stump,
and the crowd cheers.
As the proceedings continue, Phil begins pushing into the crowd,
walking away from the camera, toward the Spot where the
Sroundhog ran the day before.
BUSTER
(reading from scroll}
This February Second, at seven
twenty and thirty seconds (etc.)--
LARRY
(Whispers to Rita)
Where's he going?!
ne microphone cord is playing out, beginning to tug at the
RITA
(argentiy)
1 don't know” Follow hin! Let's
aot
Larry end Rite ere forced to pick up al] their gear and follow
Phil into the crowd. Larry keeps shooting.
BUSTER (CONT.)
¿cana rated clearly in
roundhogese "I definitely see a
Shadow. y
The crowd good-naturedly goes ‘Awwey.* Other men on the stage
hold up the “Blizzard* and *Sleet* signs.
(CONTINUED)
Revised Pank 3/13/92
e
CONTINUED:
Buster Green knocks on the door of the holiow tree stump with
his cane. Another Official pulls the groundhog from the stump,
and the crowd cheers.
As the proceedings continue, Phil begins pushing into the crowd,
walking away from the camera, toward the Spot where the
Sroundhog ran the day before.
BUSTER
(reading from scroll}
This February Second, at seven
twenty and thirty seconds (etc.)--
LARRY
(Whispers to Rita)
Where's he going?!
ne microphone cord is playing out, beginning to tug at the
RITA
(argentiy)
1 don't know” Follow hin! Let's
aot
Larry end Rite ere forced to pick up al] their gear and follow
Phil into the crowd. Larry keeps shooting.
BUSTER (CONT.)
¿cana rated clearly in
roundhogese "I definitely see a
Shadow. y
The crowd good-naturedly goes ‘Awwey.* Other men on the stage
hold up the “Blizzard* and *Sleet* signs.
(CONTINUED)
ds
y=
pushin
il,
‘the spectators laugh appreciatively.
forward, then through peoples’ legs and final
e
TINUED:
suddenly, the groundhog again jumps out of the offici
and runs through the crowd as before.
LARRY'S TV CAMERA
g through the crowd. People slowly part as he presses
we see Phil, bent down face to face with tl
ey stare at each other for a moment.
realizing he is now on camera, tries to pull hinself
gether and create a one-cn-one interview.
PHIL
Since I have you here, 1 gotta ask ==
is this shadow thing legit, or did
you look at satellite photos like
the rest of us?
Rita and Larry watch in
Sacement
ste:
Phil,
Green walks over to Phil and takes the groundhog from
Thank you, Sir.
PEIL
(flustered, but still
professional)
Ana thank you, Punxsutawmey Phil,
the Seer of Seers, and a real down-
to-earth guy. From Punksutawney.
om Phil Connors.
realizing the implications of what just happened, drops
the microphone and wanders off.
Larry
shoots his strange exit then pans back to find Rita
watching Phil, amazed.
ar.
cur To:
SHOWER - LATER
screams as the cold water hits him.
cur 10:
totally in the
‘groundhag.
35
y=
pushin
il,
‘the spectators laugh appreciatively.
forward, then through peoples’ legs and final
e
TINUED:
suddenly, the groundhog again jumps out of the offici
and runs through the crowd as before.
LARRY'S TV CAMERA
g through the crowd. People slowly part as he presses
we see Phil, bent down face to face with tl
ey stare at each other for a moment.
realizing he is now on camera, tries to pull hinself
gether and create a one-cn-one interview.
PHIL
Since I have you here, 1 gotta ask ==
is this shadow thing legit, or did
you look at satellite photos like
the rest of us?
Rita and Larry watch in
Sacement
ste:
Phil,
Green walks over to Phil and takes the groundhog from
Thank you, Sir.
PEIL
(flustered, but still
professional)
Ana thank you, Punxsutawmey Phil,
the Seer of Seers, and a real down-
to-earth guy. From Punksutawney.
om Phil Connors.
realizing the implications of what just happened, drops
the microphone and wanders off.
Larry
shoots his strange exit then pans back to find Rita
watching Phil, amazed.
ar.
cur To:
SHOWER - LATER
screams as the cold water hits him.
cur 10:
totally in the
‘groundhag.
35
36
39
-35-
INT, PHIL'S ROOM + LATER
Phi? is on the phone, wrapped in a blanket, desperately cry
to Fake a cı
PHIL
fon the phone)
I know there's a blizzard. When do
10ng distance lines
g agaan?...But what if
have a tomorrow? We didn't
have one today... Hello. .Hello?
He hangs up and shakes his head which is now really starting to
ache, then he pops a handful of aspirin, lies down and pulls the
Covers up over his head. A moment later, he sits up, takes a
pencil from the nightstand, breaks it in half and puts che
Pieces back on the nightstand. Then he lies down again and
Fetreats back under the covers
eur 10:
INT. PHIL'S ROOM - DAWN
CLOSE UP - Lock
radio changes from 5:59 to 6:00 aM. The radio comes
Playing the end of the Sonny and Cher hit, "2 Got You,
abe," gust as it did che day before
The clock
Phil sits up in bed fearing the worst and locks on the
nightstand.” The peneil is whole again. The merning deesays
Begin their now familiar rap.
DEEJAY
Okay, campers, rise and shine, and
£ forget your booties because
$s *cogoe ott there ceday
SIDEKICK
It's cold out there everyday. What
is this-- Miami Beach?
Phil is almost shaking with intensity and fear, He listens for
a while, not moving, then throws the covers off.
cur 70:
zoom, just as the
(CONTINUED)
3
3
39
-35-
INT, PHIL'S ROOM + LATER
Phi? is on the phone, wrapped in a blanket, desperately cry
to Fake a cı
PHIL
fon the phone)
I know there's a blizzard. When do
10ng distance lines
g agaan?...But what if
have a tomorrow? We didn't
have one today... Hello. .Hello?
He hangs up and shakes his head which is now really starting to
ache, then he pops a handful of aspirin, lies down and pulls the
Covers up over his head. A moment later, he sits up, takes a
pencil from the nightstand, breaks it in half and puts che
Pieces back on the nightstand. Then he lies down again and
Fetreats back under the covers
eur 10:
INT. PHIL'S ROOM - DAWN
CLOSE UP - Lock
radio changes from 5:59 to 6:00 aM. The radio comes
Playing the end of the Sonny and Cher hit, "2 Got You,
abe," gust as it did che day before
The clock
Phil sits up in bed fearing the worst and locks on the
nightstand.” The peneil is whole again. The merning deesays
Begin their now familiar rap.
DEEJAY
Okay, campers, rise and shine, and
£ forget your booties because
$s *cogoe ott there ceday
SIDEKICK
It's cold out there everyday. What
is this-- Miami Beach?
Phil is almost shaking with intensity and fear, He listens for
a while, not moving, then throws the covers off.
cur 70:
zoom, just as the
(CONTINUED)
3
3
38
40
a
Revised Blue 3/7/32
CONTINUED:
CHUBBY MAN
Morning. "Think it'll be an early
spring?
Phil glares at him as if he's just seen a ghost, and keeps
moving.
cur To:
INT. BREAKFAST ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Phil enters the room just as Mrs. Lancı
the coffee.
ter is coming out with
MRS. LANCASTER
Did you sleep well, Mr. Connors?
Phil continues past her and rushes out the door.
cur 10:
EXT. CHERRY STREET INN - MOMENTS LATER
Phil bursts from the Inn, coat unbuttoned, and surveys the
street. dust as before, pecple are up and about, heading for
the Knéb. He runs doun the stairs.
cur To:
EXT. TOWN SQUARE - MOMENTS LATER
Phil veers around Old Jensen, then stops to catch his breath.
Hey, Phil! Phil Connors! I thought
that was yout
Phil pushes him away, but Ned keeps on coming.
NED
Don't say you don't remember me,
“cause 1 sure as heck-fire remember
you.
Phil shoves him away again, and continues rushing toward the
Knob.
(CONTINUED)
40
a
Revised Blue 3/7/32
CONTINUED:
CHUBBY MAN
Morning. "Think it'll be an early
spring?
Phil glares at him as if he's just seen a ghost, and keeps
moving.
cur To:
INT. BREAKFAST ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Phil enters the room just as Mrs. Lancı
the coffee.
ter is coming out with
MRS. LANCASTER
Did you sleep well, Mr. Connors?
Phil continues past her and rushes out the door.
cur 10:
EXT. CHERRY STREET INN - MOMENTS LATER
Phil bursts from the Inn, coat unbuttoned, and surveys the
street. dust as before, pecple are up and about, heading for
the Knéb. He runs doun the stairs.
cur To:
EXT. TOWN SQUARE - MOMENTS LATER
Phil veers around Old Jensen, then stops to catch his breath.
Hey, Phil! Phil Connors! I thought
that was yout
Phil pushes him away, but Ned keeps on coming.
NED
Don't say you don't remember me,
“cause 1 sure as heck-fire remember
you.
Phil shoves him away again, and continues rushing toward the
Knob.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED:
PHIL
Get away!
In his hasty retreat,
but keeps going.
Phil steps
OMITTED (SEE: 492 - 490)
EXT. GOBBLER'S KNOB - DAWN
Phil pushes through the crowd at
rom
(chanting)
hilt Phil!” Phil!
To him, it's like a nightmare as
through the crowd to Rita.
RITA
Mere ve you been?
all the fun.
PHIL
Revised Pink 3/13/92
right into the slush puddle,
cur To:
the Knob.
he desperately shoves his way
You're missing
(trying to contain his
paniel
Coula T talk to you about a matter
that is not work related?
really have
RITA
You never talk about work.
PHIL
Just come with me. We
to talk.
As he pulls her away he notices Larry eyeing them curiously.
LARRY
Is he hurting you?
PHIL,
{to Larry)
Creative meeting. You'd be bored.
RITA
Wait a second, we've got work to
do.
RIL
No, I’ve already done it. 1/21 be
atthe diner.
(CONTINUED)
PHIL
Get away!
In his hasty retreat,
but keeps going.
Phil steps
OMITTED (SEE: 492 - 490)
EXT. GOBBLER'S KNOB - DAWN
Phil pushes through the crowd at
rom
(chanting)
hilt Phil!” Phil!
To him, it's like a nightmare as
through the crowd to Rita.
RITA
Mere ve you been?
all the fun.
PHIL
Revised Pink 3/13/92
right into the slush puddle,
cur To:
the Knob.
he desperately shoves his way
You're missing
(trying to contain his
paniel
Coula T talk to you about a matter
that is not work related?
really have
RITA
You never talk about work.
PHIL
Just come with me. We
to talk.
As he pulls her away he notices Larry eyeing them curiously.
LARRY
Is he hurting you?
PHIL,
{to Larry)
Creative meeting. You'd be bored.
RITA
Wait a second, we've got work to
do.
RIL
No, I’ve already done it. 1/21 be
atthe diner.
(CONTINUED)
46
a
Revised Pink 3/22/92
37k
CONTINUED:
He exits.
cur 70:
INT. DINER - CONTINUOUS
They sit together at the same table they had previously.
approaches.
DORIS
More coffee, hon?
(CONTINUED)
peris
a
Revised Pink 3/22/92
37k
CONTINUED:
He exits.
cur 70:
INT. DINER - CONTINUOUS
They sit together at the same table they had previously.
approaches.
DORIS
More coffee, hon?
(CONTINUED)
peris
Revised Blue
-38-
CONTINUED:
RITA
Just the check, please. These
sticky buns are just heaven.
DORIS
(pleased)
aren't they’
Doris exits.
RITA
e y
Okay, ‘new you tell me why you're too
Sick’ to wok and it better be good.
PEIL
Rita, I keep reliving the same day
‘over’ and over-- Groundhog Day--
today. It’s uncanny.
RITA
Un-hub. Z'm waiting for the
punchline.
PEIL
No, really. This is the third time.
It's like yesterday never happened.
RITA
iim wracking my brain, but Y cant
even imagine why you'd make up
Something like chlı
PHIL
I'm not making it up! I'm asking
for your help!
RITA
What do you want me to do?
PHIL
I don't Xnowi you're the producer.
You figure it out.
’kay want dvi 1 think
Okay, you want my advice? 1 chin
You anbeld have your head examined
17 you expect me to believe a lame
story like thee, Phils
ors
(overheating)
ns?
(CONTINUED)
3/7/92
-38-
CONTINUED:
RITA
Just the check, please. These
sticky buns are just heaven.
DORIS
(pleased)
aren't they’
Doris exits.
RITA
e y
Okay, ‘new you tell me why you're too
Sick’ to wok and it better be good.
PEIL
Rita, I keep reliving the same day
‘over’ and over-- Groundhog Day--
today. It’s uncanny.
RITA
Un-hub. Z'm waiting for the
punchline.
PEIL
No, really. This is the third time.
It's like yesterday never happened.
RITA
iim wracking my brain, but Y cant
even imagine why you'd make up
Something like chlı
PHIL
I'm not making it up! I'm asking
for your help!
RITA
What do you want me to do?
PHIL
I don't Xnowi you're the producer.
You figure it out.
’kay want dvi 1 think
Okay, you want my advice? 1 chin
You anbeld have your head examined
17 you expect me to believe a lame
story like thee, Phils
ors
(overheating)
ns?
(CONTINUED)
3/7/92
47
Revised Blue 3/7/92
CONTINUED:
PHIL WITH GUS
Like the groundhog.
VARIOUS VOICES
Hey, Phil! shadow scare ya this
morning? (another) Have @ good nap?
(another) Hollow log too small for
you?
Fhil shakes his head at the now familiar chorus of lane jokes.
PHI,
(mutters)
Morons
es his head in the doorway, looks around, spots Rita
his way over to their table.
LARRY
You ready? We better get going if
voire going to stay ahead Of the
weather.
Rita stands up. Phil remains seated.
RITA
Come on, Phil. We can talk about it
back in’ Pittsburgh.
PHIL,
I'm not going back to Pittsburgh--
RITA
You're not=~
PHIL
--because of the blizzard.
RITA
I thought you said it was hitting
Altoona--
PHIL
(sharply)
I KNOW that's what I said!
RITA
(calmly)
Phil, T think you need help.
Revised Blue 3/7/92
CONTINUED:
PHIL WITH GUS
Like the groundhog.
VARIOUS VOICES
Hey, Phil! shadow scare ya this
morning? (another) Have @ good nap?
(another) Hollow log too small for
you?
Fhil shakes his head at the now familiar chorus of lane jokes.
PHI,
(mutters)
Morons
es his head in the doorway, looks around, spots Rita
his way over to their table.
LARRY
You ready? We better get going if
voire going to stay ahead Of the
weather.
Rita stands up. Phil remains seated.
RITA
Come on, Phil. We can talk about it
back in’ Pittsburgh.
PHIL,
I'm not going back to Pittsburgh--
RITA
You're not=~
PHIL
--because of the blizzard.
RITA
I thought you said it was hitting
Altoona--
PHIL
(sharply)
I KNOW that's what I said!
RITA
(calmly)
Phil, T think you need help.
Revised Pink 3/13/92
-40-
48 INT. MEDICAL CLINIC - DAY
INSERT
X-rays of Phil's skull are slapped up onto a light box.
Phil is having his head examined by a NEUROLOGIST.
NEUROLOGIST
No spots, no clots, no tumors, no
lesions, no aneuriäms. At least,
none chat 1 can see. Of course,
if you want a CAT-scan or an MRE,
you have to go into Pittsburgh.
PHIL
1 can't go into Pittsburgh.
NEUROLOGIST
Why can't you go to Pittsburgh?
PH
F told you. "There's a blizzard.
NEUROLOGIST
(hunoring him)
Oh, right, the blizzard. vou
know What you may need, Mr.
Connors?
PHIL,
A biopsy?
NEUROLOGIST
No. A psychiatrist.
49 INT. PSYCHOLOGIST'S OFFICE - DAY
Punxsutawney's only PSYCHOLOGIST is a marriage and family
counselor at the local Lutheran church. His appearance and
manner indicate he may have some serious problems of his own.
PSYCHOLOGIST
{not too confident)
‘That's kind of an unusual problem,
Mr. Connors. Most of my work is
with couples, families, che
occasional aicholoic.
PHIL
Didn't you take a course about
this kind of scuff.
(CONTINUED)
-40-
48 INT. MEDICAL CLINIC - DAY
INSERT
X-rays of Phil's skull are slapped up onto a light box.
Phil is having his head examined by a NEUROLOGIST.
NEUROLOGIST
No spots, no clots, no tumors, no
lesions, no aneuriäms. At least,
none chat 1 can see. Of course,
if you want a CAT-scan or an MRE,
you have to go into Pittsburgh.
PHIL
1 can't go into Pittsburgh.
NEUROLOGIST
Why can't you go to Pittsburgh?
PH
F told you. "There's a blizzard.
NEUROLOGIST
(hunoring him)
Oh, right, the blizzard. vou
know What you may need, Mr.
Connors?
PHIL,
A biopsy?
NEUROLOGIST
No. A psychiatrist.
49 INT. PSYCHOLOGIST'S OFFICE - DAY
Punxsutawney's only PSYCHOLOGIST is a marriage and family
counselor at the local Lutheran church. His appearance and
manner indicate he may have some serious problems of his own.
PSYCHOLOGIST
{not too confident)
‘That's kind of an unusual problem,
Mr. Connors. Most of my work is
with couples, families, che
occasional aicholoic.
PHIL
Didn't you take a course about
this kind of scuff.
(CONTINUED)
43
son
498
asc
Revised Pink 3/13/92
ae
CONTINUED: 4
PSYCHOLOGIST
Sort of, I guess. Abnormal
Psychology.
PHIL
Dammit, 1 never wanted to be .
abnormal. So I'm crazy. .
PSYCHOLOGIST
(hesitant)
We never say crazy. You may be -
just a little delusional. x
PHIL
So I’m delusional. Then none of
this is happening.
PSYCHOLOGIST
(hunoring him) .
1 wouldn't think so. +
PHIL
So what do 1 do? s
PSYCHOLOSIST
1 think we should meet again. How .
about tomorrow? Bi
cur 10:
OMITTED 49.
EXT. CORRIDOR - LATER 49
Mrs. Lancaster and several other guests are gathered in the hall
outside Phil's room, listening at the door and looking very
worried. Loud music is playing, but from inside the room, they
gan hear the sound of hammering, wood splintering and glass
‘eaking.
INT, PEIL*S ROOM - SAME TIME a
Phil has demolished all the furniture and woodwork in the room
and splashed himself and everything else in the room with bright
red paint, As a final touch he drops a delicate crystal vase
and fe shatters on the floor. en crosses to the mirror
Over the demolished sink.
(CONTINUED)
son
498
asc
Revised Pink 3/13/92
ae
CONTINUED: 4
PSYCHOLOGIST
Sort of, I guess. Abnormal
Psychology.
PHIL
Dammit, 1 never wanted to be .
abnormal. So I'm crazy. .
PSYCHOLOGIST
(hesitant)
We never say crazy. You may be -
just a little delusional. x
PHIL
So I’m delusional. Then none of
this is happening.
PSYCHOLOGIST
(hunoring him) .
1 wouldn't think so. +
PHIL
So what do 1 do? s
PSYCHOLOSIST
1 think we should meet again. How .
about tomorrow? Bi
cur 10:
OMITTED 49.
EXT. CORRIDOR - LATER 49
Mrs. Lancaster and several other guests are gathered in the hall
outside Phil's room, listening at the door and looking very
worried. Loud music is playing, but from inside the room, they
gan hear the sound of hammering, wood splintering and glass
‘eaking.
INT, PEIL*S ROOM - SAME TIME a
Phil has demolished all the furniture and woodwork in the room
and splashed himself and everything else in the room with bright
red paint, As a final touch he drops a delicate crystal vase
and fe shatters on the floor. en crosses to the mirror
Over the demolished sink.
(CONTINUED)
Revised Pink 3/13/92
us
49C CONTINUED: ES
Phil stands at the sink, staring at his image in the mirror, .
trying to figure out what's happening to him. He starts
Breathing heavier, as if gatherang courage, then, Just when we
think he's going to cut off his ear or something, he raises an
electric barber clipper and shaves a bald stripe up the middie
Of his head.
He studies his new look for a mement then smashes the mirror
with a brass candlestick. y
Then he falls exhausted on the bed and closes his eyes. we can 1
TES? Beofia'potnding’on fhe door cutsiae.
Me pan over to the clock radio, the only undanaged object in the
room which reads 5:59
49D The tine changes to 6:00, the radio clicks on and *T Got You, 491
Babe" starts playing as we pan back to Phil sleeping on the bed.
He opens his eves. jumps out of bed and races over to the sink. ©
The mirror is whole again and his hair is completely restored as à
32°it had never been shaved.
‘The song ends and the deejays come on. Phil says every word
Fight along with them, shocked into a state of complete
wonderment =
PEIL AND DEEJAY
Okay, campers, rise and shine, and
don't forget your booties because
it's COOOLD out there today.
PHIL AND SIDEKICK
It's cold out there everyday.
What is this-- Mani Beach?
The deejay laughs. Phil laughs dully along with him.
50 INSERT - A BACKLIT TRANSPARENCY OF THE SOLAR SYSTEM 5
A SCIENTIST in a white lab coat is pointing at the graphic
Phil looks on with interest.
SCIENTIST
(with authority)
Now if the moon exerts a
gravitational pull strong enough
to cause the tides, then it may be
theoretically possible for a Black
Hole ora Singularity of
sufficient magnitude co actually
bend time enough to cause it to
fold back on itself.
(CONTINUED)
us
49C CONTINUED: ES
Phil stands at the sink, staring at his image in the mirror, .
trying to figure out what's happening to him. He starts
Breathing heavier, as if gatherang courage, then, Just when we
think he's going to cut off his ear or something, he raises an
electric barber clipper and shaves a bald stripe up the middie
Of his head.
He studies his new look for a mement then smashes the mirror
with a brass candlestick. y
Then he falls exhausted on the bed and closes his eyes. we can 1
TES? Beofia'potnding’on fhe door cutsiae.
Me pan over to the clock radio, the only undanaged object in the
room which reads 5:59
49D The tine changes to 6:00, the radio clicks on and *T Got You, 491
Babe" starts playing as we pan back to Phil sleeping on the bed.
He opens his eves. jumps out of bed and races over to the sink. ©
The mirror is whole again and his hair is completely restored as à
32°it had never been shaved.
‘The song ends and the deejays come on. Phil says every word
Fight along with them, shocked into a state of complete
wonderment =
PEIL AND DEEJAY
Okay, campers, rise and shine, and
don't forget your booties because
it's COOOLD out there today.
PHIL AND SIDEKICK
It's cold out there everyday.
What is this-- Mani Beach?
The deejay laughs. Phil laughs dully along with him.
50 INSERT - A BACKLIT TRANSPARENCY OF THE SOLAR SYSTEM 5
A SCIENTIST in a white lab coat is pointing at the graphic
Phil looks on with interest.
SCIENTIST
(with authority)
Now if the moon exerts a
gravitational pull strong enough
to cause the tides, then it may be
theoretically possible for a Black
Hole ora Singularity of
sufficient magnitude co actually
bend time enough to cause it to
fold back on itself.
(CONTINUED)
a
OMITTED
OMITTED
so
s2
Pre
CONTINUED:
PHIL
You think that's a realistic
possibility?
A paper airplane sails past his head, accompanied by a noisy
outburst of juvenile laughter
PULL BACK TO REVEAL:
INT. CLASSROOM - DAY
‘Twenty-five eighth-graders running amok.
SCIENTIST
(sternly) .
All righei Y think someone may just
Need a little visit to the Assistant
Principal's office! Get back in
your seats. The bell has not rung
yet.
The kids sit back down, but keep up their noisy chatter.
SCIENT:
{to Phil)
Of course, I'm speaking purely
hypothetscally.
cur 10:
INT. SCHOOL CORRIDOR/FIRST GRADE CLASSROOM - LATER
Phil is walking toward the exit when he passes a first grade
classroom. The door is open and the TEACHER is narrating a
faisy tale while several ef the children act it out for che rest
of the class
PRINCESS
{stiffly)
Yes, little frog, because you
returned my golden ball 1 will grant
you one last wish.
Phil stops outside che door to watch.
INT. CLASSROOM - CONTINUOUS
A LITTLE BOY in a makeshift frog costume hops around unsteadily.
FROG
M wish is this. That you give me
Just one kis!
(CONTINUED)
s2
Pre
CONTINUED:
PHIL
You think that's a realistic
possibility?
