Bill Murray Movie Of The Week: Scrooged

OK, it was on AMC last night and I DVR'd it and just watched it. Bill Murray is Bill Murray in this movie, just like the rest of his movies from this time. If you don't like that, you won't like his movies... just the way it is. I watched this movie in the past, but I was much younger and it had no impact on me. Things like this make a much bigger mark when you can relate to them. Unlike most "Scrooge" movies, this one seems to be more about business and desire for improvement over pure greed. Frank was of course motivated by money as anybody else would be, but he really wanted to be a big shot. He wanted to be the alpha and omega, the man who runs the show, the decision maker; he wanted to call the shots in whatever way felt right to him. This approach makes a lot more sense in a modern world, people are forever trying to control their future and make sure it fits within their expectations. Problem is, that lust will take over your life at the expense of everything, and everyone, else. Frank's goals simply weren't compatible with companionship, which is why Claire disappeared from his life. As far as he knew, he was fine with that. It wasn't until the ghost of Christmas past showed him that he realized she was missing from his life. Then it wasn't until he saw the current day effects of his actions that he realized relationships were important (his secretary's family situation, the homeless man that froze), via the ghost of Christmas pressent. Then finally the ghost of Christmas future that showed the ruin he left in his wake. The message of the movie, to me, is to treat the people in your life well. Make time for them, be aware of their needs, and give what you can. You're important whether you realize it or not and the decisions you make affect everyone around you.