Still Working 9 to 5: Review

Before I begin, this is going to be a long, drawn-out piece on still ongoing issues in today’s society and a review of Still Working 9 to 5.

In the 1980 film 9 to 5, which premiered on December 19th, three women (Lily Tomlin, Jane Fonda, Dolly Parton) find themselves fed up with their obnoxious and deceitful boss, Hart (played by Dabney Coleman). Their journey unfolds as they dare to confront the chauvinism and misogyny rampant in their workplace. While the movie is a comedic classic, its exploration of themes like sexual harassment, gender discrimination, and workplace inequality still ring true today.

Featuring a stellar cast led by Dolly Parton, Lily Tomlin, and Jane Fonda, 9 to 5 takes viewers on a hilarious ride as the trio concocts elaborate fantasies about dispatching their tyrannical boss. Eventually, they seize control of their workplace, but not before subjecting Hart to a series of comical hijinks, including holding him captive in his own home.

Despite its lighthearted tone and moments of uproarious humor, 9 to 5 shines a spotlight on the enduring challenges faced by women in the workforce. Even amidst the characters' whimsical escapades and playful antics, the film serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and dignity in the workplace.

Advancing Women's Equality in the Workplace:

In the film 9 to 5, Violet Newstead's experience of being passed over for a promotion due to her boss' sexist bias resonates with many women who continue to face similar obstacles in the workplace. Despite her competence and dedication, Violet sees a less qualified male colleague chosen over her simply because of her gender. It's a scenario that, unfortunately, still plays out in various industries today.

While Violet ultimately achieves a satisfying resolution in the film, ascending to her boss' position, the reality for many women remains far from ideal. Even in 2024, despite advancements in laws and protections aimed at ensuring gender equality, women often encounter barriers to advancement in their careers. McKinsey's recent diversity report highlights this disparity, revealing that women hold only 35% of manager-level positions, indicating a persistent underrepresentation of women in leadership roles.

Moreover, the issue of equal pay continues to plague women in the workforce. According to Forbes, women earn on average 16% less than men, translating to just 84 cents for every dollar earned by their male counterparts. This gender pay gap reflects systemic inequities that undervalue the contributions of women and perpetuate economic inequality.

Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts from both employers and policymakers to dismantle entrenched biases and create inclusive work environments where women have equal opportunities for advancement and fair compensation. Companies stand to benefit not only morally but also financially, as research indicates that diverse leadership teams contribute to better decision-making and enhanced business performance.

Closing the gender gap in leadership positions and achieving pay equity are crucial steps toward building a more equitable and prosperous society. It requires ongoing commitment to challenging ingrained norms and fostering cultures of respect, fairness, and opportunity for all individuals, regardless of gender.

Sexual harassment in the workplace:

Sexual harassment in the workplace is a pervasive issue highlighted in the film 9 to 5, where Doralee Rhodes, played by Dolly Parton, faces incessant inappropriate comments and rumors from her boss, Mr. Hart. His behavior leads to Doralee's isolation from her colleagues, illustrating the damaging impact of harassment on victims' professional and personal lives.

Doralee's assertive response, including her memorable threat involving a gun, reflects the frustration and desperation felt by many victims when confronting their harassers. Her iconic line resonates with audiences, capturing the defiance and determination to reclaim her dignity in the face of harassment.

Despite progress made since the film's release, sexual harassment remains prevalent in workplaces worldwide. While landmark decisions such as the Supreme Court's recognition of sexual harassment as sex discrimination in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the emergence of the #MeToo movement have empowered survivors to speak out, significant challenges persist. A recent Time's Up survey underscores the continued prevalence of harassment, with supervisors often identified as perpetrators, perpetuating power imbalances and fear of retaliation.

The seismic impact of the Harvey Weinstein scandal in 2017 reverberated globally, sparking a watershed moment in the fight against sexual misconduct. Investigative journalists Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey's expose in The New York Times exposed Weinstein's decades-long pattern of abuse, igniting the #MeToo movement and inspiring survivors to share their stories. This groundbreaking revelation shattered the silence surrounding sexual harassment and emboldened individuals to hold perpetrators and enablers accountable.

However, despite heightened awareness and advocacy efforts, incidents of sexual harassment persist, as evidenced by high-profile cases like the lawsuit against Activision Blizzard in 2023. The $50-million settlement agreement between the gaming giant and California's Civil Rights Department underscores the systemic nature of harassment, encompassing unequal pay, denial of promotions, and retaliation against whistleblowers.