A paper airplane sails past his head, accompanied by a noisy
outburst of juvenile laughter
PULL BACK TO REVEAL:
INT. CLASSROOM - DAY
‘Twenty-five eighth-graders running amok.
SCIENTIST
(sternly) .
All righei Y think someone may just
Need a little visit to the Assistant
Principal's office! Get back in
your seats. The bell has not rung
yet.
The kids sit back down, but keep up their noisy chatter.
SCIENT:
{to Phil)
Of course, I'm speaking purely
hypothetscally.
cur 10:
INT. SCHOOL CORRIDOR/FIRST GRADE CLASSROOM - LATER
Phil is walking toward the exit when he passes a first grade
classroom. The door is open and the TEACHER is narrating a
faisy tale while several ef the children act it out for che rest
of the class
PRINCESS
{stiffly)
Yes, little frog, because you
returned my golden ball 1 will grant
you one last wish.
Phil stops outside che door to watch.
INT. CLASSROOM - CONTINUOUS
A LITTLE BOY in a makeshift frog costume hops around unsteadily.
FROG
M wish is this. That you give me
Just one kis!
(CONTINUED)
52
sa
54
Revised Yellow
-a5-
CONTINUED:
The princess kisses the frog who clumsily tumbles over. The
kids laugh.
‘TEACHER
Now who can tell me what happened
when the princess kissed the frog.
A BOY
Her lips got slimed!
The whole class erupts in giggles and shrieks.
‘TEACHER
Okay, come on now. What happened
when she kissed the frog?
LITTLE GIRL,
‘The princess kissed the frog and
the spell got broke and he turned
into a handsone prince, and, they
got married and lived happily ever
After.
| TEACHER
That's right.
The frog-boy stands up and takes off his frog costune and dons
an aluminum foil crown. ‘The other kids clap.
VP. THE CORRIDOR - SAME TIME
Phil is leaning against the wall listening. There is something
very arresting about the fairy tale, but finally he just shaker
MiS mesa and exits: = un
cur To:
cu chock
The clock-radio changes from 5:59 to 6:00 AM. The radio comes
on, playing *I Got You, Babe.
Phil's hand swings around and swats the radio off.
cur mo:
s
sa
54
Revised Yellow
-a5-
CONTINUED:
The princess kisses the frog who clumsily tumbles over. The
kids laugh.
‘TEACHER
Now who can tell me what happened
when the princess kissed the frog.
A BOY
Her lips got slimed!
The whole class erupts in giggles and shrieks.
‘TEACHER
Okay, come on now. What happened
when she kissed the frog?
LITTLE GIRL,
‘The princess kissed the frog and
the spell got broke and he turned
into a handsone prince, and, they
got married and lived happily ever
After.
| TEACHER
That's right.
The frog-boy stands up and takes off his frog costune and dons
an aluminum foil crown. ‘The other kids clap.
VP. THE CORRIDOR - SAME TIME
Phil is leaning against the wall listening. There is something
very arresting about the fairy tale, but finally he just shaker
MiS mesa and exits: = un
cur To:
cu chock
The clock-radio changes from 5:59 to 6:00 AM. The radio comes
on, playing *I Got You, Babe.
Phil's hand swings around and swats the radio off.
cur mo:
s
ss
56
57
se
Revised Goldenrod 4/24/92
-46-
cu cuocx ss
59 to
The clock-radio changes from +00 AM. The radio comes
on, playing "I Got You, Babe.
Phil's hand swings around and flips the radio upside down.
cur mo:
cu chock 56
The clock-radio changes from 5:59 to 6:00 AM. The radio comes
on, playing "I Got You, Babe.”
Phil's fist comes down and beats in the top of the radio.
cur 10:
cv clock 37
The clock-radio changes from 5:59 to 6:00 AM. The radio comes
on, playing "I Got You, Rabe.”
Phil sits up, grabs the radio with both hands, wrestles with it,
and hurls it against the wall. From the floor we hear:
DEEJAY
and
it's coooold out there today!
cur to:
INT. BOWLING ALLEY - LATER THAT NIGHT se
Phil is at the bar drinking coffee in Punxsutawney's little :
eight-lane bowling alley. Sitting down the bar from him are the *
two young geezers, Gus and Ralph. They're drinking heavily, *
Phil’ ds seeking to coffee. :
PAID
Iwas in the Virgin islands, once.
1 met a girl, we ate lobster,
drank piña coladas. AE Sunset, we
made love like sea otters. It was
a pretty good day. Why couldn't,
1 get that day over and over
again.
(CONTINUED)
56
57
se
Revised Goldenrod 4/24/92
-46-
cu cuocx ss
59 to
The clock-radio changes from +00 AM. The radio comes
on, playing "I Got You, Babe.
Phil's hand swings around and flips the radio upside down.
cur mo:
cu chock 56
The clock-radio changes from 5:59 to 6:00 AM. The radio comes
on, playing "I Got You, Babe.”
Phil's fist comes down and beats in the top of the radio.
cur 10:
cv clock 37
The clock-radio changes from 5:59 to 6:00 AM. The radio comes
on, playing "I Got You, Rabe.”
Phil sits up, grabs the radio with both hands, wrestles with it,
and hurls it against the wall. From the floor we hear:
DEEJAY
and
it's coooold out there today!
cur to:
INT. BOWLING ALLEY - LATER THAT NIGHT se
Phil is at the bar drinking coffee in Punxsutawney's little :
eight-lane bowling alley. Sitting down the bar from him are the *
two young geezers, Gus and Ralph. They're drinking heavily, *
Phil’ ds seeking to coffee. :
PAID
Iwas in the Virgin islands, once.
1 met a girl, we ate lobster,
drank piña coladas. AE Sunset, we
made love like sea otters. It was
a pretty good day. Why couldn't,
1 get that day over and over
again.
(CONTINUED)
se
Revised Goldenrod 4/24/92
=47-
CONTINUED:
ous
I you're not happy: here, why
don't you try someplace else?
PHIL
Because if you take 36 east or 310
north=- you hit blizzard. If you
Ery riding a horse west over
Sutter's Arbor? Blizzard-= and a
sore butt. And when 1 hot-wired
2 snowmobile and headed south-~
RALPH
Blizzard?
PEI
Yeah, plus T got a barbed wire
body wrap and lost a great deal of
blood.
Gus holds up half a glass of beer.
us
Some people look at this glass and
say it’s half empty; others say
it's half full. You're a "glass
Ae Bele eupeyr And: GE à guys
aren't you?
PHIL
(exasperated)
How would you feel if you were
stuck in one place, if every day
was exactly the same and nothing
you id mattered?
Gus and Ralph realize he could be talking about their lives.
RALPH
‘That about sums it up for me.
PHIL
So how full is your glass?
us
(depressed)
I'm down to about a quarter tank
here.
Ralph fini the last of his beer and regards his glass.
RALEH
even more depressed)
Runnin’ on empty.
se
Revised Goldenrod 4/24/92
=47-
CONTINUED:
ous
I you're not happy: here, why
don't you try someplace else?
PHIL
Because if you take 36 east or 310
north=- you hit blizzard. If you
Ery riding a horse west over
Sutter's Arbor? Blizzard-= and a
sore butt. And when 1 hot-wired
2 snowmobile and headed south-~
RALPH
Blizzard?
PEI
Yeah, plus T got a barbed wire
body wrap and lost a great deal of
blood.
Gus holds up half a glass of beer.
us
Some people look at this glass and
say it’s half empty; others say
it's half full. You're a "glass
Ae Bele eupeyr And: GE à guys
aren't you?
PHIL
(exasperated)
How would you feel if you were
stuck in one place, if every day
was exactly the same and nothing
you id mattered?
Gus and Ralph realize he could be talking about their lives.
RALPH
‘That about sums it up for me.
PHIL
So how full is your glass?
us
(depressed)
I'm down to about a quarter tank
here.
Ralph fini the last of his beer and regards his glass.
RALEH
even more depressed)
Runnin’ on empty.
se
-46-
59 EXT. THE STREET - LATER
Phil, Gus and Ralph approach Ralph's big, old red Cadillac
Parked outside the bar. Gus and Ralph are very drunk.
RALPH
(fumbling with his car
keys!
Come on. 1'11 drop you guys off.
Ralph barely gets the key into the car lock. The momentun of
Singing the Eoor open khocks him down tothe ground
sus
(to Phil)
He's in no shape.
Gimme those, Ralph. Friends don't
Tec friends drive drunk.
kes the keys, gets in, starts the car, and begins to drive
in reverse, - leaving Phil at the curb with Ralph. Phil
Steps out into the street as Gus pulls back up.
sus
This isn't my car.
Phil opens the docr and shoves Ralph in the driver’s side.
PHIL
{to Gus)
Here. Hold this.
60 INT. THE CADILLAC - CONTINUOUS 60
Phil slides into the drivers seat and buckles up.
PHIL
Seatbeles
He pulls the shoulder belt over both Ralph and Gus.
cus
What's your name agaii
PAIL
Phil.
sus
59 EXT. THE STREET - LATER
Phil, Gus and Ralph approach Ralph's big, old red Cadillac
Parked outside the bar. Gus and Ralph are very drunk.
RALPH
(fumbling with his car
keys!
Come on. 1'11 drop you guys off.
Ralph barely gets the key into the car lock. The momentun of
Singing the Eoor open khocks him down tothe ground
sus
(to Phil)
He's in no shape.
Gimme those, Ralph. Friends don't
Tec friends drive drunk.
kes the keys, gets in, starts the car, and begins to drive
in reverse, - leaving Phil at the curb with Ralph. Phil
Steps out into the street as Gus pulls back up.
sus
This isn't my car.
Phil opens the docr and shoves Ralph in the driver’s side.
PHIL
{to Gus)
Here. Hold this.
60 INT. THE CADILLAC - CONTINUOUS 60
Phil slides into the drivers seat and buckles up.
PHIL
Seatbeles
He pulls the shoulder belt over both Ralph and Gus.
cus
What's your name agaii
PAIL
Phil.
sus
$2
64
ss
-13-
pulls away, unhurriedly, and cruises for a while.
PH:
Let me ask you guys a question.
what if there were no tomorrow?
RALPH
No tomorrow? Let's see. That'd
make today yesterday.
cus
No tomorrow means no hangovers. No
consequences. Do whatever you want.
PEEL
That's true
Phil casually turns the wheel to the right.
EXT. THE STREET - CONTINUOUS 62
The car bumps over the curb and up onto the sidewalk. A
passenger stepping out of his rarked car hes to sump back in to
Evie Being ACE os Phil continues driving dow the sidewalk.
Anz. THE CADILLAC - SAME TIME 6
PRI
We could do whatever the hell we
looks out the window.
RALPH
‘There's my house.
EXT, THE STREET - SAME TIME 64
Phil knocks over a mailbox at the end of the block, bounces back
onto the street and turns right onto the town squar
INT, POLICE CAR -SAM TIME 6
‘Two COPS parked on the square see Phil wipe out the mailbox.
COP ONE
Party car.
cor THO
Come on. Let's try to get ‘em home
Before they hurt somebody.
64
ss
-13-
pulls away, unhurriedly, and cruises for a while.
PH:
Let me ask you guys a question.
what if there were no tomorrow?
RALPH
No tomorrow? Let's see. That'd
make today yesterday.
cus
No tomorrow means no hangovers. No
consequences. Do whatever you want.
PEEL
That's true
Phil casually turns the wheel to the right.
EXT. THE STREET - CONTINUOUS 62
The car bumps over the curb and up onto the sidewalk. A
passenger stepping out of his rarked car hes to sump back in to
Evie Being ACE os Phil continues driving dow the sidewalk.
Anz. THE CADILLAC - SAME TIME 6
PRI
We could do whatever the hell we
looks out the window.
RALPH
‘There's my house.
EXT, THE STREET - SAME TIME 64
Phil knocks over a mailbox at the end of the block, bounces back
onto the street and turns right onto the town squar
INT, POLICE CAR -SAM TIME 6
‘Two COPS parked on the square see Phil wipe out the mailbox.
COP ONE
Party car.
cor THO
Come on. Let's try to get ‘em home
Before they hurt somebody.
$
se
68
70
EXT. POLICE CAR - SAME TIME
It pulls out, lights flashing, in close pursuit of the Cadillac
INT. CADILLAC - SAME TIME
turning.
fast lap arcund the square
5 back at the police car ch
Phil begins co accelera
ing them.
Gus loc}
sus
1 think they want you to stop.
eur
Yeah, there's always someone tryin
to tell you what a do. ws
RALPH
Ain't it the truth.
Phil hits the brakes. The car spins 180 degrees and skids.
EXT, THE STREET - SAME TIME
‘The police car runs up onto the sidewalk to avoid a collision
with che Cadillac and runs inte a trashcan with a groundhog en
Hep ives flies everywhere as the police car Janson It's
brdkes.
‘The Caddy stops parallel to the police car, Phil waves at the
cops, then peels away in reverse.
INT. THE G
Ralph looks cut the window.
LAC - SAME TIME
RALPH
‘There's the back of my house.
PHIL
Your whole life it’s the same thing.
Hang up your clothes, don’t talk
With your mouth full, do your
homework, be home by midnight, get
a 30D, nó smoking==
EXT. THE STREET - CONTINUOUS
‘The cor hits a patch of solid ice, skids around and comes to a
stop straddling the railroad tracks.
ES
69
«
se
68
70
EXT. POLICE CAR - SAME TIME
It pulls out, lights flashing, in close pursuit of the Cadillac
INT. CADILLAC - SAME TIME
turning.
fast lap arcund the square
5 back at the police car ch
Phil begins co accelera
ing them.
Gus loc}
sus
1 think they want you to stop.
eur
Yeah, there's always someone tryin
to tell you what a do. ws
RALPH
Ain't it the truth.
Phil hits the brakes. The car spins 180 degrees and skids.
EXT, THE STREET - SAME TIME
‘The police car runs up onto the sidewalk to avoid a collision
with che Cadillac and runs inte a trashcan with a groundhog en
Hep ives flies everywhere as the police car Janson It's
brdkes.
‘The Caddy stops parallel to the police car, Phil waves at the
cops, then peels away in reverse.
INT. THE G
Ralph looks cut the window.
LAC - SAME TIME
RALPH
‘There's the back of my house.
PHIL
Your whole life it’s the same thing.
Hang up your clothes, don’t talk
With your mouth full, do your
homework, be home by midnight, get
a 30D, nó smoking==
EXT. THE STREET - CONTINUOUS
‘The cor hits a patch of solid ice, skids around and comes to a
stop straddling the railroad tracks.
ES
69
«
7
INT. THE CADILLAC - SAME TIME
Phil looks down the track, exhilirated by the chase.
PHIL
(eyes gleaning)
--don'E drive on the railroad
tracks.
cus
Well now, that’s one I happen to
agree with.
Phil starts driving down the tracks. The fast bunping across
the railroad ties causes all their voices to vibrate.
5
1 don't know, Gus. Sometimes you
Just have to take the big chance.
sus
E]
Yeah, that’s what T used co think,
bue i gor the feelin’ 1 woulda been
better off seaysn’ in the Navy.
EXT. THE RAILROAD TRACKS - SAME TIME
The police car is bumping along the tracks in pursuit of the
caddy.
POLICE
(jiteery on loudspeaker) |
Pull over to the side! This is the
police.
INT. THE CADILLAC - SAME TIME
Gus rolis down his window.
cus
Gitcery, yelling out
window)
Hey, we're talking, here!
Ralph looks out and points.
(CONTINUED)
INT. THE CADILLAC - SAME TIME
Phil looks down the track, exhilirated by the chase.
PHIL
(eyes gleaning)
--don'E drive on the railroad
tracks.
cus
Well now, that’s one I happen to
agree with.
Phil starts driving down the tracks. The fast bunping across
the railroad ties causes all their voices to vibrate.
5
1 don't know, Gus. Sometimes you
Just have to take the big chance.
sus
E]
Yeah, that’s what T used co think,
bue i gor the feelin’ 1 woulda been
better off seaysn’ in the Navy.
EXT. THE RAILROAD TRACKS - SAME TIME
The police car is bumping along the tracks in pursuit of the
caddy.
POLICE
(jiteery on loudspeaker) |
Pull over to the side! This is the
police.
INT. THE CADILLAC - SAME TIME
Gus rolis down his window.
cus
Gitcery, yelling out
window)
Hey, we're talking, here!
Ralph looks out and points.
(CONTINUED)
3
74
75
16
”
CONTINUED:
Phil and Gus look up the track and see the headlight of an
oncoming train. Ralph is the last to notice. His eyes go wide
as the engine looms in front of them.
EXT. RAILROAD TRACKS - SAME TIME
Phil pulls che Cadillac off the tracks just in time to avoid the
collisión with the speeding train. The police, car pulls off che
Sther side of che tracks and gets blocked by the passing train
as Phil races off up another street.
EXT. THE STREET - SAME TIME
Two more police cars appear and block the intersection ahead.
am.
THE CADILLAC - SAME TIME 76
PHIL
1 don't want to live by their rules
anymore.
RALPH
1 noticed that.
PHIL
(to Gus)
I mean, why should 1,
cus
(shrugs)
Ze isn't my car.
ht, Gus?
INT, THE CADILLAC - PHIL'S POV - SAME TIME 7
The two police cars with lights flashing are parked sideways,
completely blocking the road. Officere stand in the roadway,
motioning for Phil to stop. Phil sees the roadblock ahead.
PRI
You make choices, you live with
them.
sus
0.5.2.
‘RALPH
Amen.
Phil tromps the gas pedal to the floor
74
75
16
”
CONTINUED:
Phil and Gus look up the track and see the headlight of an
oncoming train. Ralph is the last to notice. His eyes go wide
as the engine looms in front of them.
EXT. RAILROAD TRACKS - SAME TIME
Phil pulls che Cadillac off the tracks just in time to avoid the
collisión with the speeding train. The police, car pulls off che
Sther side of che tracks and gets blocked by the passing train
as Phil races off up another street.
EXT. THE STREET - SAME TIME
Two more police cars appear and block the intersection ahead.
am.
THE CADILLAC - SAME TIME 76
PHIL
1 don't want to live by their rules
anymore.
RALPH
1 noticed that.
PHIL
(to Gus)
I mean, why should 1,
cus
(shrugs)
Ze isn't my car.
ht, Gus?
INT, THE CADILLAC - PHIL'S POV - SAME TIME 7
The two police cars with lights flashing are parked sideways,
completely blocking the road. Officere stand in the roadway,
motioning for Phil to stop. Phil sees the roadblock ahead.
PRI
You make choices, you live with
them.
sus
0.5.2.
‘RALPH
Amen.
Phil tromps the gas pedal to the floor
7e
7
eo
a
ised Yellow 3
-53-
EXT. THE STREET - SAME TIME
The police dive out of the way as the Cadillac crashes broadside
into one of the police cars.
Folicenen race over to the wrackage of the Cadillac.
INT. THE CADILLAC - SAME TIME
Phil, Gus and Ralph are sitting there stunred, still belted in
and apparently not seriously hurt.
PHIL
Just let me do the talking.
cur zo:
INT. A JAIL CELL - NIGHT
‘The cell door slams shut on Phil. He lies down on the small
Bunk and closes his ey
INT. PHIL*S ROOM - DAWN
CLOSE UP - CLOCK
The time changes from 5:59 to 6:00. The radio starts playing *
Set You, Babe.”
Phil sits up suddenty and looks around, completely amazed. He
is in his room at the bed and breakfast, everything exactiy the
same as before. He hops out of bed. The music ende and the two
deejays come en
DEEIAY. 5;
Okay, campers, tise and shine, and
don't forget your booties because
{e's COOOLD out there today.
Phil talks out loud along with them.
PHIL AND SIDEKICK
It's cold out there everyday.
hat is this-- Miami Beach?
The deejays laugh. Phil laughs, too, exhilirated at having
survived the car wreck, still very confused and perplexed, but
just beginning to see the possibilities of his unique situation
He starts dressing in a nurry.
cur zo
8
80
7
eo
a
ised Yellow 3
-53-
EXT. THE STREET - SAME TIME
The police dive out of the way as the Cadillac crashes broadside
into one of the police cars.
Folicenen race over to the wrackage of the Cadillac.
INT. THE CADILLAC - SAME TIME
Phil, Gus and Ralph are sitting there stunred, still belted in
and apparently not seriously hurt.
PHIL
Just let me do the talking.
cur zo:
INT. A JAIL CELL - NIGHT
‘The cell door slams shut on Phil. He lies down on the small
Bunk and closes his ey
INT. PHIL*S ROOM - DAWN
CLOSE UP - CLOCK
The time changes from 5:59 to 6:00. The radio starts playing *
Set You, Babe.”
Phil sits up suddenty and looks around, completely amazed. He
is in his room at the bed and breakfast, everything exactiy the
same as before. He hops out of bed. The music ende and the two
deejays come en
DEEIAY. 5;
Okay, campers, tise and shine, and
don't forget your booties because
{e's COOOLD out there today.
Phil talks out loud along with them.
PHIL AND SIDEKICK
It's cold out there everyday.
hat is this-- Miami Beach?
The deejays laugh. Phil laughs, too, exhilirated at having
survived the car wreck, still very confused and perplexed, but
just beginning to see the possibilities of his unique situation
He starts dressing in a nurry.
cur zo
8
80
82
-54-
INT. 8
EAKFAST ROOM - LATER
Phil rushes into the breakfast room just as Mrs. Lancaster cones
Qu? of the kitchen with the coffee. Everything is exactly the
Same as before,
MAS. LANCASTER
Did you sleep
Phil interrupts, answering all her questions before she even
asks them.
PHIL
Slept like a baby, thank you.
MRS. LANCASTER
on. Would you ==
PHIL
Love some coffe
MRS. LANCASTER
Good. = nope--
PHIL
Flurries moving in later, but the
blizzard hits just outside of tow.
Mrs. Lancaster, has anyone been
around here looking for me this
morning? Maybe a State official,
blue coat, hat, gun, nightstick
MRS. LANCASTER
(shocked)
No, no one like that. Will there
be
PHIL
Apparently not.
He starts to exit.
MRS. LANCASTER
On, Mr. Connors, will you be--
PHIL
Staying an extra day-- absolutely!
Phil gooses her, grabs a sweet roll, and heads for the door,
starting to believe now that he can truly do anything he wants
to.
cur To:
-54-
INT. 8
EAKFAST ROOM - LATER
Phil rushes into the breakfast room just as Mrs. Lancaster cones
Qu? of the kitchen with the coffee. Everything is exactly the
Same as before,
MAS. LANCASTER
Did you sleep
Phil interrupts, answering all her questions before she even
asks them.
PHIL
Slept like a baby, thank you.
MRS. LANCASTER
on. Would you ==
PHIL
Love some coffe
MRS. LANCASTER
Good. = nope--
PHIL
Flurries moving in later, but the
blizzard hits just outside of tow.
Mrs. Lancaster, has anyone been
around here looking for me this
morning? Maybe a State official,
blue coat, hat, gun, nightstick
MRS. LANCASTER
(shocked)
No, no one like that. Will there
be
PHIL
Apparently not.
He starts to exit.
MRS. LANCASTER
On, Mr. Connors, will you be--
PHIL
Staying an extra day-- absolutely!
Phil gooses her, grabs a sweet roll, and heads for the door,
starting to believe now that he can truly do anything he wants
to.
cur To:
TOWN SQUARE - MOMENTS LA
passes the eld bum, ignoring him as usual.
NED (0.C.)
Hey, Phil!
Phil slips off his glove as Ned Ryerson lumbers toward him.
NED
Phil! Phil Connors!
Before Ned can say another word, Phil SLUGS HIM. Ned goes down
Phil puts his glove back on and keeps walking.
Ensl deftly ayoids the slushy pothole he stepped in before. A
PEDESTRZ ing behind him steps right into it.
cur 70:
INT. DINER - LATER THAT MORNING es
Phil is sitting at his usual table, which is covered with an
incredible variety of rich focds-- eggs, bacon, sausage,
Pancakes, pies, cakes, eclairs, ice Cream, puddings, etc
Rita sits across from him, watching in amazement as he stuffs
himself with pastry.
RITA
1 like to see a man of advancing
years throwing caution to the wind.
iets inspiring in a way.
ren ry st £
hy years, are fot aGvancing as fast
EAS
Phil pulls out a pack of cigarettes.
RITA
Don't you worry about cholesterol,
lung cancer-- love handles?
