Foil

Character Role Analysis

Rita/Phil

Yup, Rita is also the foil of this movie in addition to being its guide. That's because she's the exact opposite of Phil. Yes, Phil would come across as a jerk no matter what; but he seems especially jerky when you put him beside a truly kind and sincere person like Rita.

Phil is sarcastic while Rita is genuine. Phil is selfish while Rita is selfless. Phil thinks that people are dumb while Rita respects them as human beings with feelings. And in the end, it's Phil who finally realizes that he should learn to be more like Rita. That's what also makes her his mentor.