This is Why Groundhog Day (1993) is a Classic Film

Beyond the Backlot is a show about iconic movies and their locations. We take you on journeys to the very places where some of your favorite movies were filmed, the stories of what happened there, and what they look like today. These are adventures you don't want to miss.

ABOUT THE EPISODE -- Groundhog Day (1993) On Location

Beyond the Backlot heads to Woodstock, Illinois (aka "Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania") for Groundhog Day (1993) filming locations! Harold Ramis. Bill Murray. And Phil the Groundhog. This existential comedy has excited the imaginations and souls of its audience for nearly three decades, and showing WHY this film is so special.

This quintessential American town that director Harold Ramis selected for Groundhog Day (1993) looks like a Hollywood studio backlot -- a gorgeous town square, cobblestone roads, local shop fronts, and an idyllic bell tower (in a opera house, no less!). Curtis and the Beyond the Backlot crew bounce around this tucked-away suburban Chicago town to spot all the movie's memorable filming locations.

And what a journey we went on! Beyond the Backlot was joined by actor Stephen Tobolowsky to discuss his iconic roll of Ned Ryerson, that pesky and hilarious insurance salesman. We also browsed the Groundhog Day film relics at the local library, caught a movie at the Harold Ramis Auditorium, and -- most importantly -- discovered the love, warmth, and hospitality of Woodstock's wonderful residents. Undoubtedly, these people and their town are synonymous with the movie, playing a huge part in what transformed the cynical Phil Connors into a selfless and empathetic character. Thanks for joining us on this adventure!

Watch out for that first step -- it's a doozy!

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Movies of the past come back to life as a crew of superfan friends go on adventures to iconic filming locations.

As kids of the 70s, 80s, and 90s, we have fond memories of watching our favorite films over and over. Thanks to theaters and VHS tapes, these movies aren't just blockbusters from the past - they're part of our childhood.

Beyond the Backlot taps into our hunger for nostalgia by visiting the current day locations of our favorite films.

Hosted by Curtis Templeton
Co-hosted by Woodstock Willie
Executive Producer - Dave Salvi
Executive Producer - Chris Sattel
Executive Producer - Curtis Templeton
Producer - Chris Sattel
Producer / Director - Dave Salvi
Director of Photography - David Tate
Director of Photography for Steven Tobolowsky Interview - Taylor Rummell
Sound - Mikey Schmit
Editor - Nancy Taylor
Special Effects - David Tate
Social Media - Brittany Sattel
Writer - Dave Salvi

Special Thanks
Woodstock Chamber of Commerce
Stephen Tobolowsky
Melissa McMahon
Rick Bellairs
Jane Howie
The Woodstock Independent
Susan Murray
Pat & Lindy

#beyondthebacklot #filmlocations #superfans

Music Courtesy of Audio Jungle
Produced by Go Go Entertainment LLC
Footage Courtesy of Columbia Pictures

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