Phil chuckles and shakes his head at each of these suggestions.
He takes à cigarette and lights it
PRL
2 don't worry about a:
anyme:
ching
(CONTINUED)
passes the eld bum, ignoring him as usual.
NED (0.C.)
Hey, Phil!
Phil slips off his glove as Ned Ryerson lumbers toward him.
NED
Phil! Phil Connors!
Before Ned can say another word, Phil SLUGS HIM. Ned goes down
Phil puts his glove back on and keeps walking.
Ensl deftly ayoids the slushy pothole he stepped in before. A
PEDESTRZ ing behind him steps right into it.
cur 70:
INT. DINER - LATER THAT MORNING es
Phil is sitting at his usual table, which is covered with an
incredible variety of rich focds-- eggs, bacon, sausage,
Pancakes, pies, cakes, eclairs, ice Cream, puddings, etc
Rita sits across from him, watching in amazement as he stuffs
himself with pastry.
RITA
1 like to see a man of advancing
years throwing caution to the wind.
iets inspiring in a way.
ren ry st £
hy years, are fot aGvancing as fast
EAS
Phil pulls out a pack of cigarettes.
RITA
Don't you worry about cholesterol,
lung cancer-- love handles?
Phil chuckles and shakes his head at each of these suggestions.
He takes à cigarette and lights it
PRL
2 don't worry about a:
anyme:
ching
(CONTINUED)
Revased Yellow 3/17/92
84 CONTINUED:
RITA
What makes you so special?
Everybody worries about something.
PEIL
That's exactly what makes me so
special. J don’t even have to
Moss.
He takes a big bite of cake. Rita shakes her head.
PEL
(with his mouth full)
What?
RITA
“The wretch, concentered all in self,
Living, shall forfeit fair
and doubly dying, shall go
Eo the vile dust from whence
he sprung.
Unwept, unhonored, and
unsung." Sir Walter Scott.
Phil looks at her a for a moment, then starts laughing.
RITA
‘ike poetry?
PHIL
You think Tim acting like this
because I’m egocentric?
RITA
Of course you are, Phil. That's
your defining characteristic.
Doris approaches with the coffee pot. Without looking up, Phil
reaches out and turns Rita’s cup upside down. Doris shrugs and
continues on.
You don
Larry enters and finds them.
LARRY
We'd better get going if we're
going to stay ahead of the
weather.
‘Thanks, Larry.
Rita looks at the pile of food.
(CONTINUED)
84 CONTINUED:
RITA
What makes you so special?
Everybody worries about something.
PEIL
That's exactly what makes me so
special. J don’t even have to
Moss.
He takes a big bite of cake. Rita shakes her head.
PEL
(with his mouth full)
What?
RITA
“The wretch, concentered all in self,
Living, shall forfeit fair
and doubly dying, shall go
Eo the vile dust from whence
he sprung.
Unwept, unhonored, and
unsung." Sir Walter Scott.
Phil looks at her a for a moment, then starts laughing.
RITA
‘ike poetry?
PHIL
You think Tim acting like this
because I’m egocentric?
RITA
Of course you are, Phil. That's
your defining characteristic.
Doris approaches with the coffee pot. Without looking up, Phil
reaches out and turns Rita’s cup upside down. Doris shrugs and
continues on.
You don
Larry enters and finds them.
LARRY
We'd better get going if we're
going to stay ahead of the
weather.
‘Thanks, Larry.
Rita looks at the pile of food.
(CONTINUED)
86 CONTINUED: és
RITA
(to Phil)
You want a doggie bag?
PRI
No, you go on ahead. I'm staying.
RITA
Why? 1 thought you hated this tow.
PEEL,
1 did, but I'm just starting to
appreciace it.
25 INT, DINER - A LITTLE LATER
Phil is just leaving when he notices NANCY, the girl he cried to
pick up at the hotel bar, and stops to talk to her.
EL
Hi. You see the groundhog thi
morning?
NANCY
(sweetly)
‘Tnever miss ic.
PRIL
What's your name?
She gives hima look. It's cbvious she's never seen him before.
NANCY
Nancy Taylor. And you are--?
FEI
Where'd you go to high school?
Nancy
what?
REIL.
High school?
She really doesn't know what to make of Phil but she decides to
Play along.
Nancy 0
Lincoln High school. In Pittsburgh.
Who are you?
(CONTINJED)
RITA
(to Phil)
You want a doggie bag?
PRI
No, you go on ahead. I'm staying.
RITA
Why? 1 thought you hated this tow.
PEEL,
1 did, but I'm just starting to
appreciace it.
25 INT, DINER - A LITTLE LATER
Phil is just leaving when he notices NANCY, the girl he cried to
pick up at the hotel bar, and stops to talk to her.
EL
Hi. You see the groundhog thi
morning?
NANCY
(sweetly)
‘Tnever miss ic.
PRIL
What's your name?
She gives hima look. It's cbvious she's never seen him before.
NANCY
Nancy Taylor. And you are--?
FEI
Where'd you go to high school?
Nancy
what?
REIL.
High school?
She really doesn't know what to make of Phil but she decides to
Play along.
Nancy 0
Lincoln High school. In Pittsburgh.
Who are you?
(CONTINJED)
-58-
85 CONTINUED:
PHIL
Who was your twelfth grade English
teacher?
NANCY
Are you kidding?
PERIL
Im waiting.
y
Mes. Walsh.
PERIL
Okay. Nancy,
you very much.
coln, Walsh. Thank
Phil exits jauntily.
ey! Whar--
BS EXT. GOBBLER'S KNOB - NEXT MORNING es
je crowd and finds Nancy
Fhil comes through ting for the
ceremony to begin
FEIL
Nancy?
Nancy turns and looks at him quizzically.
PRIL
Nancy, right?
NANCY
I’m sorry, =
PHIL
Nancy Taylor? Lincoln High? 1 sat
ext to you in MiS, Walsh's English
class.
That
Phil Conse:
NaNcy
--is amazing!
85 CONTINUED:
PHIL
Who was your twelfth grade English
teacher?
NANCY
Are you kidding?
PERIL
Im waiting.
y
Mes. Walsh.
PERIL
Okay. Nancy,
you very much.
coln, Walsh. Thank
Phil exits jauntily.
ey! Whar--
BS EXT. GOBBLER'S KNOB - NEXT MORNING es
je crowd and finds Nancy
Fhil comes through ting for the
ceremony to begin
FEIL
Nancy?
Nancy turns and looks at him quizzically.
PRIL
Nancy, right?
NANCY
I’m sorry, =
PHIL
Nancy Taylor? Lincoln High? 1 sat
ext to you in MiS, Walsh's English
class.
That
Phil Conse:
NaNcy
--is amazing!
PHIL
You don't remember me, do you?
nancy
1 don't-- sure, I think--
PEIL
We used to shoot spit balls.
Nancy
Yeah, oh, God--
PHIL
I even asked you to the prom
Nancy
Phi} Connors.
PHIL
Yeah
How ARE you’
PHIL
great. Wow, you look terrific.
Hey. listen, 1 gotta do this report-
nancy
You're a reporter?
PHIL
Weatherman. Channel 9, Pittsburgh.
NANCY,
Right, 1 should've known:
PHIL
But maybe after we coul
NANCY,
Yeah, yeah, 114 like that--
The crowd starts chanting: “Phil, Phil,
INT. BHIL'S ROOM - NIGHT
The rom is dark, | Two figures grope on the sofa. sälhoustted
Ke 1ignesbulb ana celiophane fire in
(CONTINUED)
You don't remember me, do you?
nancy
1 don't-- sure, I think--
PEIL
We used to shoot spit balls.
Nancy
Yeah, oh, God--
PHIL
I even asked you to the prom
Nancy
Phi} Connors.
PHIL
Yeah
How ARE you’
PHIL
great. Wow, you look terrific.
Hey. listen, 1 gotta do this report-
nancy
You're a reporter?
PHIL
Weatherman. Channel 9, Pittsburgh.
NANCY,
Right, 1 should've known:
PHIL
But maybe after we coul
NANCY,
Yeah, yeah, 114 like that--
The crowd starts chanting: “Phil, Phil,
INT. BHIL'S ROOM - NIGHT
The rom is dark, | Two figures grope on the sofa. sälhoustted
Ke 1ignesbulb ana celiophane fire in
(CONTINUED)
-50-
87 CONTINUED:
NANCY
(moans)
on, Phil.
PEIL
Oh, Rita.
Nancy suddenly freezes. There is a moment of silence, chen she
Snape on the Light. Her sweater is askew, half pulled up over
a
NANCY
Who's Rita? Hey:
one night stand?
PEIL
One night stand! Just the opposite.
love you, Nancy. T've always.
Toved you.” 3 know this is kind of
sudden, bit 2 want you to be my
is this just a
NANCY
on, Phil!
She throws her arms
Phil res:
und him and kisses him passionately.
es over Behind her back and clicks off the Light.
cur 10:
88 EXT, TON SQUARE - DAY es
Pht is sitting on a low concrete fence, watching,
senses
PHIL
Gust of wind.
He looks at the branch of a tree blowing in a gust of wind.
PHIL,
Dog barks.
A dog barks.
PHIL,
Okay, cue the truck.
an armored car pulls up to the bank across the street. Two
Farniess looking old GUARDS ger cut of the truck.
(CONTINUED)
87 CONTINUED:
NANCY
(moans)
on, Phil.
PEIL
Oh, Rita.
Nancy suddenly freezes. There is a moment of silence, chen she
Snape on the Light. Her sweater is askew, half pulled up over
a
NANCY
Who's Rita? Hey:
one night stand?
PEIL
One night stand! Just the opposite.
love you, Nancy. T've always.
Toved you.” 3 know this is kind of
sudden, bit 2 want you to be my
is this just a
NANCY
on, Phil!
She throws her arms
Phil res:
und him and kisses him passionately.
es over Behind her back and clicks off the Light.
cur 10:
88 EXT, TON SQUARE - DAY es
Pht is sitting on a low concrete fence, watching,
senses
PHIL
Gust of wind.
He looks at the branch of a tree blowing in a gust of wind.
PHIL,
Dog barks.
A dog barks.
PHIL,
Okay, cue the truck.
an armored car pulls up to the bank across the street. Two
Farniess looking old GUARDS ger cut of the truck.
(CONTINUED)
ee
A
PRI
Okay, Herman Johannsen, into the
bank, Felix Langer waits outside
HERMAN goes into the bank. FELIX goes around to the ba:
truck, unlocks the door and opens it.
PHIL,
Enter Doris. Bra strap.
of the
Doris, the waitress, pushes up her bra strap and approaches
Felix. “Phil quietly Speaks their dialogue as their mouths move
PEEL
(for Doris)
Felix! .
(tor Felix)
Hey, how you doin",
{for Doris)
Trouble you for a roll of quarters?
(for himself)
cue Herma:
Herman comes out carrying two large satchels of cash. He nods
nis greeting to Doris.
Phil begins slowly walking across the street toward them.
PHIL
(looking at his watch)
Ten, nine, eight, car--
At “car” he pauses a split second without even looking up as a
Ser Passes ih front of him, ‘then continues without missing à
six, quarter
Ac "quarter,* Felix drops a quarter out of a sack full of
change. Herman sets down the bags of cash on the tailgate of
the truck. Phil is still calmly counting and walking toward the
money.
PHIL
three, two --
Felix and Doris both follow the rolling quarter, and Hernan
turns away for a split second to watch then. In one swift move,
Phil takes one final step towards them, snatches a bag of money,
and disappears behind the truck.
(CONTINUED)
A
PRI
Okay, Herman Johannsen, into the
bank, Felix Langer waits outside
HERMAN goes into the bank. FELIX goes around to the ba:
truck, unlocks the door and opens it.
PHIL,
Enter Doris. Bra strap.
of the
Doris, the waitress, pushes up her bra strap and approaches
Felix. “Phil quietly Speaks their dialogue as their mouths move
PEEL
(for Doris)
Felix! .
(tor Felix)
Hey, how you doin",
{for Doris)
Trouble you for a roll of quarters?
(for himself)
cue Herma:
Herman comes out carrying two large satchels of cash. He nods
nis greeting to Doris.
Phil begins slowly walking across the street toward them.
PHIL
(looking at his watch)
Ten, nine, eight, car--
At “car” he pauses a split second without even looking up as a
Ser Passes ih front of him, ‘then continues without missing à
six, quarter
Ac "quarter,* Felix drops a quarter out of a sack full of
change. Herman sets down the bags of cash on the tailgate of
the truck. Phil is still calmly counting and walking toward the
money.
PHIL
three, two --
Felix and Doris both follow the rolling quarter, and Hernan
turns away for a split second to watch then. In one swift move,
Phil takes one final step towards them, snatches a bag of money,
and disappears behind the truck.
(CONTINUED)
Revised Pink 3/13/92
CONTINUED: si
Ar that instant, Herman looks back to he left the moneybags and
slowly begins to realize that one is missing. He looks around
in confusion. Nobody in sight.
cur 10:
EXT. USED CAR DEALERSHIP - DAY ES
Phil pats the hood of a classic Mercedes sedan as a SALESMAN
stands by beaming.
SALESMAN
A real beauty, huh. We picked it
up at a--
PHIL
1'11 take it. How much?
SALESMAN
Well, the sticker says $22,999 but
if you want-
PHIL
1:11 cell you what, 1'11 give you
$30,000 i€ you just knock off the
Salgsman stuff and let me get out
of here with my car.
The Salesman gawks as Phil opens a moneybag and starts counting
out stacks of bilis.
cur 70:
EXT. PUNXSUTAMNEY - DAY sc
We see the Mercedes sedan tooling around the square. Phil calls
gut Greetings to the people he knows, none of whom Seem to know
im.
PHIL
Hey, Nancy! How's it going?
Nancy can't figure out who he is.
doesn’t even
He passes Ned Ryerson. 3
PRIL E
Ned! Ned Ryerson! 1 thought :
that was you!
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: si
Ar that instant, Herman looks back to he left the moneybags and
slowly begins to realize that one is missing. He looks around
in confusion. Nobody in sight.
cur 10:
EXT. USED CAR DEALERSHIP - DAY ES
Phil pats the hood of a classic Mercedes sedan as a SALESMAN
stands by beaming.
SALESMAN
A real beauty, huh. We picked it
up at a--
PHIL
1'11 take it. How much?
SALESMAN
Well, the sticker says $22,999 but
if you want-
PHIL
1:11 cell you what, 1'11 give you
$30,000 i€ you just knock off the
Salgsman stuff and let me get out
of here with my car.
The Salesman gawks as Phil opens a moneybag and starts counting
out stacks of bilis.
cur 70:
EXT. PUNXSUTAMNEY - DAY sc
We see the Mercedes sedan tooling around the square. Phil calls
gut Greetings to the people he knows, none of whom Seem to know
im.
PHIL
Hey, Nancy! How's it going?
Nancy can't figure out who he is.
doesn’t even
He passes Ned Ryerson. 3
PRIL E
Ned! Ned Ryerson! 1 thought :
that was you!
(CONTINUED)
90
9
Revised Yellow 2/17/92
-63-
CONTINUED:
NED
Phil! Phil Connors!
PHIL,
BING!
Phil continues eruising.
PHIL
Hey, Bruno!
We hear an off-camera “Woof!*
INT. PHIL'S ROOM - DAY
Phil takes out a suit and holds it up. Me’s been wearing this
suit almost every day. He pulls the Second suit out of the bag.
He's been wearing this one every other day. He looks from one
suit to the next and shakes his head.
cur mo:
EXT. MAIN STREET - NIGHT
‘The Mercedes sedan comes to a stop right in front of the movie
theater and the door opens
A pair of really elaborate cowboy boots complete with silver
‘Spurs hits the pavement first, then we PAN UP to see Phil emerge
from the car wearing a really gaudy, full cowboy outfit with
real six-guns on his hips. A Very trashy-looking girl, LARAINE,
gets out on the passenger side, dressed like a French maid,
LARAINE
(very ‘se1f-conscious)
1 thought we were going to a
costume party.
PHIL
No, let's go to the movie
You'll love it. I've seen it a
hundred times.
LARAINE
(protests)
Phil
IL,
1 told you-- call me “Bronco.”
9
Revised Yellow 2/17/92
-63-
CONTINUED:
NED
Phil! Phil Connors!
PHIL,
BING!
Phil continues eruising.
PHIL
Hey, Bruno!
We hear an off-camera “Woof!*
INT. PHIL'S ROOM - DAY
Phil takes out a suit and holds it up. Me’s been wearing this
suit almost every day. He pulls the Second suit out of the bag.
He's been wearing this one every other day. He looks from one
suit to the next and shakes his head.
cur mo:
EXT. MAIN STREET - NIGHT
‘The Mercedes sedan comes to a stop right in front of the movie
theater and the door opens
A pair of really elaborate cowboy boots complete with silver
‘Spurs hits the pavement first, then we PAN UP to see Phil emerge
from the car wearing a really gaudy, full cowboy outfit with
real six-guns on his hips. A Very trashy-looking girl, LARAINE,
gets out on the passenger side, dressed like a French maid,
LARAINE
(very ‘se1f-conscious)
1 thought we were going to a
costume party.
PHIL
No, let's go to the movie
You'll love it. I've seen it a
hundred times.
LARAINE
(protests)
Phil
IL,
1 told you-- call me “Bronco.”
92
93
34
95
Revised Buff 4,3079
-64-
CONTINUE!
He escorte her into the theater.
cur zo:
OMITTED
cur 70:
OMITTED
cur 10:
INT. PHIL'S ROOM - NIGHT
There ie a very wild party in pri
everyone from College kids and bs
que revelers include
Bruno the German shepherd runs into the scene, barking at the
activity. Then Bruno runs over to Phil who's just sitting on
the sofa staring at the fake fire. He’s wearing a really loud
Sportshirt, a number of gold neck chains and rings on every
finger. On his lap is a whole chocolate cake which he is
absentiy eating with his fingers. À very trashy looking girl
famed ANGIE ip vooceight jeans and halter top a8 coming on to
him, practically licking his ears.
PHIL
(more to himself than to
Angie)
Eventually you'd just get tired of
Screwing around and then you'd
want a real relationship, wouldn't
you?
ANGIE
1 don't know.
PHIL
Someone decent, right? Someone
you respect, who respects you.
ANGIE
1 guess so.
PHIL
(still musing)
It's tough to find a relationship
Like that, especially if your tine
is kind of limited. But you still
have to try, don't you?
(CONTINUED)
%
93
34
95
Revised Buff 4,3079
-64-
CONTINUE!
He escorte her into the theater.
cur zo:
OMITTED
cur 70:
OMITTED
cur 10:
INT. PHIL'S ROOM - NIGHT
There ie a very wild party in pri
everyone from College kids and bs
que revelers include
Bruno the German shepherd runs into the scene, barking at the
activity. Then Bruno runs over to Phil who's just sitting on
the sofa staring at the fake fire. He’s wearing a really loud
Sportshirt, a number of gold neck chains and rings on every
finger. On his lap is a whole chocolate cake which he is
absentiy eating with his fingers. À very trashy looking girl
famed ANGIE ip vooceight jeans and halter top a8 coming on to
him, practically licking his ears.
PHIL
(more to himself than to
Angie)
Eventually you'd just get tired of
Screwing around and then you'd
want a real relationship, wouldn't
you?
ANGIE
1 don't know.
PHIL
Someone decent, right? Someone
you respect, who respects you.
ANGIE
1 guess so.
PHIL
(still musing)
It's tough to find a relationship
Like that, especially if your tine
is kind of limited. But you still
have to try, don't you?
(CONTINUED)
%
Revised Bust 47307
-65-
CONTINUED: .s
Phil looks over at Angie who's passed out on the sofa with her
‚mouth open. 1
The science teacher Phil consulted earlier comes up to him with
Nancy and Laraine in tow.
SCIENCE TEACHER .
Nancy, Laraine? Have you met Phil a
Connors? :
NANCY
No, I don’t think so.
LARAINE
Hi, nice to meet you. .
Phil sighs, too tired to even go through, the notions, Bruno
starts eating the chocolate cake in his lap.
cur 10:
EXT. TOWN SQUARE - THE NEXT MORNING 96
Rita is in the news van reviewing the tape of Phil's report.
Phil hovers at the open side door.
RITA
You look good. I mean, it came
out all right. How'd you know
where the groundhos was going?
hunch. Rita, if you only
Just a hunch Rita, if you
Had one day to live, what would
you do with ie?
She ‘switches off the videotape and steps out of the van.
RITA
1 don't know, Phil. What are you
dying of?
PHIL
No, I mean like what if the entire
world was about to explode?
RITA
1:4 just want to know where to put
the camera. What are you looking
for, “Paii-- a date for the
weekend?
She starts walking toward che diner. Phil sticks right with
-65-
CONTINUED: .s
Phil looks over at Angie who's passed out on the sofa with her
‚mouth open. 1
The science teacher Phil consulted earlier comes up to him with
Nancy and Laraine in tow.
SCIENCE TEACHER .
Nancy, Laraine? Have you met Phil a
Connors? :
NANCY
No, I don’t think so.
LARAINE
Hi, nice to meet you. .
Phil sighs, too tired to even go through, the notions, Bruno
starts eating the chocolate cake in his lap.
cur 10:
EXT. TOWN SQUARE - THE NEXT MORNING 96
Rita is in the news van reviewing the tape of Phil's report.
Phil hovers at the open side door.
RITA
You look good. I mean, it came
out all right. How'd you know
where the groundhos was going?
hunch. Rita, if you only
Just a hunch Rita, if you
Had one day to live, what would
you do with ie?
She ‘switches off the videotape and steps out of the van.
RITA
1 don't know, Phil. What are you
dying of?
PHIL
No, I mean like what if the entire
world was about to explode?
RITA
1:4 just want to know where to put
the camera. What are you looking
for, “Paii-- a date for the
weekend?
She starts walking toward che diner. Phil sticks right with
Revised Yellow 3/17/92
ses
96 CONTINUED:
PHIL
No, I just want to know you
better. What do you like, what do
you want, what do you think about,
what kind of men are you
interested in, what do you do for
fun?
RITA
(she stops) . o
Is this real or are you just going E
to make a fool out of me? .
PHIL
I'm just trying to talk to you
like a normal person, Isn't this
how normal people talk?
RITA
close.
PHIL
Okay, so talk to me, C'mon, 1'11
buy vou a cup of colt
cor 10:
37 INT. DINER - A LITTLE LATER am
Phil and Rita are at their usual table, drinking coffee.
RITA
1 guesa I want what everybody
wants-- you know, career, love,
marriage, children.
PHIL
You seeing anybody?
is RITA a
This is getting too personal. 1
don't think I'm ready co discuss
these things with you, What about
You? What do you want?
PHL
What 1 really want is someone like
(CONTINUED)
ses
96 CONTINUED:
PHIL
No, I just want to know you
better. What do you like, what do
you want, what do you think about,
what kind of men are you
interested in, what do you do for
fun?
RITA
(she stops) . o
Is this real or are you just going E
to make a fool out of me? .
PHIL
I'm just trying to talk to you
like a normal person, Isn't this
how normal people talk?
RITA
close.
PHIL
Okay, so talk to me, C'mon, 1'11
buy vou a cup of colt
cor 10:
37 INT. DINER - A LITTLE LATER am
Phil and Rita are at their usual table, drinking coffee.
RITA
1 guesa I want what everybody
wants-- you know, career, love,
marriage, children.
PHIL
You seeing anybody?
is RITA a
This is getting too personal. 1
don't think I'm ready co discuss
these things with you, What about
You? What do you want?
PHL
What 1 really want is someone like
(CONTINUED)
Revised Yellow
cer
97 — CONTINUED:
PHIL,
Why not? What are you looking
for? Who's your perfect guy?
RITA
Well. First of all, hess too
hunbie to know he’s perfect.
PHIL
that's me.
RITA x
He's intelligent, supportive,
funny’.
PHIL
Intelligent, supportive, funny. *
Me, me, me. :
RITA
(ehinking)
He's romantic and courageous.
PEEL
Me, me also.
RITA
He has a good body but he doesn’t
have to look in the mirror every
two minutes.
PEEL
1 have a great body and I never
look at it.
RITA
He's kind and sensitive and gentle
and considerate. And he’s not
afraid to ery in front of me.
PHIL
This is a man we're talking about,
sight?
RITA
He likes animals and children and
he doesn't mind changing poopy
diepers.