The ongoing prevalence of sexual harassment underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms, including robust policies, training, and cultural shifts within organizations. While progress has been made, sustained efforts are essential to create safer and more equitable workplaces for all employees. The legacy of 9 to 5 serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring struggle against workplace harassment and the importance of collective action to effect meaningful change.

Still Working: 9 to 5 Documentary:

As I pressed the play button on Still Working 9 to 5, it swept me back into the captivating embrace of the '80s, a realm steeped in nostalgia for a cinematic treasure cherished by generations. Within this timeless tapestry, new perspectives bloom, infusing the familiar with a fresh vitality. With every scene, the enduring call for women's empowerment reverberates, its echoes resonating with undiminished strength across the expanse of time.

This journey isn't merely a stroll through history; it unfolds as a vibrant mosaic, seamlessly blending humor with poignant social commentary. Far from a checklist of feminist ideals, the film emerges as a testament to comedic brilliance, effortlessly melding entertainment with an unwavering commitment to championing gender equality. Paying homage to its predecessor, Still Working 9 to 5 gracefully navigates well-trodden themes through a contemporary lens, infusing the narrative with renewed energy and relevance.

In a world where progress often feels sluggish and marred by obstacles, Still Working 9 to 5 stands as a poignant reminder of its predecessor's enduring message. Despite the passage of time, the film serves as a beacon of hope—a testament to the enduring power of storytelling as a force for reflection and transformation. Amidst the somber acknowledgment of lingering barriers, the documentary offers a glimmer of optimism—a chance to celebrate the profound impact of cinema in stirring dialogue and inspiring change.

In the realm of cinematic legends, 9 to 5 stands tall as an enduring testament to comedic brilliance and social commentary. Released in 1980, this iconic film, directed by Colin Higgins and starring Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton, captured the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide with its sharp wit and poignant message. Set against the backdrop of a corporate office dominated by a chauvinistic boss, 9 to 5 follows the hilarious yet empowering journey of three women who band together to overthrow the oppressive forces of workplace sexism and inequality.

At its core, 9 to 5 is a rallying cry for gender equity in the workplace, a theme that remains as relevant today as it did over four decades ago. The film's depiction of the struggles faced by working women resonated deeply with audiences, shining a spotlight on issues such as sexual harassment, unequal pay, and limited opportunities for advancement. Through its captivating storytelling and memorable characters, 9 to 5 sparked important conversations about gender dynamics in the workplace and inspired generations of women to demand better treatment and representation.

Fast forward to the present day, and the legacy of 9 to 5 continues to thrive, as evidenced by the release of Still Working 9 to 5, a documentary that offers a fresh perspective on the making and enduring impact of the original film. Directed with passion by Camille Hardman and Gary Lane, this documentary goes beyond mere nostalgia, delving deep into the cultural significance of 9 to 5 and its lasting influence on popular culture.

Through a blend of archival footage, behind-the-scenes insights, and candid interviews with key figures, Still Working 9 to 5 paints a vivid portrait of the creative forces behind the iconic film. From Jane Fonda's unwavering commitment to social activism to Dolly Parton's iconic performance and infectious charm, the documentary celebrates the contributions of all those involved in bringing 9 to 5 to life.

But Still Working 9 to 5 is more than just a retrospective; it's a powerful testament to the ongoing struggle for gender equality in the workplace. As the documentary explores the themes and messages of its predecessor, it shines a light on the progress that has been made since the release of 9 to 5 while also acknowledging the work that still needs to be done. From the #MeToo movement to ongoing efforts to close the gender pay gap, the film highlights the continued relevance of 9 to 5 in today's society.

At its core, Still Working 9 to 5 is a celebration of resilience, empowerment, and the enduring power of storytelling. Through its engaging narrative and insightful commentary, the documentary reminds us that the fight for gender equity is far from over, but also that progress is possible when individuals come together to demand change. As we revisit the world of 9 to 5 through the lens of this documentary, we are reminded of the film's timeless message: Women are entitled to receive fair treatment, honor, and equal opportunities both within the workplace and in all aspects of life.

The enduring influence of a film from four decades ago as a protest tool underscores cinema's immense power. It amplifies voices, incites change, and underscores the ongoing imperative to strive for equality and confront prevalent issues in today's world. Our fight for progress must persist.

Grade: 5/5