PHIL
Okay, but does he have to say
“poopy?*
(CONTINUED)
cer
97 — CONTINUED:
PHIL,
Why not? What are you looking
for? Who's your perfect guy?
RITA
Well. First of all, hess too
hunbie to know he’s perfect.
PHIL
that's me.
RITA x
He's intelligent, supportive,
funny’.
PHIL
Intelligent, supportive, funny. *
Me, me, me. :
RITA
(ehinking)
He's romantic and courageous.
PEEL
Me, me also.
RITA
He has a good body but he doesn’t
have to look in the mirror every
two minutes.
PEEL
1 have a great body and I never
look at it.
RITA
He's kind and sensitive and gentle
and considerate. And he’s not
afraid to ery in front of me.
PHIL
This is a man we're talking about,
sight?
RITA
He likes animals and children and
he doesn't mind changing poopy
diepers.
PHIL
Okay, but does he have to say
“poopy?*
(CONTINUED)
Revised
-67a-
37 CONTINUED:
RITA
on, and he plays an instrument end
Joves his mother.
PHIL
1 hate this guy.
cur 70:
Yellow 3/17/92
-67a-
37 CONTINUED:
RITA
on, and he plays an instrument end
Joves his mother.
PHIL
1 hate this guy.
cur 70:
Yellow 3/17/92
Revised Blue 3/7792
260.
98 EXT. THE NEWS VAN - ANOTHER DAY
Phil has the hood open and is doing something to the engine.
cur To:
99 INT, HOTEL BAR - LATER
Rita is eitting at the bar in the Pennsylvanian Hotel. Phil
enters and sits down next to her.
PHIL
So what are the chances of getting
out of here today?
RITA
(glum)
The van still won't start.
Larry's working on it.
PRED,
(innccent) |
Wouldn't you know it. Buy you a
drink?
RITA
Okay.
PHIL
{co the bartender}
Jack Daniels.
‘BARTENDER,
For you, miss?
RITA
Cempari and soda, please, with a
slice of orange.
Phil nods to hinself.
cur 70:
100 SAME SCENE - ANOTHER DAY
Phil walks in and sits next co Rita.
PHIL
So what are the chances of getting
out of here today?
RITA
(glum)
The van still won't start.
Larry's working on it.
(CONTINUED)
99
100
260.
98 EXT. THE NEWS VAN - ANOTHER DAY
Phil has the hood open and is doing something to the engine.
cur To:
99 INT, HOTEL BAR - LATER
Rita is eitting at the bar in the Pennsylvanian Hotel. Phil
enters and sits down next to her.
PHIL
So what are the chances of getting
out of here today?
RITA
(glum)
The van still won't start.
Larry's working on it.
PRED,
(innccent) |
Wouldn't you know it. Buy you a
drink?
RITA
Okay.
PHIL
{co the bartender}
Jack Daniels.
‘BARTENDER,
For you, miss?
RITA
Cempari and soda, please, with a
slice of orange.
Phil nods to hinself.
cur 70:
100 SAME SCENE - ANOTHER DAY
Phil walks in and sits next co Rita.
PHIL
So what are the chances of getting
out of here today?
RITA
(glum)
The van still won't start.
Larry's working on it.
(CONTINUED)
99
100
100
101
-69-
CONTINUED:
PHIL
Wouldn't you know it. Buy you a
drink?
RITA
Okay.
PHIL
{to the bartender)
Campari and soda, with a slice of
orange, please.
Rita looks at Phil, surprised.
BARTENDER
For you miss?
RITA
Same for me, please.
Tae BARTENDER pours.
RITA
That's my favorite dr
ink?
RITA
Rita stares for a moment.
RITA
1 always drink to world peace.
cur 70:
SAME SCENE - ANOTHER DAY
‘BARTENDER
Take your order?
PRIL
Campari and soda with a slice of
orange, please
looks at Phil.
(CONTINUED)
101
-69-
CONTINUED:
PHIL
Wouldn't you know it. Buy you a
drink?
RITA
Okay.
PHIL
{to the bartender)
Campari and soda, with a slice of
orange, please.
Rita looks at Phil, surprised.
BARTENDER
For you miss?
RITA
Same for me, please.
Tae BARTENDER pours.
RITA
That's my favorite dr
ink?
RITA
Rita stares for a moment.
RITA
1 always drink to world peace.
cur 70:
SAME SCENE - ANOTHER DAY
‘BARTENDER
Take your order?
PRIL
Campari and soda with a slice of
orange, please
looks at Phil.
(CONTINUED)
Revised Yellow 3/17/92
-70-
101 CONTINUED:
BARTENDER,
For you, miss?
RITA
Same for me, please.
The BARTENDER pours.
RITA
That's my favorite drink.
PEIL
Mine, too.
(he lifts his glass)
Would you mind drinking to world
peace?
Rita smiles, re-evaluating him.
RITA
To world peace.
They clink glasses.
PHIL
To world peace.
102 INT. FUDGE SHOP - DAY 102
Phil and Rita are sitting at a table in a small confectionery.
tasting chunks of different flavored fudge. Rita takes a bite.
RITA
This is terrific.
PHIL
Best fudge in tom.
RITA
How do you know so much about
Punxsutamey?
PHIL
I Like small towns. I think they
engender real community more
big cities.
RITA
That is so true! I've always
thought that, coo.
(CONTINUED)
-70-
101 CONTINUED:
BARTENDER,
For you, miss?
RITA
Same for me, please.
The BARTENDER pours.
RITA
That's my favorite drink.
PEIL
Mine, too.
(he lifts his glass)
Would you mind drinking to world
peace?
Rita smiles, re-evaluating him.
RITA
To world peace.
They clink glasses.
PHIL
To world peace.
102 INT. FUDGE SHOP - DAY 102
Phil and Rita are sitting at a table in a small confectionery.
tasting chunks of different flavored fudge. Rita takes a bite.
RITA
This is terrific.
PHIL
Best fudge in tom.
RITA
How do you know so much about
Punxsutamey?
PHIL
I Like small towns. I think they
engender real community more
big cities.
RITA
That is so true! I've always
thought that, coo.
(CONTINUED)
102
103
Revised Yellow 3/17/92
ne
CONTINUED:
PEIL
No kidding, Here-- try the white
chocolate:
RITA
Oh, yuk, don't make me sick.
PHIL
(making mental note)
No white chocolate.
RITA
‘There's something so familiar
about this. Do you ever have deja
PEL
All the time.
Larry enters.
LARRY
(irate)
I don't believe it. Some horse’s +
ass bought every distributor car :
in this tom, We're going to be E
Stuck here ail night: I'm goin 4
down the street to try and stea. x
one. Wish me luck. :
Phil shrugs resignedly.
cur 10:
INT. BERGHOF RESTAURANT - NIGHT 103
Rita and Phil are now sitting together at a table in the town’s
best restaurant, a good chophouse with Black Forest decor and
waitresses in dirndl skirts and aprons, They’re sharing a good
dinner and a bottle of white wine
hink people »
1 think people worry too muel
about thelr careers.
RITA
I agree. T just try to go wien
the flou-- see where it leads me.
pnzu
And it led you here.
(CONTINUED)
103
Revised Yellow 3/17/92
ne
CONTINUED:
PEIL
No kidding, Here-- try the white
chocolate:
RITA
Oh, yuk, don't make me sick.
PHIL
(making mental note)
No white chocolate.
RITA
‘There's something so familiar
about this. Do you ever have deja
PEL
All the time.
Larry enters.
LARRY
(irate)
I don't believe it. Some horse’s +
ass bought every distributor car :
in this tom, We're going to be E
Stuck here ail night: I'm goin 4
down the street to try and stea. x
one. Wish me luck. :
Phil shrugs resignedly.
cur 10:
INT. BERGHOF RESTAURANT - NIGHT 103
Rita and Phil are now sitting together at a table in the town’s
best restaurant, a good chophouse with Black Forest decor and
waitresses in dirndl skirts and aprons, They’re sharing a good
dinner and a bottle of white wine
hink people »
1 think people worry too muel
about thelr careers.
RITA
I agree. T just try to go wien
the flou-- see where it leads me.
pnzu
And it led you here.
(CONTINUED)
Revised Yellow
ma
103 — CONTINUED:
RITA
Unchm. Of course it's about a
million miles from where 1 started
out in college.
PRIL
You weren't in broadcasting?
(CONTINUED)
ma
103 — CONTINUED:
RITA
Unchm. Of course it's about a
million miles from where 1 started
out in college.
PRIL
You weren't in broadcasting?
(CONTINUED)
RITA
At Bryn Mawr? No, uh-uh. Believe
or nor, 1 studied Nineteenth
Century French Poe=ry
PHIL
(laughs good-naturedly)
Really? What's waste of tii
looks offended. Phil knows he made a mistake.
cur mo:
104 SCENE - ANOTHER DAY
PHIL
You weren't in broadcasting?
RITA
Bryn Mawr? No, uh-uh. Believe
or not, 1 studied Nineteenth
sry French Poetry.
Een:
Phil leans in closer to her.
pr
Le fille quí j'aimers
Sera comme bon vin
Qui se bonifiera
Un peut ‘chaque matin.
ICS Belgian, net French, of course,
butt like it
Rita smiles, entranced. Over hez romantic look we hear
song, "1 Can't Get Started With You"
cur mo:
105 EXT. THE BANDSTAND - NIGHT
The music continues over Rita end Phil dancing close.
cur ro:
106 EXT. TOWN SQUARE - LATER THAT NIGHT
is a light snow falling. Phil and Rita are maki:
“zen, Somehow the tom looks magical tenigh
(CONTINUED)
the
ole
20
20
At Bryn Mawr? No, uh-uh. Believe
or nor, 1 studied Nineteenth
Century French Poe=ry
PHIL
(laughs good-naturedly)
Really? What's waste of tii
looks offended. Phil knows he made a mistake.
cur mo:
104 SCENE - ANOTHER DAY
PHIL
You weren't in broadcasting?
RITA
Bryn Mawr? No, uh-uh. Believe
or not, 1 studied Nineteenth
sry French Poetry.
Een:
Phil leans in closer to her.
pr
Le fille quí j'aimers
Sera comme bon vin
Qui se bonifiera
Un peut ‘chaque matin.
ICS Belgian, net French, of course,
butt like it
Rita smiles, entranced. Over hez romantic look we hear
song, "1 Can't Get Started With You"
cur mo:
105 EXT. THE BANDSTAND - NIGHT
The music continues over Rita end Phil dancing close.
cur ro:
106 EXT. TOWN SQUARE - LATER THAT NIGHT
is a light snow falling. Phil and Rita are maki:
“zen, Somehow the tom looks magical tenigh
(CONTINUED)
the
ole
20
20
106
Con
A snowball hits Phil in the back, Phil turns fo see a laughing
PEIL
(angry)
Hey, you little shit!
a is aghast.
cur 70:
SAME SCENE - ANOTHER NICHT sige
Phil and Rita are making the snowman agai: snowball hits
Phil in the back.
‘This time Phil turns to see the giggling kid and laughs, as if
enjoying the impertinence of youth. Phil packs a snowball and
oases it, The kid throws one back. Rita and Phil both,
ingo it. packing snowballs and getting into a war with t}
and his little gang of friends.
A snowball catches Rita off balance, she slips and goes down in
& snewbank. Phil bends down to help her and slips. They are
Row £09 lying in the snow, leughing. Their eyes lock for
moment, then Riza gets embarrassed and stands up
eur 70:
EXT. CHERRY STREET INN - NIGHT 108
RITA
I'm just amazed. And I'm not easily
anazed.
PHIL
About what?
RITA |
How you can start a day with one
kind of expectation and end up so
completely different.
PEEL
Do you Like how +
is day is curning
(CONTINUED)
Con
A snowball hits Phil in the back, Phil turns fo see a laughing
PEIL
(angry)
Hey, you little shit!
a is aghast.
cur 70:
SAME SCENE - ANOTHER NICHT sige
Phil and Rita are making the snowman agai: snowball hits
Phil in the back.
‘This time Phil turns to see the giggling kid and laughs, as if
enjoying the impertinence of youth. Phil packs a snowball and
oases it, The kid throws one back. Rita and Phil both,
ingo it. packing snowballs and getting into a war with t}
and his little gang of friends.
A snowball catches Rita off balance, she slips and goes down in
& snewbank. Phil bends down to help her and slips. They are
Row £09 lying in the snow, leughing. Their eyes lock for
moment, then Riza gets embarrassed and stands up
eur 70:
EXT. CHERRY STREET INN - NIGHT 108
RITA
I'm just amazed. And I'm not easily
anazed.
PHIL
About what?
RITA |
How you can start a day with one
kind of expectation and end up so
completely different.
PEEL
Do you Like how +
is day is curning
(CONTINUED)
108
110
Revised Yellow 3
92
CONTINUED:
RITA
Yes. I like it very much. .
She turns to him.
They stop at the front door of the hotel.
RITA
But it couldn't have been more
perfect, you could never have
Planned’ a day like this.
PHIL
Maybe, come on in. I want you to
see my zoom.
He takes her by the hand and leads her into the bed and
Breakfast.
INT. CHERRY STREET INN - CONTINUOUS
Phil ané Rita enter and walk past the parlor and the breakfast
RITA
what a lovely place!
I NE 1 3 ii, od
c's given me a lot of really go
decorating ideas.
INT. PHIL'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Phil has prepared the room, anticipating Rita’s visit. The
Lighting is subdued and romantic, the fake fire is on in the
fjreplace, and books are strategically placed around the Foor as
if he reads constantly.
Phil pretends to warm his hands over the fake fire.
PHIL
So what do you think?
(CONTINUED)
u
110
Revised Yellow 3
92
CONTINUED:
RITA
Yes. I like it very much. .
She turns to him.
They stop at the front door of the hotel.
RITA
But it couldn't have been more
perfect, you could never have
Planned’ a day like this.
PHIL
Maybe, come on in. I want you to
see my zoom.
He takes her by the hand and leads her into the bed and
Breakfast.
INT. CHERRY STREET INN - CONTINUOUS
Phil ané Rita enter and walk past the parlor and the breakfast
RITA
what a lovely place!
I NE 1 3 ii, od
c's given me a lot of really go
decorating ideas.
INT. PHIL'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Phil has prepared the room, anticipating Rita’s visit. The
Lighting is subdued and romantic, the fake fire is on in the
fjreplace, and books are strategically placed around the Foor as
if he reads constantly.
Phil pretends to warm his hands over the fake fire.
PHIL
So what do you think?
(CONTINUED)
u
RITA
is a wonderful room, .
PHIL
It is now.
He takes her in his arms and kisses her. She kisses back, then
he guides her down onto the bed and gently pushes her back
agains: the pillons. Phil starts to kiss her again but
Seems to catch herself.
RITA
2 don't kn
ES as
I don’t think
PEL
No, we should.
end to a perfect
s is the perfect
Y.
le fast for me
aybe 1 should go.
She stands up and starts to straighten her clothes.
PHIL
1
got some poetry
audelaire. We
ice
sin
PHIL
Rocky road.
it's her favorite.
RITA,
How dia you.
PHIL
Please stay,
No, really, Phil, I'm tired. Me can
be together tomorrow.
(CONTINUED)
is a wonderful room, .
PHIL
It is now.
He takes her in his arms and kisses her. She kisses back, then
he guides her down onto the bed and gently pushes her back
agains: the pillons. Phil starts to kiss her again but
Seems to catch herself.
RITA
2 don't kn
ES as
I don’t think
PEL
No, we should.
end to a perfect
s is the perfect
Y.
le fast for me
aybe 1 should go.
She stands up and starts to straighten her clothes.
PHIL
1
got some poetry
audelaire. We
ice
sin
PHIL
Rocky road.
it's her favorite.
RITA,
How dia you.
PHIL
Please stay,
No, really, Phil, I'm tired. Me can
be together tomorrow.
(CONTINUED)
6-
112 CONTINUED:
RITA
1 said tne."
PHIL
(getting desperate!
But tomorrow is so far away!
RITA
(adamant)
Let's not ruin it, Phil. There's no
way I'm sleeping with you tonight.
PHIL
Why not, Rita, 1 love you!
RITA
You don't even know me!
There is a moment of silent tension, then all her old doubts
above Phil come rushing back.
RITA
oh. no. 1 can't believe 1 fell for
it: “This whole day was just one
long set-up. And 2 ate fudg
yucenh! 2 hate fudge.
PHIL
(making mental note)
No white checozate, no fudge.
RITA
What are you doing-- keeping sone
kind of list? Did you call up my
friends and ask what I like and
dan't like? Is that what love is to
you?
PHIL
No, this is real. I love you.
RITA
Stop saying that! Do you get off on
manapulating people? Dic you have
some problem in your childhood?
PHIL
Lingenuous1y)
had a terrible childhood.
(CONTINUED)
112 CONTINUED:
RITA
1 said tne."
PHIL
(getting desperate!
But tomorrow is so far away!
RITA
(adamant)
Let's not ruin it, Phil. There's no
way I'm sleeping with you tonight.
PHIL
Why not, Rita, 1 love you!
RITA
You don't even know me!
There is a moment of silent tension, then all her old doubts
above Phil come rushing back.
RITA
oh. no. 1 can't believe 1 fell for
it: “This whole day was just one
long set-up. And 2 ate fudg
yucenh! 2 hate fudge.
PHIL
(making mental note)
No white checozate, no fudge.
RITA
What are you doing-- keeping sone
kind of list? Did you call up my
friends and ask what I like and
dan't like? Is that what love is to
you?
PHIL
No, this is real. I love you.
RITA
Stop saying that! Do you get off on
manapulating people? Dic you have
some problem in your childhood?
PHIL
Lingenuous1y)
had a terrible childhood.
(CONTINUED)
12
13
aaa
Revised Yellow 2/17/52
am
CONTINUED:
RITA
Well, stop taking it out on
everyone else! 1 could never love
someone Like you, because you'll
never love anyone but yourself.
PHIL
But I can change! Just give me a
chance. 1 can be sensitive and
Supportive and considerate:
RITA,
You had your chance
PHIL.
(cheerfully munbling)
1 love my mother
She gives him a hard slap on the cheek.
RITA.
That's for making me care about
you.
She turns and exits, leaving Phil standing there hurting.
cur To
EXT. ‘TOM SQUARE - ANOTHER NIGHT a
The snowball fight with the kids is going on as before. Phil
ius into the snowbank with Rita and they almost kisi
cur To:
EXT: CHERRY STREET INN - ANOTHER NIGHT an
Phil and Rita are at the front door, but this time he can’: even
seem to get her to come inside. She shoves him away and leaves +
him standing there alone
cur To.
EXT. CHERRY STREET INN - OTHER NIGHTS us
In quick cuts we see Rita slap Phil and leave him. H
cur 10:
13
aaa
Revised Yellow 2/17/52
am
CONTINUED:
RITA
Well, stop taking it out on
everyone else! 1 could never love
someone Like you, because you'll
never love anyone but yourself.
PHIL
But I can change! Just give me a
chance. 1 can be sensitive and
Supportive and considerate:
RITA,
You had your chance
PHIL.
(cheerfully munbling)
1 love my mother
She gives him a hard slap on the cheek.
RITA.
That's for making me care about
you.
She turns and exits, leaving Phil standing there hurting.
cur To
EXT. ‘TOM SQUARE - ANOTHER NIGHT a
The snowball fight with the kids is going on as before. Phil
ius into the snowbank with Rita and they almost kisi
cur To:
EXT: CHERRY STREET INN - ANOTHER NIGHT an
Phil and Rita are at the front door, but this time he can’: even
seem to get her to come inside. She shoves him away and leaves +
him standing there alone
cur To.
EXT. CHERRY STREET INN - OTHER NIGHTS us
In quick cuts we see Rita slap Phil and leave him. H
cur 10:
1138
us
Revised Yellow 37.
Te
EXT. PENNSYLVANIAN HOTEL - ANOTHER NIGHT
Rita slaps Phil and enters the hotel, again leaving him out in
the cold.
cur To:
OMITTED
us
Revised Yellow 37.
Te
EXT. PENNSYLVANIAN HOTEL - ANOTHER NIGHT
Rita slaps Phil and enters the hotel, again leaving him out in
the cold.
cur To:
OMITTED
Revised Pink 3/13/92
-78-
115 EXT. HOTEL - NIGHT
The streets are deserted except for Phil, Staring up at Rita's
window.
Rita comes to her window and looks out. She sees Phil looking
up at her and draws the curtains.
cur 20:
125A EXT. ICE SCULPTURE AREA
stands around the carved groundhogs staring at them, one of
then.
cur 10:
116 INT. PHIL'S ROOM - DAWN 16
:1 Got You, Babe* is playing. Phil hits the clock radio to turn
+ off. “He lies there for à moment, then hefts himself heavily
cut cf bed, not eager to repeat the day yet another tine. With
the radio off, Phi! does the deejays" morning routine himself,
Seemingly for the millionth time.
PHIL
(cuy)
Okay, campers, rise and shine, and
don't forget your booties because
its coocoold out there today.
Phil continues the radio report at his om pace, obvious
fatigued. Po Pes E
PHIL
It's cold out there everyday.
What is this-- Miami Beach? Haw.
Not hardiy. And you can expect
hazardous travel later today with
that, you know, blizzard thing.
cur 10:
117 EXP. GOBBLER'S KNOB - DANN 17
Phil wanders over to where Rita and Larry are setting up the
camera. Rita comes over to him.
RITA,
You look terrible, Phil. What
happened? Rough Aight?
PHIL
(sadly)
Yeah.
cur To:
-78-
115 EXT. HOTEL - NIGHT
The streets are deserted except for Phil, Staring up at Rita's
window.
Rita comes to her window and looks out. She sees Phil looking
up at her and draws the curtains.
cur 20:
125A EXT. ICE SCULPTURE AREA
stands around the carved groundhogs staring at them, one of
then.
cur 10:
116 INT. PHIL'S ROOM - DAWN 16
:1 Got You, Babe* is playing. Phil hits the clock radio to turn
+ off. “He lies there for à moment, then hefts himself heavily
cut cf bed, not eager to repeat the day yet another tine. With
the radio off, Phi! does the deejays" morning routine himself,
Seemingly for the millionth time.
PHIL
(cuy)
Okay, campers, rise and shine, and
don't forget your booties because
its coocoold out there today.
Phil continues the radio report at his om pace, obvious
fatigued. Po Pes E
PHIL
It's cold out there everyday.
What is this-- Miami Beach? Haw.
Not hardiy. And you can expect
hazardous travel later today with
that, you know, blizzard thing.
cur 10:
117 EXP. GOBBLER'S KNOB - DANN 17
Phil wanders over to where Rita and Larry are setting up the
camera. Rita comes over to him.
RITA,
You look terrible, Phil. What
happened? Rough Aight?
PHIL
(sadly)
Yeah.
cur To:
9.
a
POOL HALL - NIGHT
The balls CRACK as the cue ball breaks the rack.
Phil is walking around the table, cue in hand, sinking ball
after ball. while a couple of tough young POOL PLAYERS icsk on
FIRST PLAYER
Who is this guy?
SECOND PLAYER
1 don't know. Hey, mist
you, anyway?
Phil shoots, sinks a tough one.
Who are
PHIL
You don't know me? I've been
Playing here every day for months.
FIRST PLAYER
On, yeah? So how come T ain't seen
you?
PRIL
I don't know. 1 seen you.
SECOND PLAYER
So what's your name?
p
They call me Punxsutawney Pi
SECOND PLAYER
Punxsucawney Phil? Like the
Groundhog
PHIL
Yeah, like the groundhog.
The pool shark Jaughs derisively then stops when Phil makes a
particularly difficult shot. u
SECOND PLAYER
Lucky.
PHIL
Oh, tim real ducky. You looking for
SECOND PLAYER
ying)
2 don't bet pool.
L
So what do you bet, Gertrude?
(CONTINUED)
a
POOL HALL - NIGHT
The balls CRACK as the cue ball breaks the rack.
Phil is walking around the table, cue in hand, sinking ball
after ball. while a couple of tough young POOL PLAYERS icsk on
FIRST PLAYER
Who is this guy?
SECOND PLAYER
1 don't know. Hey, mist
you, anyway?
Phil shoots, sinks a tough one.
Who are
PHIL
You don't know me? I've been
Playing here every day for months.
FIRST PLAYER
On, yeah? So how come T ain't seen
you?
PRIL
I don't know. 1 seen you.
SECOND PLAYER
So what's your name?
p
They call me Punxsutawney Pi
SECOND PLAYER
Punxsucawney Phil? Like the
Groundhog
PHIL
Yeah, like the groundhog.
The pool shark Jaughs derisively then stops when Phil makes a
particularly difficult shot. u
SECOND PLAYER
Lucky.
PHIL
Oh, tim real ducky. You looking for
SECOND PLAYER
ying)
2 don't bet pool.
L
So what do you bet, Gertrude?
(CONTINUED)
-50-
118 CONTI
On the TV set above the bar, a 76ers basketball game is
progress.
SECOND PLAYER
Basketball.
Phil runs the rest of the table as he talks.
PHIL
Okay, I'll take the Sixers over the
Celts by 7
(sinks a bald)
knicks over Washington by 11--
(sinks another)
Bulls by 5 over the Pistons.
(sinks anothe:
and the Sonics over the Blazers by
s with a very hard two rail bank shot and turns to
pool sharks.
FIRST PLAYER
(dawning realization)
Hey, mister. You some kind of
hustler?
eur to:
EXT. GCSSLER’S KNOB - DAWN
The crowd is waiting expectantly for the groundhog to appear.
Phil is a wreck, squatting unprofessionally in front of the
camera.
a
This 12 one of the most pitiful
Re
so damned much, why don't they move
to Florida, anyway?
4 Rita look on, incredulous.
cur mo:
118 CONTI
On the TV set above the bar, a 76ers basketball game is
progress.
SECOND PLAYER
Basketball.
Phil runs the rest of the table as he talks.
PHIL
Okay, I'll take the Sixers over the
Celts by 7
(sinks a bald)
knicks over Washington by 11--
(sinks another)
Bulls by 5 over the Pistons.
(sinks anothe:
and the Sonics over the Blazers by
s with a very hard two rail bank shot and turns to
pool sharks.
FIRST PLAYER
(dawning realization)
Hey, mister. You some kind of
hustler?
eur to:
EXT. GCSSLER’S KNOB - DAWN
The crowd is waiting expectantly for the groundhog to appear.
Phil is a wreck, squatting unprofessionally in front of the
camera.
a
This 12 one of the most pitiful
Re
so damned much, why don't they move
to Florida, anyway?
4 Rita look on, incredulous.
cur mo:
122
-81-
INT. BOWLING ALLEY - NIGHT
À crowd is gathered at one of the alleys. The overhead
projector shows two completed games of 284 and 290. The third
Game shows eleven consecutive strikes.
Phil bowls, the ball hocks right into the pocket and all the
pins go flying. Perfect game. The crowd cheers. Phil nods in
Scknowledgemen: but just looks bored by it all.
cur To:
INT. PARLOUR
CLOSE UP - TV SET
‘The program JEOPARDY! is playing.
ALEX TREBECK
fon TY)
Nobel prize-winning co-discoverers
of the DNA molecule.
PRIL (0.6.)
Who are Watson and Crick.
CONTESTANT
(on TV)
uno are Watson and Crick?
ALEX
(on TY
Correct
We pull back to reveal Phil sitting in his bathrobe in a big
lounge chair in the parlor of his hotel. Mrs. Lancaster, and
other guests wacch his performance, awed by his "intellect.
ALEX
ton TV)
Twin brother and sister Sebastian
and Olivia create confusion in this
‘Shakespearean comedy.
PHIL
What is ‘twelfth Night."
CONTESTANT
fon TV)
What is "Twelfth Night?*
Ex
(en YF
correct.
(CONTENTED)
-81-
INT. BOWLING ALLEY - NIGHT
À crowd is gathered at one of the alleys. The overhead
projector shows two completed games of 284 and 290. The third
Game shows eleven consecutive strikes.
Phil bowls, the ball hocks right into the pocket and all the
pins go flying. Perfect game. The crowd cheers. Phil nods in
Scknowledgemen: but just looks bored by it all.
cur To:
INT. PARLOUR
CLOSE UP - TV SET
‘The program JEOPARDY! is playing.
ALEX TREBECK
fon TY)
Nobel prize-winning co-discoverers
of the DNA molecule.
PRIL (0.6.)
Who are Watson and Crick.
CONTESTANT
(on TV)
uno are Watson and Crick?
ALEX
(on TY
Correct
We pull back to reveal Phil sitting in his bathrobe in a big
lounge chair in the parlor of his hotel. Mrs. Lancaster, and
other guests wacch his performance, awed by his "intellect.
ALEX
ton TV)
Twin brother and sister Sebastian
and Olivia create confusion in this
‘Shakespearean comedy.
PHIL
What is ‘twelfth Night."
CONTESTANT
fon TV)
What is "Twelfth Night?*
Ex
(en YF
correct.
(CONTENTED)
-82-
321 CONTINUED:
More cheering from the small group.
MRS. LANCASTER
(to Phil
How do you know ali the answers?
PHIL
Rerun.
CONTESTO
1 {ake New Jersey for eich
{She New Jersey for eight
hundred, Alex. + *
ALEX
fon TW)
And the answer is-- an audio daily
double.
PHIL
Count Basie.
cur 10:
122 EXT. STREET - DAY 12
Phil is walking through town, still dressed only in his pajamas
and overcoat, counting the sidewalk cracks, taking giants steps
em one to the next. He looks crazy
PHIL
thousand six hundred and seventy-
{takes another step)
tuo thousand six hundred and seventy-
{another step)
two thousand six hundred and seventy-
A woman passes walking her dog.
PHIL
Hey, pick up after your dog!
DOG WALKER
But he hasn't done anything.
N
There and there. And there!
(CONTINUED)
321 CONTINUED:
More cheering from the small group.
MRS. LANCASTER
(to Phil
How do you know ali the answers?
PHIL
Rerun.
CONTESTO
1 {ake New Jersey for eich
{She New Jersey for eight
hundred, Alex. + *
ALEX
fon TW)
And the answer is-- an audio daily
double.
PHIL
Count Basie.
cur 10:
122 EXT. STREET - DAY 12
Phil is walking through town, still dressed only in his pajamas
and overcoat, counting the sidewalk cracks, taking giants steps
em one to the next. He looks crazy
PHIL
thousand six hundred and seventy-
{takes another step)
tuo thousand six hundred and seventy-
{another step)
two thousand six hundred and seventy-
A woman passes walking her dog.
PHIL
Hey, pick up after your dog!
DOG WALKER
But he hasn't done anything.
N
There and there. And there!
(CONTINUED)
122
Revised Yellow 3/17/92
-83-
CONTINUED:
Phil continues walking, counting the sidewalk cracks. THREE
NEIGHBORHOOD KIDS notice Phil and walk along, matching him step
for step.
PHIL
Two thousand six hundred seventy-
four, two thousand six hundred
seventy-five, two thousand-~
JOEY
Five million eight hundred--
PHIL
Six hundred:
MIKE AND SUE
twenty, four, six, fifty-
PHIL
Two thousand, four--
JOEY, “MIKE AND SUE
Two, eight, mine, forty-six--
Phil stops. He has lost count. His lip curls up like an animal
as he turns slowly, growling at the kids. They run away
Screaming with glee as Phil starts after them but a COP pulls up
ina cruiser and gets out.
cor
You got a problem, buddy?
PHIL
(out of control)
Yeah, T got a problem, buddy! 1
can't stand this town and 1 can’t
Stand this street and I can't,
stand the fourteen bars and the
five banks and the one star food
and che bad weather and the quaint
little shops and most of all, I
can't stand anything-- ANYTHING-~
with a groundhog on it.
cop
(calmiy)
Okay. Then let's see what we can
do about getting you out of here.
You got a name?
Revised Yellow 3/17/92
-83-
CONTINUED:
Phil continues walking, counting the sidewalk cracks. THREE
NEIGHBORHOOD KIDS notice Phil and walk along, matching him step
for step.
PHIL
Two thousand six hundred seventy-
four, two thousand six hundred
seventy-five, two thousand-~
JOEY
Five million eight hundred--
PHIL
Six hundred:
MIKE AND SUE
twenty, four, six, fifty-
PHIL
Two thousand, four--
JOEY, “MIKE AND SUE
Two, eight, mine, forty-six--
Phil stops. He has lost count. His lip curls up like an animal
as he turns slowly, growling at the kids. They run away
Screaming with glee as Phil starts after them but a COP pulls up
ina cruiser and gets out.
cor
You got a problem, buddy?
PHIL
(out of control)
Yeah, T got a problem, buddy! 1
can't stand this town and 1 can’t
Stand this street and I can't,
stand the fourteen bars and the
five banks and the one star food
and che bad weather and the quaint
little shops and most of all, I
can't stand anything-- ANYTHING-~
with a groundhog on it.
cop
(calmiy)
Okay. Then let's see what we can
do about getting you out of here.
You got a name?
Revised Yellow 3,
84
122 CONTINUED: =
PHIL
Phil.
cor
Phil. Like the groundhog!
Phil turns to the cop like a rabid dog, ready to strike
PHIL
Yeah, like the--
(he ‘rips the groundhog
Becher che cop's El
Socket!
--groundheg.
sone big new idea has formed in his mind.
cur mo
122A EXT. TOWN SQUARE - NIGHT
The sound of a chain saw fills the air. Phil, dressed crazily
in his pajamas and robe, is sawing the heads off all the
Groundhog statues.
cur mo;
123 EXT. GOBBLER'S KNOB - EARLY MORNING 223
Rita is looking at Phil as Larry videotapes his report.
Phil, is completely, unkenpt, still wearing only pajama bottons
and nis overcoat, looking even more demented
PHIL
(to camera)
There is no way this winter is
ever going to end as long as that
groundhog keeps seeing his shadow
every day. I don't see any other
way Out. “He's got to be stopped
and I've got to stop him. For
Channel 9 news, this is Phil
Connors .
Larry looks at Rita as he finishes taping Phil.
LARRY
He's out of his gourd.
84
122 CONTINUED: =
PHIL
Phil.
cor
Phil. Like the groundhog!
Phil turns to the cop like a rabid dog, ready to strike
PHIL
Yeah, like the--
(he ‘rips the groundhog
Becher che cop's El
Socket!
--groundheg.
sone big new idea has formed in his mind.
cur mo
122A EXT. TOWN SQUARE - NIGHT
The sound of a chain saw fills the air. Phil, dressed crazily
in his pajamas and robe, is sawing the heads off all the
Groundhog statues.
cur mo;
123 EXT. GOBBLER'S KNOB - EARLY MORNING 223
Rita is looking at Phil as Larry videotapes his report.
Phil, is completely, unkenpt, still wearing only pajama bottons
and nis overcoat, looking even more demented
PHIL
(to camera)
There is no way this winter is
ever going to end as long as that
groundhog keeps seeing his shadow
every day. I don't see any other
way Out. “He's got to be stopped
and I've got to stop him. For
Channel 9 news, this is Phil
Connors .
Larry looks at Rita as he finishes taping Phil.
LARRY
He's out of his gourd.
125
Revised Yellow 2/17/92
-es-
OMITTED it
EXT. TOWN SQUARE - DAY 125
Larry and Rita are loading their equipment back into the van
Phil approaches, demented.
PHIL
lat the end of his rope)
Live come to the end of me, Rita,
‘Tere’s only one way out now.
Just remember, we had a wonderful
day together once.
Phil kisses her gently on the cheek and walks off.
Buster Green and TWO other GROUNDHOG CLUB OFFICIALS are lifting
a cage into the front seat of Buster's pickup.
BUSTER
(to the groundhog)
There you go, ol’ buddy. Good
job. Hey!” He smiled at me. See
that?
A FIRST OFFICIAL
Right.
BUSTER
(securing the cage)
Okay, little fella.
The other official looks up and sees Phil walking toward them
like a zombie.
FIRST OFFICIAL .
Hi there, mister, Something I can
do you fi
Without a word, Phil jumps quickly into the cab of the pickup
and starts it up.
FIRST OFFICIAL
Hey! What're you:
Phil drives off in Buster's truck.
Rita witnesses the groundhog-napping and runs back toward the
Buster and his aides race for another car parked nearby.
(CONTINUED)
Revised Yellow 2/17/92
-es-
OMITTED it
EXT. TOWN SQUARE - DAY 125
Larry and Rita are loading their equipment back into the van
Phil approaches, demented.
PHIL
lat the end of his rope)
Live come to the end of me, Rita,
‘Tere’s only one way out now.
Just remember, we had a wonderful
day together once.
Phil kisses her gently on the cheek and walks off.
Buster Green and TWO other GROUNDHOG CLUB OFFICIALS are lifting
a cage into the front seat of Buster's pickup.
BUSTER
(to the groundhog)
There you go, ol’ buddy. Good
job. Hey!” He smiled at me. See
that?
A FIRST OFFICIAL
Right.
BUSTER
(securing the cage)
Okay, little fella.
The other official looks up and sees Phil walking toward them
like a zombie.
FIRST OFFICIAL .
Hi there, mister, Something I can
do you fi
Without a word, Phil jumps quickly into the cab of the pickup
and starts it up.
FIRST OFFICIAL
Hey! What're you:
Phil drives off in Buster's truck.
Rita witnesses the groundhog-napping and runs back toward the
Buster and his aides race for another car parked nearby.
(CONTINUED)
126
127
128
Revised Pink 3/13/32
-85-
‘CONTINUE!
BUSTER
Jake! Gat che word out. Somebody
kidnapped Phil. We're going after
hin. "Come on, Tommy!
They jump into a car, Buster guns the engine and takes off after
the pickup.
Rite runs up to Larry and grabs the camera on the fly,
RITA,
Let's go! Phil just snatched the
groun
They jump into the van.
RITA
Why would anybody steal a
groundnog?
LARRY
(mutters)
2 could think of a couple of
reasons. Pervert.
cur To:
EXT. LOCAL ROAD - MINUTES LATER
Phil comes tearing around a corner, followed by Buster in his
ear, and close behind him, a police car and the Channel 9 news
van.
INT. PICKUP - CONTINUOUS
Phil looks at the groundhog on the seat next to him, then
punches the gas as he turns onto a back road.
PHIL
You know who I am, don’t you?
Look in the mirror. It's me.
We're Phil. "1 knew you'd”
understand, This is the winter
that's never gonna end. You
predicted it. You called the
Storm, 1 didn't.
INT. BUSTER'S CAR - SAME TIME
Buster pursues Phil with relentless determination.
(CONTINUED)
12
12
22
127
128
Revised Pink 3/13/32
-85-
‘CONTINUE!
BUSTER
Jake! Gat che word out. Somebody
kidnapped Phil. We're going after
hin. "Come on, Tommy!
They jump into a car, Buster guns the engine and takes off after
the pickup.
Rite runs up to Larry and grabs the camera on the fly,
RITA,
Let's go! Phil just snatched the
groun
They jump into the van.
RITA
Why would anybody steal a
groundnog?
LARRY
(mutters)
2 could think of a couple of
reasons. Pervert.
cur To:
EXT. LOCAL ROAD - MINUTES LATER
Phil comes tearing around a corner, followed by Buster in his
ear, and close behind him, a police car and the Channel 9 news
van.
INT. PICKUP - CONTINUOUS
Phil looks at the groundhog on the seat next to him, then
punches the gas as he turns onto a back road.
PHIL
You know who I am, don’t you?
Look in the mirror. It's me.
We're Phil. "1 knew you'd”
understand, This is the winter
that's never gonna end. You
predicted it. You called the
Storm, 1 didn't.
INT. BUSTER'S CAR - SAME TIME
Buster pursues Phil with relentless determination.
(CONTINUED)
12
12
22
Revised Yellow 3/17/32
-87-
128 CONTINUED: 128
BUSTER
Nobody takes my groundhog and gets
away with it.
129 INT. THE NEWS VAN - SAME TIME
Larry is driving.
RITA
{very upset)
What is he doing? He must've Just==
snapped.
LARRY
‘This oughta be good.
RITA
What can he be thinking?
130 OMITIED mo
131 INT. PICKUP - SAME TIME 11
PHIL
Coming to the end of the trail,
Phil.” Then we're going out in a
blaze of glory. What? You wanna
Grive? Sure, pal. Whatever you
say.
Phil holds the groundhog up to the steering wheel.
331A EXT. OLD QUARRY ROAD - CONTINUOUS
‘The cars chase the pickup onto a narrow access road.
132 OMITTED 132
133 EXT. OLD QUARRY ROAD - SAME TIME 133
Te pickup is losing its lead over the pursuers as it nears the
Old limestone quarry and breaks through the security gate.
134 INT. THE PICKUP - SAME TIME 134
Phil looks in his rearview mirror at the cars chasing him. The
Groundhog is driving.
(CONTINUED)
-87-
128 CONTINUED: 128
BUSTER
Nobody takes my groundhog and gets
away with it.
129 INT. THE NEWS VAN - SAME TIME
Larry is driving.
RITA
{very upset)
What is he doing? He must've Just==
snapped.
LARRY
‘This oughta be good.
RITA
What can he be thinking?
130 OMITIED mo
131 INT. PICKUP - SAME TIME 11
PHIL
Coming to the end of the trail,
Phil.” Then we're going out in a
blaze of glory. What? You wanna
Grive? Sure, pal. Whatever you
say.
Phil holds the groundhog up to the steering wheel.
331A EXT. OLD QUARRY ROAD - CONTINUOUS
‘The cars chase the pickup onto a narrow access road.
132 OMITTED 132
133 EXT. OLD QUARRY ROAD - SAME TIME 133
Te pickup is losing its lead over the pursuers as it nears the
Old limestone quarry and breaks through the security gate.
134 INT. THE PICKUP - SAME TIME 134
Phil looks in his rearview mirror at the cars chasing him. The
Groundhog is driving.
(CONTINUED)
134
13
Revised Yellow 3/17/82
-88-
CONTINUED:
EXT. THE QUARRY - CONTINUOUS 235
The pickup truck races into the quarry past big piles
rock and gravel and disappears behind a huge mound.
£ crushed
Buster and the police arrive a moment later and ski¢ to a stop
Blocking the only means of escape, Buster and the cops Jurp cut
Of thelf cats as che news van actives”
BUSTER
Hot dog! There's no way out ‘cept
the way we Came. We've got him id
Rita and Larry jump out. Everyone looks in the direction Phil
Gisappeared and waits.
A moment later, the pickup rolls slowly into view from behind
the huge rock pile and stops.
nusrer | .
ane ae to kin ine on E
Groundhog.
INT. THE PICKUP - SAME TIME 16
Phil surveys the scene and takes a breath.
PHIL
Okay, Phil, it's show time.
Phil hits the gas.
EXT. THE QUARRY - SAME TIME 137
The pickup speeds toward the other vehicles but instead of
Heading for the way out, veers, coverg che edge of the limestone
jarry,, passing Buster, che police, Larry, who's shooting che
Shole’tning, and finally Rica
hey all watch in amazement as the pickup bursts through a low
retaining fence and rockets over the edge of the cliff.
he pickup seems to hang in the air for a long tame, then it
begins its SLOW MOTION descent, falling ever so gracefully until
it impacts on the granite rock face far below.
(CONTINUED)
13
Revised Yellow 3/17/82
-88-
CONTINUED:
EXT. THE QUARRY - CONTINUOUS 235
The pickup truck races into the quarry past big piles
rock and gravel and disappears behind a huge mound.
£ crushed
Buster and the police arrive a moment later and ski¢ to a stop
Blocking the only means of escape, Buster and the cops Jurp cut
Of thelf cats as che news van actives”
BUSTER
Hot dog! There's no way out ‘cept
the way we Came. We've got him id
Rita and Larry jump out. Everyone looks in the direction Phil
Gisappeared and waits.
A moment later, the pickup rolls slowly into view from behind
the huge rock pile and stops.
nusrer | .
ane ae to kin ine on E
Groundhog.
INT. THE PICKUP - SAME TIME 16
Phil surveys the scene and takes a breath.
PHIL
Okay, Phil, it's show time.
Phil hits the gas.
EXT. THE QUARRY - SAME TIME 137
The pickup speeds toward the other vehicles but instead of
Heading for the way out, veers, coverg che edge of the limestone
jarry,, passing Buster, che police, Larry, who's shooting che
Shole’tning, and finally Rica
hey all watch in amazement as the pickup bursts through a low
retaining fence and rockets over the edge of the cliff.
he pickup seems to hang in the air for a long tame, then it
begins its SLOW MOTION descent, falling ever so gracefully until
it impacts on the granite rock face far below.
(CONTINUED)
138
139
140
141
102
143
-39-
RITA AND LARRY
look down at the wreckage, stunned.
LARRY
loptimistically)
He may be
li right»
Then the truck explodes.
BIG FIREBALL, FLAMING WRECKAGE. Then a small click,
followed by *z Got You, Babe."
DISSOLVE To:
INT. PHIL'S ROOM - DAW
Phil slowly opens his eyes and blinks. He looks around and
Feslizes he's'back in his ron at che bed ang breakfast,
PHIL
An, nuts!
He throws off the covers and huris himself out of bed.
cor To:
INT. BREAKFAST ROOM - A LITTLE LATER
Phil enters in his pajanas, nods to Mrs. Lancaster and grabs a
toaster off the buffet table.
INT. BATHROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Phil enters, plugs in the toaster and steps inte the tub with
ite
INT. BREAKFAST ROOM - SAME TIME
Mrs. Lancaster and the other guests hear the zap of an
lectrocution, the lights flicker and dim for a moment, then
cone back on again.
cur To:
139
240
dei
142
139
140
141
102
143
-39-
RITA AND LARRY
look down at the wreckage, stunned.
LARRY
loptimistically)
He may be
li right»
Then the truck explodes.
BIG FIREBALL, FLAMING WRECKAGE. Then a small click,
followed by *z Got You, Babe."
DISSOLVE To:
INT. PHIL'S ROOM - DAW
Phil slowly opens his eyes and blinks. He looks around and
Feslizes he's'back in his ron at che bed ang breakfast,
PHIL
An, nuts!
He throws off the covers and huris himself out of bed.
cor To:
INT. BREAKFAST ROOM - A LITTLE LATER
Phil enters in his pajanas, nods to Mrs. Lancaster and grabs a
toaster off the buffet table.
INT. BATHROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Phil enters, plugs in the toaster and steps inte the tub with
ite
INT. BREAKFAST ROOM - SAME TIME
Mrs. Lancaster and the other guests hear the zap of an
lectrocution, the lights flicker and dim for a moment, then
cone back on again.
cur To:
139
240
dei
142
1432
1432
146
Revised Yellow 1/17/92
-90-
EXT. STREET - DAY Ben
A truck accelerates dom Main Street. Suddenly, Phil, dressed +
In pajamas and overcoat, leaps out in front of ic. :
DRIVERS FOV :
He sees Phil through the windshield but doesn't have time to hit |
the Srakes before he runs right over him. :
cur to:
INT. PILES ROOM - DAWN 208
{E,Got You, Baber is playing. Phil wakes up and smashes the :
cur 10:
EXT. CLOSE UP - PHIL- ANOTHER DAY
He’s standing outs
his hair.
ide somewhere with the wind blowing through
PULL BACK TO REVEAL:
Phil stands atop the Gothic bell tower of the Pennsylvanian
Hotel, the highest point in town, looking off into the distance.
Then he jumps off in a pretty well-executed swan Give.
ON THE GROUND 25
Somebody serenms, and a crowd immediately forms around a spot on
IS dy forms around a spot
Ned Ryerson pushes through to the front.
NED
Phil! Phil Conmors! I thought
that was him! Gee, I wonder if he
had life insurance:
cur ro:
OMITTED 146
OMITTED
INT. MORGUE - DAY
Rita weeps while Larry stands by comforting her.
(CONTINUED)
1432
146
Revised Yellow 1/17/92
-90-
EXT. STREET - DAY Ben
A truck accelerates dom Main Street. Suddenly, Phil, dressed +
In pajamas and overcoat, leaps out in front of ic. :
DRIVERS FOV :
He sees Phil through the windshield but doesn't have time to hit |
the Srakes before he runs right over him. :
cur to:
INT. PILES ROOM - DAWN 208
{E,Got You, Baber is playing. Phil wakes up and smashes the :
cur 10:
EXT. CLOSE UP - PHIL- ANOTHER DAY
He’s standing outs
his hair.
ide somewhere with the wind blowing through
PULL BACK TO REVEAL:
Phil stands atop the Gothic bell tower of the Pennsylvanian
Hotel, the highest point in town, looking off into the distance.
Then he jumps off in a pretty well-executed swan Give.
ON THE GROUND 25
Somebody serenms, and a crowd immediately forms around a spot on
IS dy forms around a spot
Ned Ryerson pushes through to the front.
NED
Phil! Phil Conmors! I thought
that was him! Gee, I wonder if he
had life insurance:
cur ro:
OMITTED 146
OMITTED
INT. MORGUE - DAY
Rita weeps while Larry stands by comforting her.
(CONTINUED)
Revised Yellow 3/17/52
-s08-
— 148 CONTINUED:
piso,
He was really a great guy. I
Peelly. ‘really 1lkec him:
-s08-
— 148 CONTINUED:
piso,
He was really a great guy. I
Peelly. ‘really 1lkec him:
149
150
151
CONTINUED:
Phil's body is covered with a sheet.
In the shadowy darkness under the sheet, a CLICK is heard.
INT. PHIL'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Phil's eyes pop open. "I Got You, Babe" plays.
Phil pulls the sheet off his face and finds
bed ir his room. A tear fails from his eye.
cur mo;
hinsel£ back in his
INT. CHURCH - DAY 250
Phil enters, site wearily in one of che pews and bows his head
to pray. Behind him, light is pouring through a beautiful
stained glass window. Desperate and with no place left to turn,
Phil prays for help. Suddenly he hears celestial music. Ic
Builds and swells, filling him with hope, inspiring him with
faith. Then just as he’s about to reach some kind of true
epiphany, the music seems to stick on one off-key note, which
just keeps sounding over and over.
Phil looks around and sees an organ tuner up in the loft working
on the church's old pipe organ.
PHIL
(shouts)
Do you mind? I'm praying
The organ tuner starts to apologize, but Phil just shakes his
head and exits.
cur To:
INT. DINER - MORNING 151
Phil and Rita are sitting in the diner at their regular table.
‘The morning hubbub is going on as usual.
RITA
I'm sorry. What was that again?
I'ma god.
E
You're God?
(CONTINUED)
150
151
CONTINUED:
Phil's body is covered with a sheet.
In the shadowy darkness under the sheet, a CLICK is heard.
INT. PHIL'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Phil's eyes pop open. "I Got You, Babe" plays.
Phil pulls the sheet off his face and finds
bed ir his room. A tear fails from his eye.
cur mo;
hinsel£ back in his
INT. CHURCH - DAY 250
Phil enters, site wearily in one of che pews and bows his head
to pray. Behind him, light is pouring through a beautiful
stained glass window. Desperate and with no place left to turn,
Phil prays for help. Suddenly he hears celestial music. Ic
Builds and swells, filling him with hope, inspiring him with
faith. Then just as he’s about to reach some kind of true
epiphany, the music seems to stick on one off-key note, which
just keeps sounding over and over.
Phil looks around and sees an organ tuner up in the loft working
on the church's old pipe organ.
PHIL
(shouts)
Do you mind? I'm praying
The organ tuner starts to apologize, but Phil just shakes his
head and exits.
cur To:
INT. DINER - MORNING 151
Phil and Rita are sitting in the diner at their regular table.
‘The morning hubbub is going on as usual.
RITA
I'm sorry. What was that again?
I'ma god.
E
You're God?
(CONTINUED)
-32-
CONTINUED:
PHIL
No, I'm A god. Not THE God
least I don't think I am.
RITA
‘That's reassuring. For a minute
there 1 thought you might be crazy.
PHIL
No, it's true. It's the only
possible explanation. i'ma
Supernatural being.
RITA
Because you survived a car wreck?
Doris comes to the table.
DORIS
You ready to order, folks?
PHIL
(co Rita, ignoring her)
Not just the car wreck! I didn't
just blow up yesterday, you know.
Hive been run over, drowned,
crushed, stabbed, shot
electrocuted, poisoned, frozen,
burned, and asphyxiated:
RITA
Really?
Doris looks at him like he's nuts.
PEL
| without &"se¥acch, without even =
headache. “I'm telling you, I'm
inmoreat »
ports
The special today is blueberry
waffles.
RITA
Why are you telling me this?
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED:
PHIL
No, I'm A god. Not THE God
least I don't think I am.
RITA
‘That's reassuring. For a minute
there 1 thought you might be crazy.
PHIL
No, it's true. It's the only
possible explanation. i'ma
Supernatural being.
RITA
Because you survived a car wreck?
Doris comes to the table.
DORIS
You ready to order, folks?
PHIL
(co Rita, ignoring her)
Not just the car wreck! I didn't
just blow up yesterday, you know.
Hive been run over, drowned,
crushed, stabbed, shot
electrocuted, poisoned, frozen,
burned, and asphyxiated:
RITA
Really?
Doris looks at him like he's nuts.
PEL
| without &"se¥acch, without even =
headache. “I'm telling you, I'm
inmoreat »
ports
The special today is blueberry
waffles.
RITA
Why are you telling me this?
(CONTINUED)
Revised Yellow
-93-
RITA
(to Doris)
Not you, him.
PHIL
Because I want you to believe in
RITA
You're not a god, Phil. Take my
word for it. “this is twelve years
Of Catholic school talking.
DORIS
I could come back if you're not
ready.
PRIL
How do you know I'm not a god?
RITA
Please.
PEIL
How do you know?
RITA
Because it's not possible.
DORIS
1°11 come back.
Doris turns to leave.
PHIL
Hey, Doris!
She turns back.
PHIL
This is Doris. Her brother-in-law
Carl owns the diner, she’s worked
here since she was Seventeen and
she*d give anything to visit Paris
once before she dies.
DORIS
(amazed)
Boy, would I! Hey! How did--
Phil grabs a passing waiter.
(CONTINUED)
-93-
RITA
(to Doris)
Not you, him.
PHIL
Because I want you to believe in
RITA
You're not a god, Phil. Take my
word for it. “this is twelve years
Of Catholic school talking.
DORIS
I could come back if you're not
ready.
PRIL
How do you know I'm not a god?
RITA
Please.
PEIL
How do you know?
RITA
Because it's not possible.
DORIS
1°11 come back.
Doris turns to leave.
PHIL
Hey, Doris!
She turns back.
PHIL
This is Doris. Her brother-in-law
Carl owns the diner, she’s worked
here since she was Seventeen and
she*d give anything to visit Paris
once before she dies.
DORIS
(amazed)
Boy, would I! Hey! How did--
Phil grabs a passing waiter.
(CONTINUED)
-s4-
PHIL
This is Bill. He's been a waiter
for three years because he left Penn
State and had to find work. He
likes the town, he paints toy
soldiers. and he's gay.
WAITER
Phil grabs an astonished Rita and pulls her over to the next
cable
RITA
What are you doing?
PEEL
This is Debbie Kleiser and her
Hance Fred.
DEBBIE
Do 1 know you?
PHIL
‘They're supposed to get married this
afternoon Bue Debbie is having
Second thoughts.
FRED
whet!
Debbie couches her engagement ring, dumbfounded. Rita is =
little embarrassed.
RITA
Lovely ring.
DEBBIE
Thanks
Phil dregs Rita to the counter.
PHIL
This is Gus. Say “Hi,
Rita.
Rita flashes a quick smile.
sus
Don't believe I've had the--
BREL
Gus nates his life here and wishes
Red stayed in the Navy.
(CONTIADED)
PHIL
This is Bill. He's been a waiter
for three years because he left Penn
State and had to find work. He
likes the town, he paints toy
soldiers. and he's gay.
WAITER
Phil grabs an astonished Rita and pulls her over to the next
cable
RITA
What are you doing?
PEEL
This is Debbie Kleiser and her
Hance Fred.
DEBBIE
Do 1 know you?
PHIL
‘They're supposed to get married this
afternoon Bue Debbie is having
Second thoughts.
FRED
whet!
Debbie couches her engagement ring, dumbfounded. Rita is =
little embarrassed.
RITA
Lovely ring.
DEBBIE
Thanks
Phil dregs Rita to the counter.
PHIL
This is Gus. Say “Hi,
Rita.
Rita flashes a quick smile.
sus
Don't believe I've had the--
BREL
Gus nates his life here and wishes
Red stayed in the Navy.
(CONTIADED)
Revised Yellow 3/17/92
151 CONTINUED:
Gus
Well, 1 coulda retired at half pay
after twenty years.
RITA
This is some kind of trick.
E
Yes, it's a trick. But maybe the
real God cheats, too. Maybe God
isn't omnipotent. He's just had
a lot of practice.
RITA
How about that guy?
PHIL,
Tom. Worked in the coal mine ‘tit
they shuz it down.
RITA
Her?
PHIL
Alice, came from Ireland when she
was a baby and lived in Erie most
Of her lite.
Rita is getting very bewildered. Fron their reactions she can
see that Phil is right about each and every one of them.
RITA
How do you know these people!
PHIL
T cold you the truth. in five
Seconds a busbey’s going to drop
a whole tray of dishes. Five,
Four
RITA
This is nuts.
PHIL
--three, two, one.
Phil points to the kitchen as a busboy trips and drops a fully
loaded bussing tray. Everyone in the diner is now staring at
chem.
RITA.
tastounded)
Okay, enough.
She pulls hin into a booth.
(CONTINUED)
151 CONTINUED:
Gus
Well, 1 coulda retired at half pay
after twenty years.
RITA
This is some kind of trick.
E
Yes, it's a trick. But maybe the
real God cheats, too. Maybe God
isn't omnipotent. He's just had
a lot of practice.
RITA
How about that guy?
PHIL,
Tom. Worked in the coal mine ‘tit
they shuz it down.
RITA
Her?
PHIL
Alice, came from Ireland when she
was a baby and lived in Erie most
Of her lite.
Rita is getting very bewildered. Fron their reactions she can
see that Phil is right about each and every one of them.
RITA
How do you know these people!
PHIL
T cold you the truth. in five
Seconds a busbey’s going to drop
a whole tray of dishes. Five,
Four
RITA
This is nuts.
PHIL
--three, two, one.
Phil points to the kitchen as a busboy trips and drops a fully
loaded bussing tray. Everyone in the diner is now staring at
chem.
RITA.
tastounded)
Okay, enough.
She pulls hin into a booth.
(CONTINUED)
RITA (Cont'd)
(they sic)
what do you know about me, Phil? Do
you know me, 100?
PHIL
2 know all about you, Rita. I know
you like producing, but hope for
Better than Channel 9, Pittsburgh.
RITA
Everyone knows that.
PHIL
You like beats but not the ocean.
There's a lake you go to in the
Summer wich your family, up in the
mountains, with an old wooden. dock
and a boathouse with boards missing
in the roof, and a place you used to
<rawl underneath to be alone, and at
sight you'd look up and see the
stars. You're a sucker for Rocky
Road, Marion Brendo, and french
poetry. You're wonderfully,
Generous; you're kind to strangers,
And cnsidren; and when you stand 20
the snow, you look like an angel.
RITA
How are you doing this?
PHIL
Listen! In ten seconds Larry is
going to walk through that door and
take you away from me.
RITA
Larry?
PHIL
Bur you can't ler him. Please
believe me. You've got to bi
(CONTINUED)
(they sic)
what do you know about me, Phil? Do
you know me, 100?
PHIL
2 know all about you, Rita. I know
you like producing, but hope for
Better than Channel 9, Pittsburgh.
RITA
Everyone knows that.
PHIL
You like beats but not the ocean.
There's a lake you go to in the
Summer wich your family, up in the
mountains, with an old wooden. dock
and a boathouse with boards missing
in the roof, and a place you used to
<rawl underneath to be alone, and at
sight you'd look up and see the
stars. You're a sucker for Rocky
Road, Marion Brendo, and french
poetry. You're wonderfully,
Generous; you're kind to strangers,
And cnsidren; and when you stand 20
the snow, you look like an angel.
RITA
How are you doing this?
PHIL
Listen! In ten seconds Larry is
going to walk through that door and
take you away from me.
RITA
Larry?
PHIL
Bur you can't ler him. Please
believe me. You've got to bi
(CONTINUED)
1
cones
RITA
1 don't--
s head in the doorway, locks around and spots
Larry pokes h
Rata:
PHIL
Look.
As Rita turns around to see Larry, Phil grabs a pen and pad from
a passing waitress and quickly writes someching down as Larry
makes nis way to their table. Phil finishes writing.
q
SER
hands the paper to Rita. She reads it.
RITA
(reading)
stay ahead of the weathe
Larry looks at the pap
LARRY
what's that?
Rica looks at Phil with new understanding and empathy.
cur 70:
152 EXT. FUDGE SHOP - DAY
31 and Rita come out of the shop, sharing pieces of fudge.
RITA
Tis is great.
PHIL
No, it isn't. You hate fudge.
3
Just how well do we know each other?
PHIL
T told you. 1 know everybody.
Byerson approaches.
(CONTINUED)
cones
RITA
1 don't--
s head in the doorway, locks around and spots
Larry pokes h
Rata:
PHIL
Look.
As Rita turns around to see Larry, Phil grabs a pen and pad from
a passing waitress and quickly writes someching down as Larry
makes nis way to their table. Phil finishes writing.
q
SER
hands the paper to Rita. She reads it.
RITA
(reading)
stay ahead of the weathe
Larry looks at the pap
LARRY
what's that?
Rica looks at Phil with new understanding and empathy.
cur 70:
152 EXT. FUDGE SHOP - DAY
31 and Rita come out of the shop, sharing pieces of fudge.
RITA
Tis is great.
PHIL
No, it isn't. You hate fudge.
3
Just how well do we know each other?
PHIL
T told you. 1 know everybody.
Byerson approaches.
(CONTINUED)
-36-
CONTINUED:
NED
Hey, Phil! Phil Connors!
PHIL
his is Ned Ryerson. He's an
NED
He remenbers me!
Phil and Rita keep walking.
RITA
Did we ever-- you knew?
PHIL
(ceasing)
Did we ever!” You were an animal.
RITA
steps)
Come on.
PHIL
You're European trained, aren't you.
RITA
(blushing)
1 TS net funny.
PHIL
You weren't interested.
RITA
(relieved)
okay.
She begins walking again.
RITA
Not that it would've been so awful
PHIL
1 understand.
RITA
2 just had to know whether to smack
you or not.
PHIL
You did.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED:
NED
Hey, Phil! Phil Connors!
PHIL
his is Ned Ryerson. He's an
NED
He remenbers me!
Phil and Rita keep walking.
RITA
Did we ever-- you knew?
PHIL
(ceasing)
Did we ever!” You were an animal.
RITA
steps)
Come on.
PHIL
You're European trained, aren't you.
RITA
(blushing)
1 TS net funny.
PHIL
You weren't interested.
RITA
(relieved)
okay.
She begins walking again.
RITA
Not that it would've been so awful
PHIL
1 understand.
RITA
2 just had to know whether to smack
you or not.
PHIL
You did.
(CONTINUED)
-99-
are
Good. BEEN
cur to:
252 ENT. PARK - A LITTLE LATER
Phil and Rite are sitting on a park bench.
PHIL
So do you believe any of this?
RITA
Z don’t know. I don't know how else
you could know so much. Maybe it 18
eally heppening.
E
1 used to try co stay up all night
sometimes, = thought if 1 could
Stay conscious 1 could figure out
what was going on, or at least hang
¿nto Something from the day before.
But I gave up on that a tong time
290.
looks at him with compassion.
RITA
It sounds so:
lonely.
PHIL
(erying to shrug it off)
It's not that bad. You get used to
it.
arma
be 1 should spend che
Say sin yours ab an She
witness. "Just Eo See what happens.
PHIL,
Yooh, sure. That'é be very
scientific.
cur 70:
154 INT. PRIL'S ROOM - NIGHT 154
eying card flies past, à
O the hat. Another playing
A bat Js lying on Phil's des. AE
Becons playing card seilo right
Sed sells’ pase, missing:
(CONTINUED)
are
Good. BEEN
cur to:
252 ENT. PARK - A LITTLE LATER
Phil and Rite are sitting on a park bench.
PHIL
So do you believe any of this?
RITA
Z don’t know. I don't know how else
you could know so much. Maybe it 18
eally heppening.
E
1 used to try co stay up all night
sometimes, = thought if 1 could
Stay conscious 1 could figure out
what was going on, or at least hang
¿nto Something from the day before.
But I gave up on that a tong time
290.
looks at him with compassion.
RITA
It sounds so:
lonely.
PHIL
(erying to shrug it off)
It's not that bad. You get used to
it.
arma
be 1 should spend che
Say sin yours ab an She
witness. "Just Eo See what happens.
PHIL,
Yooh, sure. That'é be very
scientific.
cur 70:
154 INT. PRIL'S ROOM - NIGHT 154
eying card flies past, à
O the hat. Another playing
A bat Js lying on Phil's des. AE
Becons playing card seilo right
Sed sells’ pase, missing:
(CONTINUED)
Revised Yellow 3/17/92
-100-
154 CONTINUED: ä
Another playing card sails right in, Phil and Rita are tossing
Cards. Rita is missing. Phil is hiteing.
PHIL
+s not in the wrist so much as
the fingers. Be the hat.
PHIL
Un-un. Six months. Four, five
hours a day.
RITA
Is this what you do with eternity?
PHIL
Now you know. It's like waiting
for à bus that never comes. You
should see me play pool-- and
bowling, juggling, hacky sack. 1
can ride à unicycle.
Rita takes a slice of pizza from the box on the table.
RITA
BO. Pepperoni and olives, My À
favorite, of course. Doesn't :
knowing everything kind of take =
the fun out of things? E
PHIL fs
‘That's not che worst part.
RITA
What's the worst part?
PHIL
The worst part is that tomorrow
you won't remember any of this.
You'li go back to treating me like
a complete jerk--
(CONTINCED)
-100-
154 CONTINUED: ä
Another playing card sails right in, Phil and Rita are tossing
Cards. Rita is missing. Phil is hiteing.
PHIL
+s not in the wrist so much as
the fingers. Be the hat.
PHIL
Un-un. Six months. Four, five
hours a day.
RITA
Is this what you do with eternity?
PHIL
Now you know. It's like waiting
for à bus that never comes. You
should see me play pool-- and
bowling, juggling, hacky sack. 1
can ride à unicycle.
Rita takes a slice of pizza from the box on the table.
RITA
BO. Pepperoni and olives, My À
favorite, of course. Doesn't :
knowing everything kind of take =
the fun out of things? E
PHIL fs
‘That's not che worst part.
RITA
What's the worst part?
PHIL
The worst part is that tomorrow
you won't remember any of this.
You'li go back to treating me like
a complete jerk--
(CONTINCED)
RITA
No--
PHIL
it's not your faulc. I ama jerk.
RITA
No, you're not.
PHIL
Okay, Tm not. It really doesn't
make a loc of difference. I've
Killed myself so many times, I don't
even exist anymore. I'm Just
completely empty.
RITA
Sometimes I wish I had a thousand
Jitecimes. One to be a great
Journalist. One to, T don't know,
go back to school, study art, or
Physics or something. One just to
Lake care of all the busywork, you
know, pay the bills, get my car
cuneë up. One to be the wild woman
of Borneo. One co be Mother
Theresa. Maybe it's not a curse,
Phil. it all Just depends on how
you look at it.
3 ae be th: ii
1# you're going to be this positive
ai"the tine 1 may have to rough you
ESSE
phil stares at her for a long time then he belches really loud.
sta stares at him, then burps surprisingly loud herself.
RITA
1 want you to know, it's been a
really hice day for me.
PRIL
Me, too.
RITA
Maybe, if it's not too boring for
you, we could do it again.
PHIL
1 hope so.
The clock reads 11:59. Rita grabs Phil's hand. He pute his ar
(CONTINUED)
No--
PHIL
it's not your faulc. I ama jerk.
RITA
No, you're not.
PHIL
Okay, Tm not. It really doesn't
make a loc of difference. I've
Killed myself so many times, I don't
even exist anymore. I'm Just
completely empty.
RITA
Sometimes I wish I had a thousand
Jitecimes. One to be a great
Journalist. One to, T don't know,
go back to school, study art, or
Physics or something. One just to
Lake care of all the busywork, you
know, pay the bills, get my car
cuneë up. One to be the wild woman
of Borneo. One co be Mother
Theresa. Maybe it's not a curse,
Phil. it all Just depends on how
you look at it.
3 ae be th: ii
1# you're going to be this positive
ai"the tine 1 may have to rough you
ESSE
phil stares at her for a long time then he belches really loud.
sta stares at him, then burps surprisingly loud herself.
RITA
1 want you to know, it's been a
really hice day for me.
PRIL
Me, too.
RITA
Maybe, if it's not too boring for
you, we could do it again.
PHIL
1 hope so.
The clock reads 11:59. Rita grabs Phil's hand. He pute his ar
(CONTINUED)
154
CONTINUED:
They lock into each others’ eyes
‘She squeezes his hand, Their eyes turn to
smile.
11:59 turns to 1
Rita looks up at Phil as if expecting some magical
0.
RITA
You're still her
PRIL
1 know.
RITA
ou Were supposed to
Or 1 was oF something.
PERIL
cil six.
RITA
You rat!
She is mad in a playful way.
RITA .
You knew 7 was waiting for midnight!
PRIL
But I never said it.
RITA
Oh, 1 can't believe you!
(she slugs him with a
Pillow)
I didn't know this was going to take
all night
PHIL
Does that mean you're going?
RITA
No.
Phil takes Rita's hand. She doesn't resist.
DISSOLVE 10:
Rita gives Phil a reassuring
the clock,
CONTINUED:
They lock into each others’ eyes
‘She squeezes his hand, Their eyes turn to
smile.
11:59 turns to 1
Rita looks up at Phil as if expecting some magical
0.
RITA
You're still her
PRIL
1 know.
RITA
ou Were supposed to
Or 1 was oF something.
PERIL
cil six.
RITA
You rat!
She is mad in a playful way.
RITA .
You knew 7 was waiting for midnight!
PRIL
But I never said it.
RITA
Oh, 1 can't believe you!
(she slugs him with a
Pillow)
I didn't know this was going to take
all night
PHIL
Does that mean you're going?
RITA
No.
Phil takes Rita's hand. She doesn't resist.
DISSOLVE 10:
Rita gives Phil a reassuring
the clock,
LATER
Rita is now sitting right next to Phil on the bed. her head
Testing on his shoulder. She neds off then catches herself
RITA
i'm sorry.
PHIL
It's okay to go to sleep you know.
1 promise 2 wen't touch you-- much.
RITA
No, it's all right. I'm not tired.
whee were you saying?
Her eyes start to close again.
PHIL,
3 was saying that the cow was
eventually returned to its rightful
owner.
RITA
(rifting off)
Really?
That's right
He looks at her, sees she's truly asleep, and genzly maneuvers
her into a comfortable reclining position on the bed. Then he
ggrefully’ puts a pillow under her head and setties dow next to
er.
PEL
going to say was, 1 think
dest, sweetest,
most wonderful girl 1
am life.
what 7
you"
pretties
She starts to stir but he gently kisses her back to sleep.
PHIL
Shhhh. That's good,
isatistiea she's still
asleep)
1 could never tell you this, but
{rom the first minute 1 looked at
you 1 just wanted to hold you close
And be with you forever,
re again but he kisses her until she returns to deep
(CONTINUED)
Rita is now sitting right next to Phil on the bed. her head
Testing on his shoulder. She neds off then catches herself
RITA
i'm sorry.
PHIL
It's okay to go to sleep you know.
1 promise 2 wen't touch you-- much.
RITA
No, it's all right. I'm not tired.
whee were you saying?
Her eyes start to close again.
PHIL,
3 was saying that the cow was
eventually returned to its rightful
owner.
RITA
(rifting off)
Really?
That's right
He looks at her, sees she's truly asleep, and genzly maneuvers
her into a comfortable reclining position on the bed. Then he
ggrefully’ puts a pillow under her head and setties dow next to
er.
PEL
going to say was, 1 think
dest, sweetest,
most wonderful girl 1
am life.
what 7
you"
pretties
She starts to stir but he gently kisses her back to sleep.
PHIL
Shhhh. That's good,
isatistiea she's still
asleep)
1 could never tell you this, but
{rom the first minute 1 looked at
you 1 just wanted to hold you close
And be with you forever,
re again but he kisses her until she returns to deep
(CONTINUED)
157
-104-
CONTINUE:
nn
2 know 7 coulé never deserve someone
like you, bur if ever I could, I
swear 1 would love you for the rest
of my life.
Rita opens her eyes.
RITA
(hal£-asleep) |
Did you say something?
PEIL,
Yeah. Good-night, Rita.
He kisses her gently on the forehead.
RITA.
Good-night, Phil.
CLOSE UP - THE CLOCK
The time changes from 5:59 to 6:00. The radio starts playing.
Phil wakes up alone in bed. He lies there for a moment then
leaps out of bed Like a man reborn and heads straight for the
cor
EXT. TOWN SQUARE - A BIT LATER 157
enters the square heading for the knob and sees Old Jensen
S usual place. This time Phil stops and hands him all che
money in his pocket.
NED (0.¢.1
Hey, Phil! Phil Connors!
As Ned approaches Phil turns and automatically slugs him, He
Starts Eo walk away but some better impulse comes over hin and
he turns back to Ned.
PHIL
(helping him to his
feet)
Jim sorry. Are you all right? 1
thought you were this horrible guy
T'weat ce high school with== Ned
Ryerson
(CONTINUED)
-104-
CONTINUE:
nn
2 know 7 coulé never deserve someone
like you, bur if ever I could, I
swear 1 would love you for the rest
of my life.
Rita opens her eyes.
RITA
(hal£-asleep) |
Did you say something?
PEIL,
Yeah. Good-night, Rita.
He kisses her gently on the forehead.
RITA.
Good-night, Phil.
CLOSE UP - THE CLOCK
The time changes from 5:59 to 6:00. The radio starts playing.
Phil wakes up alone in bed. He lies there for a moment then
leaps out of bed Like a man reborn and heads straight for the
cor
EXT. TOWN SQUARE - A BIT LATER 157
enters the square heading for the knob and sees Old Jensen
S usual place. This time Phil stops and hands him all che
money in his pocket.
NED (0.¢.1
Hey, Phil! Phil Connors!
As Ned approaches Phil turns and automatically slugs him, He
Starts Eo walk away but some better impulse comes over hin and
he turns back to Ned.
PHIL
(helping him to his
feet)
Jim sorry. Are you all right? 1
thought you were this horrible guy
T'weat ce high school with== Ned
Ryerson
(CONTINUED)
157
Revised Pink 3/13/92
-105-
£ Ken il
(feeling his jew
No, never heard of him.
Ned exits in a hurry as Phil continues to the Knob.
cur To:
EXT. GOBBLER'S KNOB - DAWN 258
Rita and Larry are in the packed press area, beginning to set up
the equipment.
Phil arrives on time, carrying two cups of coffee.
PRI
Rica?
She looks at him without a trace of the rapport they shared the
night before.
RITA
Oh, hi, Phil.
PHIL
‘Thought you might like some--
He hands her the coffee.
RITA
‘Thanks!
PHIL
Careful, it's hot. Larry?
He hands Larry a cup.
PHIL
Larry, skimmed milk--two sugars.
LARRY
(surprised, mutters) 8
Yeah, great. Thank you.
RITA
We're just setting up.
PAIL
You knew, Z bumped into Buster
Greep he Kind of runs chis thing,
Gna he tipped ma off chat we might
get a better shot over there.
(CONTINUED)
Revised Pink 3/13/92
-105-
£ Ken il
(feeling his jew
No, never heard of him.
Ned exits in a hurry as Phil continues to the Knob.
cur To:
EXT. GOBBLER'S KNOB - DAWN 258
Rita and Larry are in the packed press area, beginning to set up
the equipment.
Phil arrives on time, carrying two cups of coffee.
PRI
Rica?
She looks at him without a trace of the rapport they shared the
night before.
RITA
Oh, hi, Phil.
PHIL
‘Thought you might like some--
He hands her the coffee.
RITA
‘Thanks!
PHIL
Careful, it's hot. Larry?
He hands Larry a cup.
PHIL
Larry, skimmed milk--two sugars.
LARRY
(surprised, mutters) 8
Yeah, great. Thank you.
RITA
We're just setting up.
PAIL
You knew, Z bumped into Buster
Greep he Kind of runs chis thing,
Gna he tipped ma off chat we might
get a better shot over there.
(CONTINUED)
158
159
Revised Pink 3/13/92
-106-
CONTINUED:
RITA
Really?
PHIL
Y mean, maybe we should go for it.
Wat do you think?
RITA
Sounds good to me.
PHIL,
Larry?
LARRY
Sure, why not?
RITA
All right. Thanks, Phil. Good
work.
She reaches for an equipment case.
PHIL
T/L1 get that.
Phil helps Larry carry the canera gear
er
(to LE)
We never tale You got kids,
terry?
LARRY
No I have a cat. Alfie.
PHIL
ls it male or female?
LARRY
He's male
Larry looks suspicious. Rita looks on, re-evaluating Phil.
cur ro:
INT. LIBRARY - DAY u
Phil enters the library, approaches the Librarian.
PEIL
Where would 1 find the Philosophy
section?
(CONTINUED)
159
159
Revised Pink 3/13/92
-106-
CONTINUED:
RITA
Really?
PHIL
Y mean, maybe we should go for it.
Wat do you think?
RITA
Sounds good to me.
PHIL,
Larry?
LARRY
Sure, why not?
RITA
All right. Thanks, Phil. Good
work.
She reaches for an equipment case.
PHIL
T/L1 get that.
Phil helps Larry carry the canera gear
er
(to LE)
We never tale You got kids,
terry?
LARRY
No I have a cat. Alfie.
PHIL
ls it male or female?
LARRY
He's male
Larry looks suspicious. Rita looks on, re-evaluating Phil.
cur ro:
INT. LIBRARY - DAY u
Phil enters the library, approaches the Librarian.
PEIL
Where would 1 find the Philosophy
section?
(CONTINUED)
159
160
Revised Pink 3/13/92
068
CONTINUED: 258
LIBRARIAN, E
Down and to the left, 600's.
Phil disappears into the stacks.
INT. LIBRARY - ANOTHER DAY 160
Fhil is reading one of a huge pile of books on the table in
front of hin.
Revised Pink 3/13/92
068
CONTINUED: 258
LIBRARIAN, E
Down and to the left, 600's.
Phil disappears into the stacks.
INT. LIBRARY - ANOTHER DAY 160
Fhil is reading one of a huge pile of books on the table in
front of hin.
LL ae
162
162
164
-107-
CU - LIBRARY CLOCK
The hands start spinning faster and faster.
cur 70:
Phil is at his usual table, his nose in a book. The organ lady
BE playing a particularly Sbnoxious version of -Rainareps Keep
Failing On My Head." Phil looks up from his book and winces
cur To:
EXT. A HOUSE - DAY
Phil rings the doorbell, À kindly young woman, MARY, answers.
MARY
Yes?
PRIL
i'd like a piano lesson, please.
MARY
Oh. okay, I'm with a student now,
But--
PEIL
I'll give you a thousand dollars
Maxy hesitates only a moment, then ushers Phil into the house
and closes the door.
A moment later the door opens and a LITTLE GIRL with an armload
of music books exits as if pushed. The door closes behind her.
cur no:
INT. HALLWAY - DAWN 264
Phil walks happily down the hallway. He passes che chubby man.
CHUBBY MAN
Morning.
PAIL
Buon Giorno, signore.
(CONTINUED)
162
162
164
-107-
CU - LIBRARY CLOCK
The hands start spinning faster and faster.
cur 70:
Phil is at his usual table, his nose in a book. The organ lady
BE playing a particularly Sbnoxious version of -Rainareps Keep
Failing On My Head." Phil looks up from his book and winces
cur To:
EXT. A HOUSE - DAY
Phil rings the doorbell, À kindly young woman, MARY, answers.
MARY
Yes?
PRIL
i'd like a piano lesson, please.
MARY
Oh. okay, I'm with a student now,
But--
PEIL
I'll give you a thousand dollars
Maxy hesitates only a moment, then ushers Phil into the house
and closes the door.
A moment later the door opens and a LITTLE GIRL with an armload
of music books exits as if pushed. The door closes behind her.
cur no:
INT. HALLWAY - DAWN 264
Phil walks happily down the hallway. He passes che chubby man.
CHUBBY MAN
Morning.
PAIL
Buon Giorno, signore.
(CONTINUED)
-108-
165
166
168
CHUBBY MAN
(Qoudly over-
articulating, as if to
à foreigner)
THINK TT'LL BE AN EARLY SPRING?
PEIL
"Winter slumbering in the open air
wears on his smiling face a dream of
Sprang.”
CHuBRY MAN
on.
cur 10:
INT. MARY'S HOUSE - DAY
Phil and Mary
playing, poorly.
sitting together at the piano. FI
may
Not bad, Mr. Connors. You say this
is your first lesson?
PHIL
Technically, yes.
Phil plays on, definitely improving.
cur ro:
INT. LIBRARY - DAY
We see several cuts of Phil studying at the library.
SUPERED over these cuts is a calendar with
flapping by. They all read "February 2.
EXT. GOBBLER'S KNOB - DAMN
Phil stands in front of the camera, giving his report.
face, che ground a
Ip fact, che groundhog's Legende:
DS ES" SrEBRER ERE weather may
De more than Just German folklore.
‘moze
(CONTINUED)
166
167
168
165
166
168
CHUBBY MAN
(Qoudly over-
articulating, as if to
à foreigner)
THINK TT'LL BE AN EARLY SPRING?
PEIL
"Winter slumbering in the open air
wears on his smiling face a dream of
Sprang.”
CHuBRY MAN
on.
cur 10:
INT. MARY'S HOUSE - DAY
Phil and Mary
playing, poorly.
sitting together at the piano. FI
may
Not bad, Mr. Connors. You say this
is your first lesson?
PHIL
Technically, yes.
Phil plays on, definitely improving.
cur ro:
INT. LIBRARY - DAY
We see several cuts of Phil studying at the library.
SUPERED over these cuts is a calendar with
flapping by. They all read "February 2.
EXT. GOBBLER'S KNOB - DAMN
Phil stands in front of the camera, giving his report.
face, che ground a
Ip fact, che groundhog's Legende:
DS ES" SrEBRER ERE weather may
De more than Just German folklore.
‘moze
(CONTINUED)
166
167
168
Revised Yellow 3/17/92
-109-
PHIL
Higher temperatures trigger
hormonal changes, in raie
groundhogs, which wakes them from
Nibernation and sends chem out to
battle wich other males for mating
rights. So, the truth is they're
fot looking for their shadows,
Ehey're looking for groundnog :
Rita looks on, clearly delighted with the report.
cur no:
169 INT. MARY'S HOUSE - DAY
Phil is playing the piano with ever increasing skill as more
February 2nd calendar pages flip by.
cur To:
170 EXT. GOBBLER'S KNOB - DAWN
Phil is delivering another report.
PHIL
Groundhog Day, February second,
also known as Candiemas Day or the
Feast of the Purification of the
Virgin Mary, che day Mary first
came to the temple for ritual
Blessings following the birth of
the infant Jesus, and celebrated
Since the Middle Ages by the
Sacramental Lighting of
candles...
Larry whispers to Rita.
LARRY
Te he making this stuff up?
RITA
(riveted)
shhhhh.
cur 10:
-109-
PHIL
Higher temperatures trigger
hormonal changes, in raie
groundhogs, which wakes them from
Nibernation and sends chem out to
battle wich other males for mating
rights. So, the truth is they're
fot looking for their shadows,
Ehey're looking for groundnog :
Rita looks on, clearly delighted with the report.
cur no:
169 INT. MARY'S HOUSE - DAY
Phil is playing the piano with ever increasing skill as more
February 2nd calendar pages flip by.
cur To:
170 EXT. GOBBLER'S KNOB - DAWN
Phil is delivering another report.
PHIL
Groundhog Day, February second,
also known as Candiemas Day or the
Feast of the Purification of the
Virgin Mary, che day Mary first
came to the temple for ritual
Blessings following the birth of
the infant Jesus, and celebrated
Since the Middle Ages by the
Sacramental Lighting of
candles...
Larry whispers to Rita.
LARRY
Te he making this stuff up?
RITA
(riveted)
shhhhh.
cur 10:
-110-
171 EXT. TOWN SQUARE - DAY
Larry and Rita are at the cider stand talking, when the sound of
a chain saw attracts their attention. Rita turns with sur)
to see Phil working on a very elaborate statue, ice chips Flying
Inco his face, He is concentrating very hard, trying to ger ic
right. Rita doesn’t know what to think:
cur to:
172 EXT. MAIN STREET - LATER
Phil is heading for his piano lesson when he finds himself face
to face with Ned Ryerson
NED
Phil! Phil Connors! - I thought that
was you!
PHIL
Ned? Ned Ryerson! I don't believe
it. I've missed you so much.
Phil gives Ned a big hug and keeps holding on for an
uncomfortably long time. Ned goes into homophobic shock.
NED
Uh, 1 gotta get going. Nice to see
you, Phil.
He hurries off.
cur mo.
173 INT. MARY'S HOUSE - DAY 73
Phil is sitting on the piano bench with Mary, playing pretty
well. Mary is astonished.
Mary
How long have you been studying, Mr.
Connors?
PREL
Just today.
cur To:
174 EXT. STREET - DAY ‚m
Phil is walking down the street, He glances down the alley as
he passes, stops, walks back and enters che acley.
(CONTINUED)
171 EXT. TOWN SQUARE - DAY
Larry and Rita are at the cider stand talking, when the sound of
a chain saw attracts their attention. Rita turns with sur)
to see Phil working on a very elaborate statue, ice chips Flying
Inco his face, He is concentrating very hard, trying to ger ic
right. Rita doesn’t know what to think:
cur to:
172 EXT. MAIN STREET - LATER
Phil is heading for his piano lesson when he finds himself face
to face with Ned Ryerson
NED
Phil! Phil Connors! - I thought that
was you!
PHIL
Ned? Ned Ryerson! I don't believe
it. I've missed you so much.
Phil gives Ned a big hug and keeps holding on for an
uncomfortably long time. Ned goes into homophobic shock.
NED
Uh, 1 gotta get going. Nice to see
you, Phil.
He hurries off.
cur mo.
173 INT. MARY'S HOUSE - DAY 73
Phil is sitting on the piano bench with Mary, playing pretty
well. Mary is astonished.
Mary
How long have you been studying, Mr.
Connors?
PREL
Just today.
cur To:
174 EXT. STREET - DAY ‚m
Phil is walking down the street, He glances down the alley as
he passes, stops, walks back and enters che acley.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: =
4 Jensen, the homeless man that Phil never noticed before is
hing there, huddied against a wall. Phil goes to help him.
PHIL
Hey, mister. ‘Hey. Come on, let's
get you somewhere warm.
Le old bum turns to look at Phil, then closes his eyes.
PHIL
(helps the old man to
his feet)
There you go.
1 practically carries him out of the alley.
cur To:
175 INT, HOSPITAL EMERGENCY ROOM - NIGHT
A nurse approaches Phil
NURSE
You the one brought in the old man?
PHIL,
How is hei
NURSE
He passed away just now.
Phil pauses for a long moment.
PHIL
What'd he die of?
NURSE
Sf old. It was his tine.
PHIL
1 want Lo see his chart. Excuse me.
s past her and makes for the big double doors leading
NURSE
Sir, you can't--
(hurrying after him)
Look! "Some people just die!
(CONTINUED)
4 Jensen, the homeless man that Phil never noticed before is
hing there, huddied against a wall. Phil goes to help him.
PHIL
Hey, mister. ‘Hey. Come on, let's
get you somewhere warm.
Le old bum turns to look at Phil, then closes his eyes.
PHIL
(helps the old man to
his feet)
There you go.
1 practically carries him out of the alley.
cur To:
175 INT, HOSPITAL EMERGENCY ROOM - NIGHT
A nurse approaches Phil
NURSE
You the one brought in the old man?
PHIL,
How is hei
NURSE
He passed away just now.
Phil pauses for a long moment.
PHIL
What'd he die of?
NURSE
Sf old. It was his tine.
PHIL
1 want Lo see his chart. Excuse me.
s past her and makes for the big double doors leading
NURSE
Sir, you can't--
(hurrying after him)
Look! "Some people just die!
(CONTINUED)
176
177
178
ms
112-
CONTINUED:
»
Not on my watch.
cur 70:
INT. DINER - AFTERNOON 276
Phil is propping up the old man at a table, trying to feed him
hot soup.
eur To:
INT. HOSPITAL LIBRARY - DAY
Phil is furiously locking over X-rays, £1
journals and making notes.
ipping through medical
cur to:
se
Phil is in the alley, shaking the old man, trying to rouse him.
ALLEY - NIGHT 178
PHIL
Come on. Hang on. Hang on, there.
Breathe.
Phil stops. The body
heavily.
8, unmoving. Phil sits back, breathing
cur 70:
EXT. GOBBLER'S KNOB - DAWN 179
Phil is delivering his report. Everyone there is silent and
listening to Phil, Even the Other reporters have turned their
Cameras on him.
PHIL
::-When Chekhov saw the long winter,
it'uas a winter bleak and dark and
bereft of hope; and yet, we know
winter's only one more step in the
cycle.
more)
(CONTINUED)
177
178
ms
112-
CONTINUED:
»
Not on my watch.
cur 70:
INT. DINER - AFTERNOON 276
Phil is propping up the old man at a table, trying to feed him
hot soup.
eur To:
INT. HOSPITAL LIBRARY - DAY
Phil is furiously locking over X-rays, £1
journals and making notes.
ipping through medical
cur to:
se
Phil is in the alley, shaking the old man, trying to rouse him.
ALLEY - NIGHT 178
PHIL
Come on. Hang on. Hang on, there.
Breathe.
Phil stops. The body
heavily.
8, unmoving. Phil sits back, breathing
cur 70:
EXT. GOBBLER'S KNOB - DAWN 179
Phil is delivering his report. Everyone there is silent and
listening to Phil, Even the Other reporters have turned their
Cameras on him.
PHIL
::-When Chekhov saw the long winter,
it'uas a winter bleak and dark and
bereft of hope; and yet, we know
winter's only one more step in the
cycle.
more)
(CONTINUED)
Revised Pink 3/13/92
-113-
179 — CONTINUED:
And standing among the people of *
Punxsutawney-=
(Pail looks directly at
Rita)
--kasking in the warmth of their
hearths and hearts, 1 couldn'c
imagine a better fate than a long
and lustrous winter.
Phil smiles. Rita smiles, too.
PHIL
For Channel 9 news, I'm Phil
Connors.
There is much applause. Even Larry brushes away a tear.
paz
Okay for you two?
RITA
Yeah.
LARRY
Phil, you touched me man. Thanks.
PHIL
Gotta go.
Phil hands the microphone to Rita and walks away.
Phil!
She catches up to him still carrying the microphone.
RITA
That was kind of-- surprising. 1
didn't know you were so--
versatile
PHIL
I surprise myself sometimes.
she runs out of microphone cable and is jerked back. she
Suickly unplugs the mike and eontinues walking with him.
RITA
Were’re you going now? Maybe we
could ger a cup of coffee or
Something.
PHIL,
1’4 love chat, maybe later. I’ve
Got some errands to run.
(CONTINUED)
-113-
179 — CONTINUED:
And standing among the people of *
Punxsutawney-=
(Pail looks directly at
Rita)
--kasking in the warmth of their
hearths and hearts, 1 couldn'c
imagine a better fate than a long
and lustrous winter.
Phil smiles. Rita smiles, too.
PHIL
For Channel 9 news, I'm Phil
Connors.
There is much applause. Even Larry brushes away a tear.
paz
Okay for you two?
RITA
Yeah.
LARRY
Phil, you touched me man. Thanks.
PHIL
Gotta go.
Phil hands the microphone to Rita and walks away.
Phil!
She catches up to him still carrying the microphone.
RITA
That was kind of-- surprising. 1
didn't know you were so--
versatile
PHIL
I surprise myself sometimes.
she runs out of microphone cable and is jerked back. she
Suickly unplugs the mike and eontinues walking with him.
RITA
Were’re you going now? Maybe we
could ger a cup of coffee or
Something.
PHIL,
1’4 love chat, maybe later. I’ve
Got some errands to run.
(CONTINUED)
Revised Fink
rere
179 — CONTINUED:
Phil rushes off.
RITA
(calls after him)
Errands? Here? What errands?
Aren't we going back?
cur To:
3/13/92
rere
179 — CONTINUED:
Phil rushes off.
RITA
(calls after him)
Errands? Here? What errands?
Aren't we going back?
cur To:
3/13/92
160
EXT. STREET CORNER - DAY
Phil walks briskly towarc
his watch.
an intersection, glancing nervously az
MARIE, a little nine-year-old girl, approaches the intersection
shielding her brand new puppy under her winter coat. She isn't
paying attention to traffic and fails to notice a big truck
Bearing down on her.
As she steps off the curb, Phil arrives and, with split-second
timing, nonchalantly put firmly grabs her coat to hold her back,
Jos: ds the Dig truck rushes past in the street, nerrowly
missing her.
PRIL
Hey! Did you forget to look both
ways? You didn't even look one way.
MARIE
My doggie was cold.
PHIL
Yeah, well, my doggies are freezing,
but i'm still gonna watch out for
Cars. See you around, kid.
Phil looks at his watch and rushes off
cor mo:
EXT. STREET - DAY 48:
A car carrying three OLD LADIES runs over a board in the road
and pops a tite. The driver, GERTIE, reacts.
GERTIE
oh, my.
RUBY
You've totalled it.
SARA.
It's just a flat tire
GERTIE
1 better call someone.
As Gertie begins to get out, the car starts bouncing, already
being hoisted up into the air on a jack.
She looks down to see Phil happily changing her tir
cur 70:
EXT. STREET CORNER - DAY
Phil walks briskly towarc
his watch.
an intersection, glancing nervously az
MARIE, a little nine-year-old girl, approaches the intersection
shielding her brand new puppy under her winter coat. She isn't
paying attention to traffic and fails to notice a big truck
Bearing down on her.
As she steps off the curb, Phil arrives and, with split-second
timing, nonchalantly put firmly grabs her coat to hold her back,
Jos: ds the Dig truck rushes past in the street, nerrowly
missing her.
PRIL
Hey! Did you forget to look both
ways? You didn't even look one way.
MARIE
My doggie was cold.
PHIL
Yeah, well, my doggies are freezing,
but i'm still gonna watch out for
Cars. See you around, kid.
Phil looks at his watch and rushes off
cor mo:
EXT. STREET - DAY 48:
A car carrying three OLD LADIES runs over a board in the road
and pops a tite. The driver, GERTIE, reacts.
GERTIE
oh, my.
RUBY
You've totalled it.
SARA.
It's just a flat tire
GERTIE
1 better call someone.
As Gertie begins to get out, the car starts bouncing, already
being hoisted up into the air on a jack.
She looks down to see Phil happily changing her tir
cur 70:
182
INT. BERGHOF RESTAURANT - DAY
Phil enters the crowded restaurant and pushes past all the
people waiting to be seated. He walks casually, but quickly and
purposefully around the tables, squeezing past Susy waitresses
Bnd seated patrons. Without missing a beat or losing a step, he
automatically lights someone's cigarette, helps someone on with
their coat and brings water to a table, all the tame heading
toward some commotion in the back of the restaurant.
A WOMAN and her two grown children, a SON and a DAUGHTER, are
leaning over her husband who is prostrate on the floor. t's
Buster Green, the groundhog official, still wearing his
tailcoat.
OMAN
Ob; my, Sod! He's having a heart
DAUGHTER
Somebody please help us!
son
What do 1 do? He's not breathing!
WOMAN
He's turning blue! Help!
Phil walks straight up to che scene, pulls Buster up to a
‘ting position, grabs him from behind in the Heimlich grip ané
squeezes sharply.
A bolus of food flies across the room. Buster coughs and
Sputters, then starts breaching again.
DAUGHTER
You okay, Daddy?
son
1 chink that did ic.
Phil’ lets go of the grateful victim.
PHIL
1£ you're going co eat steak, get
better teeth, will you? Enjoy the
rest of your lunch,” folks.
He exits.
cur To:
INT. BERGHOF RESTAURANT - DAY
Phil enters the crowded restaurant and pushes past all the
people waiting to be seated. He walks casually, but quickly and
purposefully around the tables, squeezing past Susy waitresses
Bnd seated patrons. Without missing a beat or losing a step, he
automatically lights someone's cigarette, helps someone on with
their coat and brings water to a table, all the tame heading
toward some commotion in the back of the restaurant.
A WOMAN and her two grown children, a SON and a DAUGHTER, are
leaning over her husband who is prostrate on the floor. t's
Buster Green, the groundhog official, still wearing his
tailcoat.
OMAN
Ob; my, Sod! He's having a heart
DAUGHTER
Somebody please help us!
son
What do 1 do? He's not breathing!
WOMAN
He's turning blue! Help!
Phil walks straight up to che scene, pulls Buster up to a
‘ting position, grabs him from behind in the Heimlich grip ané
squeezes sharply.
A bolus of food flies across the room. Buster coughs and
Sputters, then starts breaching again.
DAUGHTER
You okay, Daddy?
son
1 chink that did ic.
Phil’ lets go of the grateful victim.
PHIL
1£ you're going co eat steak, get
better teeth, will you? Enjoy the
rest of your lunch,” folks.
He exits.
cur To:
183
184
185
-116-
NT. RESIDENTIAL STREET - A LITTLE LATER 2
Phil runs down the sidewalk right up to an old house and puts
his arms out Just as a YOUNG BOY falls off che garage roo and
right into Phil's arms, knocking him to the ground. The kid
runs off unhurt as Phil gets back to his feet and brushes
himself off.
PHIL,
(to himself)
That litcle bastard has never
thanked me once.
fshouts)
Next time I'm letting you fall!
cur To:
CLOSE-UP - A PACKAGE 16
Someone is shakily gift-wrapping a package with ribbon and
having considerable trouble doing it until a hand reaches in and
holds che knc
With an index finger.
cur mo:
EXT. ALLEY - NIGHT 18
Phil kneels on the cold ground beside Old Jensen who lies
huddled against the wall, immobile. He finishes writing
something down on a small pad and sets it down by the old man.
Then he covers him with a blanket and walke away as an
ambulance pulls into the alley.
The paramedics, BUD and ANDY, get out of the ambulance and
inspect the scene.
BuD
It's ol! Jensen.
any
That's a shore.
ED
Look here.
Bud picks up the note Phil left.
(CONTINUED)
184
185
-116-
NT. RESIDENTIAL STREET - A LITTLE LATER 2
Phil runs down the sidewalk right up to an old house and puts
his arms out Just as a YOUNG BOY falls off che garage roo and
right into Phil's arms, knocking him to the ground. The kid
runs off unhurt as Phil gets back to his feet and brushes
himself off.
PHIL,
(to himself)
That litcle bastard has never
thanked me once.
fshouts)
Next time I'm letting you fall!
cur To:
CLOSE-UP - A PACKAGE 16
Someone is shakily gift-wrapping a package with ribbon and
having considerable trouble doing it until a hand reaches in and
holds che knc
With an index finger.
cur mo:
EXT. ALLEY - NIGHT 18
Phil kneels on the cold ground beside Old Jensen who lies
huddled against the wall, immobile. He finishes writing
something down on a small pad and sets it down by the old man.
Then he covers him with a blanket and walke away as an
ambulance pulls into the alley.
The paramedics, BUD and ANDY, get out of the ambulance and
inspect the scene.
BuD
It's ol! Jensen.
any
That's a shore.
ED
Look here.
Bud picks up the note Phil left.
(CONTINUED)
Revised Pink 3/13/92
-117-
BUD
(reading aloud)
sEvery night, by cola bricks
glow,
Í watch the shadow rising
from this old man in the
snow.
ac
02 we ler it go.*
Amy
(repeating)
rat 8:02 we let it go.*
su
Wow, that's nice.
186 INT. PENNSYLVANIAN HOTEL BAR - NIGHT 1e
Larry is at the bar trying to hustle Nancy.
LARRY
..:A lot of people think you just
hold the camera and point it at
stuee.
isnorts)
‘There's a heck of a lot more to it
than that. Hey, would you like to
See the inside of the van?
NANCY.
1 really should get back to the
party.
LARRY
1/11 go with you.
Larry and Nancy encounter Rita on their way back into the bar. *
LARRY
Hi, Rita. ‘You coming to the
patty?
RITA
Sure. Sounds like a lot of fun
Maybe we should call Phil and as
if he wants to come.
nancy,
Phil Connors? 1 think he's
already in there.
They all exit together. *
-117-
BUD
(reading aloud)
sEvery night, by cola bricks
glow,
Í watch the shadow rising
from this old man in the
snow.
ac
02 we ler it go.*
Amy
(repeating)
rat 8:02 we let it go.*
su
Wow, that's nice.
186 INT. PENNSYLVANIAN HOTEL BAR - NIGHT 1e
Larry is at the bar trying to hustle Nancy.
LARRY
..:A lot of people think you just
hold the camera and point it at
stuee.
isnorts)
‘There's a heck of a lot more to it
than that. Hey, would you like to
See the inside of the van?
NANCY.
1 really should get back to the
party.
LARRY
1/11 go with you.
Larry and Nancy encounter Rita on their way back into the bar. *
LARRY
Hi, Rita. ‘You coming to the
patty?
RITA
Sure. Sounds like a lot of fun
Maybe we should call Phil and as
if he wants to come.
nancy,
Phil Connors? 1 think he's
already in there.
They all exit together. *
187
288
Revised cherry 5/12/92
-118-
OMITTED 18
INT. RANQUET ROOM - CONTINDOUS 18
A wild groundhog party is going on. People of all ages, just
About everybody we have sean previously In Punxautamiey 19 here
tonignt... The Yoon la gaily decorated with banners and grounshog
signs. The band is really kicked up and everybody in dancing.
fafry and Nancy go off to’ get some punch.
A crowd is gathered around the bandstand listening to an
Unusually wild piano solo, Rita presses forward to look and is
amazed to see that the piano player is Phil.
Phil is playing very well, going nuts like Jerry Lee Lewis.
Rita is standing next to Mary, Phil’s piano teacher.
MARY
Isn't he good?
RITA
He's great.
MARY
(proudly)
He's my student.
Phil finishes with a flourish. Everybody applauds. Phil
modestly bows out and Mary resumes her place with the band. *
The band starts up again, a slow piece. Phil spots Rita and
comes down to her.
PHIL
Hey! Welcome to the party!
RITA
Phil, Z didn’t know you could play
Like’ that.
PRTL
I'm versatile.
She laughs. He takes her hand and they start dancing.
PHIL
Did you have a good day?
288
Revised cherry 5/12/92
-118-
OMITTED 18
INT. RANQUET ROOM - CONTINDOUS 18
A wild groundhog party is going on. People of all ages, just
About everybody we have sean previously In Punxautamiey 19 here
tonignt... The Yoon la gaily decorated with banners and grounshog
signs. The band is really kicked up and everybody in dancing.
fafry and Nancy go off to’ get some punch.
A crowd is gathered around the bandstand listening to an
Unusually wild piano solo, Rita presses forward to look and is
amazed to see that the piano player is Phil.
Phil is playing very well, going nuts like Jerry Lee Lewis.
Rita is standing next to Mary, Phil’s piano teacher.
MARY
Isn't he good?
RITA
He's great.
MARY
(proudly)
He's my student.
Phil finishes with a flourish. Everybody applauds. Phil
modestly bows out and Mary resumes her place with the band. *
The band starts up again, a slow piece. Phil spots Rita and
comes down to her.
PHIL
Hey! Welcome to the party!
RITA
Phil, Z didn’t know you could play
Like’ that.
PRTL
I'm versatile.
She laughs. He takes her hand and they start dancing.
PHIL
Did you have a good day?
-119-
18e
RITA
ah, sure. I mean, it's a little
range being stuck here, and all --
Phil laughs and swings her around on the dance floor.
Gertie and Sara, the two old ladies with the flat tire,
dancing together.
GERTIE
Mr. Connors! Thanks again for your
help.
PHIL
My pleasure, ladies
SARA a
He:s got the fastest jack in
Jefferson county.
Phil and Rita dance on.
RITA
What was chat all about?
PHIL
Oh, 2 don't know. They’ve been
hitring on me all night.
Fhil is interrupted by Mrs. Green, Buster's wife
MRS. GREEN
There you are!
she grabs him and gives him a big kiss.
MAS. GREEN
1 never thanked you properly for
wnat you did for Buster. He
would've choked for sure.
PHIL
Well, che guy was trying to swallow
an entire cow.
MRS. GREEN
{to Rite
Hang onto him, dear. He's a real
find.
Mrs. Green moves on. Rita looks at Phil.
(CONTINUED)
18e
RITA
ah, sure. I mean, it's a little
range being stuck here, and all --
Phil laughs and swings her around on the dance floor.
Gertie and Sara, the two old ladies with the flat tire,
dancing together.
GERTIE
Mr. Connors! Thanks again for your
help.
PHIL
My pleasure, ladies
SARA a
He:s got the fastest jack in
Jefferson county.
Phil and Rita dance on.
RITA
What was chat all about?
PHIL
Oh, 2 don't know. They’ve been
hitring on me all night.
Fhil is interrupted by Mrs. Green, Buster's wife
MRS. GREEN
There you are!
she grabs him and gives him a big kiss.
MAS. GREEN
1 never thanked you properly for
wnat you did for Buster. He
would've choked for sure.
PHIL
Well, che guy was trying to swallow
an entire cow.
MRS. GREEN
{to Rite
Hang onto him, dear. He's a real
find.
Mrs. Green moves on. Rita looks at Phil.
(CONTINUED)
-120-
RITA
(really confused)
wnat did you do today?
Phi is now accosted by Fred and Debbie Kleiser, very young
newlyweds.
FRED.
Mr. Connors. Excuse me.
PHIL
Fred! How was the wedding?
FRED
1 just wanted to thank you for
making Debbie go though with it and
everything ==
PHIL
Hey, don’t buy that playing hard to
get stuff, she's crazy about you.
DEBBIE
You are the best.
PERIL
Rita, Fred and Debbie
RITA
Hi.
Phil reaches into his pocket, pulls out two tickets and hands
them to Debbie.
PHIL
Congratulations.
DEBBIE
What is this? Oh, no way! No way!
nant
Debbie throws herself on Fred and jumps up and down. Fred grabs
the ticket
FRED
Wrestlemania! No way! No way
Debbie throws herself on Phil.
DEBBIE
How did you know? We're like going
5e be In Pittsburgh anyway.
(CONTINUED)
RITA
(really confused)
wnat did you do today?
Phi is now accosted by Fred and Debbie Kleiser, very young
newlyweds.
FRED.
Mr. Connors. Excuse me.
PHIL
Fred! How was the wedding?
FRED
1 just wanted to thank you for
making Debbie go though with it and
everything ==
PHIL
Hey, don’t buy that playing hard to
get stuff, she's crazy about you.
DEBBIE
You are the best.
PERIL
Rita, Fred and Debbie
RITA
Hi.
Phil reaches into his pocket, pulls out two tickets and hands
them to Debbie.
PHIL
Congratulations.
DEBBIE
What is this? Oh, no way! No way!
nant
Debbie throws herself on Fred and jumps up and down. Fred grabs
the ticket
FRED
Wrestlemania! No way! No way
Debbie throws herself on Phil.
DEBBIE
How did you know? We're like going
5e be In Pittsburgh anyway.
(CONTINUED)
168
-121-
FRED
Thanks, Mr. Connors. You're a real
pal.
DEBBIE
‘This is the best!
Debbie gives Phil a kiss. She and Fred move on. Phil grabs
Rita to continue dancing, but Rita stops.
RITA
1 don't understand.
PHIL
1 know.
RITA
How does everybody know you? 1
mean, you only visit here once a
year but you seem to be the most
popular person in town.
vas
Fabre een. I
RITA,
Doctor Connors?
PHIL
It's like an honorary title
Rita stares at Phil.
The band finishes a si
the refreshments. Ph;
RITA
What’s going on?
+ The guests stop dancing and heed for
and Rita are left alone for the moment.
PHIL
I really don't know.
RITA
No, there's something going on with
you.
PHIL
Okay, you want the long version or
e shore one.
(CONTINUED)
-121-
FRED
Thanks, Mr. Connors. You're a real
pal.
DEBBIE
‘This is the best!
Debbie gives Phil a kiss. She and Fred move on. Phil grabs
Rita to continue dancing, but Rita stops.
RITA
1 don't understand.
PHIL
1 know.
RITA
How does everybody know you? 1
mean, you only visit here once a
year but you seem to be the most
popular person in town.
vas
Fabre een. I
RITA,
Doctor Connors?
PHIL
It's like an honorary title
Rita stares at Phil.
The band finishes a si
the refreshments. Ph;
RITA
What’s going on?
+ The guests stop dancing and heed for
and Rita are left alone for the moment.
PHIL
I really don't know.
RITA
No, there's something going on with
you.
PHIL
Okay, you want the long version or
e shore one.
(CONTINUED)
Revised Cherry 5/12/92
-122-
188 CONTINUED:
RITA
Try the short one and we'll go
from there.
Buster Green mounts the stage to emcee the Bachelor Auction,
BUSTER
Okay, folks. Attention! Time for
the big Bachelor Auction. You all
know the rules now. All the
Ora come up to the
, you bid on ‘en,
you ger to do whatever you want
with em, no questions asked.
(winks Deoadly)
So get out your pocketbooks and
remember, it's ail for charity.
Some on ägw. Any nore bachelors
out there’
Doris accosts Phil.
DORIS
What are you doing down here,
Phil?
PHIL,
Hi, Doris.
DORIS
Get up there. Go on. I got ten
dollars that says you're mine
(to Buster)
Hey, Buster! 1 got your first
victim!
BUSTER
Phil Connors! Get on up here!
Phil smiles at Rita as he gets pushed up to the stage by the
crowd.
A precocious TEEN GIRL turns to her FATHER.
TEEN GIRL
‘that’s the man I want, Daddy.
Rita is totally confused as Buster opens the bidding on Phil.
BUSTER
Now what do 1 hear for this fine
specimine?
ut
-122-
188 CONTINUED:
RITA
Try the short one and we'll go
from there.
Buster Green mounts the stage to emcee the Bachelor Auction,
BUSTER
Okay, folks. Attention! Time for
the big Bachelor Auction. You all
know the rules now. All the
Ora come up to the
, you bid on ‘en,
you ger to do whatever you want
with em, no questions asked.
(winks Deoadly)
So get out your pocketbooks and
remember, it's ail for charity.
Some on ägw. Any nore bachelors
out there’
Doris accosts Phil.
DORIS
What are you doing down here,
Phil?
PHIL,
Hi, Doris.
DORIS
Get up there. Go on. I got ten
dollars that says you're mine
(to Buster)
Hey, Buster! 1 got your first
victim!
BUSTER
Phil Connors! Get on up here!
Phil smiles at Rita as he gets pushed up to the stage by the
crowd.
A precocious TEEN GIRL turns to her FATHER.
TEEN GIRL
‘that’s the man I want, Daddy.
Rita is totally confused as Buster opens the bidding on Phil.
BUSTER
Now what do 1 hear for this fine
specimine?
ut
So 18
189
Green Revised 4724/92
-123-
CONTINUED: 288
GERTIE
Five dollars.
BUSTER
The bidding has begun at five
dollars.
DORIS
ven dollars.
BUSTER
Ten dollars, for Phil Connors?
Why, my necktie cost more than
that.
Rita pulls out her checkbook and thumbs through it.
Larry is watching with Nancy, trying to look suave.
NANCY
(calls out)
Fifteen!
Larry frowns.
ports
‘Twenty!
Buster waits a moment then starts to close the bidding.
BUSTER
[eve twenty dollars bid. Do 1
RITA
‘Three hundred sixty-five dollars
and eighty-eight cents!
Everybody laughs and applauds her boldness. From the stage,
Phil smiles at her.
BUSTER
Okay, bachelors. Who's next?
Larry bounds up on stage and tries his best to look appealing.
cur mo:
EXT, PARK - NIGHT 189
a is sitting on a stone pedestal while Phil carves her imag
out of packed Snow, using only a sharp stick and the heat of his
hands to model the delicate contours of her features.
(CONTINUED)
189
Green Revised 4724/92
-123-
CONTINUED: 288
GERTIE
Five dollars.
BUSTER
The bidding has begun at five
dollars.
DORIS
ven dollars.
BUSTER
Ten dollars, for Phil Connors?
Why, my necktie cost more than
that.
Rita pulls out her checkbook and thumbs through it.
Larry is watching with Nancy, trying to look suave.
NANCY
(calls out)
Fifteen!
Larry frowns.
ports
‘Twenty!
Buster waits a moment then starts to close the bidding.
BUSTER
[eve twenty dollars bid. Do 1
RITA
‘Three hundred sixty-five dollars
and eighty-eight cents!
Everybody laughs and applauds her boldness. From the stage,
Phil smiles at her.
BUSTER
Okay, bachelors. Who's next?
Larry bounds up on stage and tries his best to look appealing.
cur mo:
EXT, PARK - NIGHT 189
a is sitting on a stone pedestal while Phil carves her imag
out of packed Snow, using only a sharp stick and the heat of his
hands to model the delicate contours of her features.
(CONTINUED)
165
190
Green Revised
-124-
CONTINUED:
RITA
I'm getting cold. Do I have to
sit here much longer?
PHIL
I'm just trying to give you your
money's worth. You paid top
dollar.
RITA
I think you were a bargain. Can
1 look now?
PHIL
Almost. I just have to pour some
Cherry ‘syrup on it then we can eat
fet
RITA
I'm freezing. Come on. I want to
see it.
paro
Okay, Let me get it into the
sk
He turns it.
‘They kis:
They kiss
oMITTED
RITA
Oh, Phil. It's beautiful. It's
just amazing, How did you do
that?
PHIL
I know your face so well 1
could've done it with my eyes
closed.
RITA
I don’t know what to say.
PHIL
I do. No matter what happens
tomorrow or for the rest of my
life, I'm happy now because 1 love
you.
RITA,
Phil, 1 think I’m happy, too.
again and exit.
cur 10:
cur 20:
4/24/92
139
290
190
Green Revised
-124-
CONTINUED:
RITA
I'm getting cold. Do I have to
sit here much longer?
PHIL
I'm just trying to give you your
money's worth. You paid top
dollar.
RITA
I think you were a bargain. Can
1 look now?
PHIL
Almost. I just have to pour some
Cherry ‘syrup on it then we can eat
fet
RITA
I'm freezing. Come on. I want to
see it.
paro
Okay, Let me get it into the
sk
He turns it.
‘They kis:
They kiss
oMITTED
RITA
Oh, Phil. It's beautiful. It's
just amazing, How did you do
that?
PHIL
I know your face so well 1
could've done it with my eyes
closed.
RITA
I don’t know what to say.
PHIL
I do. No matter what happens
tomorrow or for the rest of my
life, I'm happy now because 1 love
you.
RITA,
Phil, 1 think I’m happy, too.
again and exit.
cur 10:
cur 20:
4/24/92
139
290
-125-
199 CONTINUED:
RITA
what?
PEIL
Nothing.
They kiss-- a long, deep, soul-stirring kiss.
cur To:
191 CLOSE UP - THE CLOCK 15
The digital clock-radio changes
5:59 to 6:00. “I Got You,
Babe" starts playing.
Phil opens his eyes feeling more bereft than ever.
DEEJAY
(ánterrupting the song)
Not again.
SIDEKICK
can’t get enough of Cher.
DEEJAY
Yeah, but that's way too much of
Seany.
Phil sits up in bed as the deejays continue this new banter. He
looks around the room. Things are different, messier. Then he
gees the covers move. Wide-eyed now, he looks over and sees
Rita waking up, snuggling deep under the cover:
PRIL
(disbelieving)
It's not true, It's not. It can't
be true. Rita? Rita!
RITA
(stretching luxuriously)
Mem, “Morning.
Phil pounces on Rita, showering her with kisses.
PEIL
You're here! My god! I can't
believe you're here!
RITA
Glad to see you, too
(CONTINUED)
199 CONTINUED:
RITA
what?
PEIL
Nothing.
They kiss-- a long, deep, soul-stirring kiss.
cur To:
191 CLOSE UP - THE CLOCK 15
The digital clock-radio changes
5:59 to 6:00. “I Got You,
Babe" starts playing.
Phil opens his eyes feeling more bereft than ever.
DEEJAY
(ánterrupting the song)
Not again.
SIDEKICK
can’t get enough of Cher.
DEEJAY
Yeah, but that's way too much of
Seany.
Phil sits up in bed as the deejays continue this new banter. He
looks around the room. Things are different, messier. Then he
gees the covers move. Wide-eyed now, he looks over and sees
Rita waking up, snuggling deep under the cover:
PRIL
(disbelieving)
It's not true, It's not. It can't
be true. Rita? Rita!
RITA
(stretching luxuriously)
Mem, “Morning.
Phil pounces on Rita, showering her with kisses.
PEIL
You're here! My god! I can't
believe you're here!
RITA
Glad to see you, too
(CONTINUED)
191
192
CONTINUED:
PHIL
No! It's happened. Don't you ger
it? It's tomorrow! Listen!
DEEJAY
still shoveling out the
highuays, but if you're walking,
Its à beautiful day.
SIDEKICK
Yeah, the snow kind of cleaned
everything up==
DEEJAY
--except your mouth.
Phil kisses the radio.
PHIL
1 love those guys.
RITA
Are you always this jolly in the
morning?
Phil runs to ©
HIS POV - THE STREET
The street is virtually empty, the tom just waking up. Kids
are throwing snowballs.
INT. PHIL'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
PRIL
No grounáhog! Rita! They're all
gone!
RITA
You must've had some dream.
Phil stops, thinks.
PEIL
Did x just dream it?
Phil opens the door and runs into the hallway wearing only
pajama bottoms.
Phil? Phil!
(CONTINUED)
193
192
CONTINUED:
PHIL
No! It's happened. Don't you ger
it? It's tomorrow! Listen!
DEEJAY
still shoveling out the
highuays, but if you're walking,
Its à beautiful day.
SIDEKICK
Yeah, the snow kind of cleaned
everything up==
DEEJAY
--except your mouth.
Phil kisses the radio.
PHIL
1 love those guys.
RITA
Are you always this jolly in the
morning?
Phil runs to ©
HIS POV - THE STREET
The street is virtually empty, the tom just waking up. Kids
are throwing snowballs.
INT. PHIL'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
PRIL
No grounáhog! Rita! They're all
gone!
RITA
You must've had some dream.
Phil stops, thinks.
PEIL
Did x just dream it?
Phil opens the door and runs into the hallway wearing only
pajama bottoms.
Phil? Phil!
(CONTINUED)
193
127-
193 — CONTINUED:
Rita sits up in bed and waits, Suddenly, from somewhere else in
the inn comes the sound of Phil at the piano expertly playing à
difficult classical piece. He stops after a few bars.
PHIL (0.C.)
yeah!!!
Phil runs back into the room.
PHIL
It really happened! You're really
here!
the pounces on Rita
You're really actually here.
RITA
Laughing)
I'm here, I'm here!
They kiss
PHIL
Let's go!
He scoops her up in his arms.
cur To:
INT. BREAKFAST ROOM - LATER 194
Phil and Rita, dressed now, enter and encounter Mrs. Lancaster.
Phil hugs her.
MRS. LANCASTER
on, ay!
PÉSÿ hello to Ri
orence! "Say hello to Rit
stayed with me last night
MRS. LANCASTER
That's all right. No extra charge.
He kisses her on the cheek and rushes out with Rita.
cor To:
193 — CONTINUED:
Rita sits up in bed and waits, Suddenly, from somewhere else in
the inn comes the sound of Phil at the piano expertly playing à
difficult classical piece. He stops after a few bars.
PHIL (0.C.)
yeah!!!
Phil runs back into the room.
PHIL
It really happened! You're really
here!
the pounces on Rita
You're really actually here.
RITA
Laughing)
I'm here, I'm here!
They kiss
PHIL
Let's go!
He scoops her up in his arms.
cur To:
INT. BREAKFAST ROOM - LATER 194
Phil and Rita, dressed now, enter and encounter Mrs. Lancaster.
Phil hugs her.
MRS. LANCASTER
on, ay!
PÉSÿ hello to Ri
orence! "Say hello to Rit
stayed with me last night
MRS. LANCASTER
That's all right. No extra charge.
He kisses her on the cheek and rushes out with Rita.
cor To:
-128-
EXT. CHERRY STREET - DAY
From the vantage point of Phil's bedroom window, we see Phil and
Rita walk off down the beautiful, snow-covered streets cf
Punxsutewney.
HE END
EXT. CHERRY STREET - DAY
From the vantage point of Phil's bedroom window, we see Phil and
Rita walk off down the beautiful, snow-covered streets cf
Punxsutewney.
HE END
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