STILL WORKING 9 TO 5: Still Serving A Warm Cup Of Ambition
Kristy Strouse is the Owner/Editor in Chief of Film Inquiry,…
As it opens, Still Working 9 to 5 feels like a callback, revealing previously unknown details about one of the surprise comic hits of the 80s. Upon reentering this world, it becomes clear that its women’s empowerment theme is as important today as it was 44 years ago. Except then, moviegoers, men and women alike, walked out of the theatre entertained.
While an important movie, it never forgets to make people laugh, and doesn’t feel as if it’s checking boxes. It has sealed its place in comedy movie history while highlighting the feminist movement. While we learn and reengage, the film exudes a delightful energy that echoes the original movie, exploring similar themes, under a new lens.
Still Working 9 to 5 remains as relevant as ever, showcasing the cohesive elements that brought the iconic film to life while preserving its timeless message. Despite the time difference, it’s unfortunate that some things still haven’t changed. As a snapshot, this documentary provides a great avenue to celebrate film and continue the conversation.
Still Working
9 to 5′s terrific casting and chemistry brought the sharp comedic writing to life. The movie, centered around three mistreated female office workers who fantasized about murdering their boss, resonated deeply, was riveting, and was rooted in a truth that many face every day: we need more gender equity at work.
With fresh perspectives from interviews with key figures, the documentary offers valuable insights into the making of the film. It seamlessly extends the spirit of the original: humorous, heartfelt, and socially relevant. The activism that fueled the film’s creation remains palpable, making this a culturally impactful exploration that exceeds expectations.
It takes us back to Jane Fonda and her producing partner Bruce Gilbert, their direction of issue-driven storytelling, to the fruition of 9 to 5. We are given the original idea to its eventual creation, and interesting stories along the way. 9 to 5, named after a group of women fighting for workplace equality and fair pay, also talks about the statistics of women and what they made in earnings, showing the depth and importance of this pivotal film.
Directed by Camille Hardman and Gary Lane, Still Working 9 to 5 is directed with care, as a terrific homage to the beloved film. Through a skillful blend of archival footage and insightful interviews, the documentary boldly proclaims, “We’re still here.” By delving into the origins of the production and its enduring legacy, the film makes the behind-the-scenes look compelling.
9 to 5
This documentary also provides a fantastic opportunity to relive the achievement of the film through carefully selected clips. While the compilation may feel scattered at times and could benefit from a different assembly, the director’s vision is inherently clear, and the interviews, especially those with the original trio of Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton, are wonderful. With ample extras and behind-the-scenes details, this documentary offers a funny and riveting way to spend 96 minutes.
Featuring appearances by Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Dolly Parton, Rita Moreno, Allison Janney, and Dabney Coleman, the documentary also introduces a new rendition of the classic song performed by Dolly Parton and now by Kelly Clarkson, adding another layer of entertainment.
It’s a fairly straightforward documentary that has spunk, intelligence, and spirit.
Conclusion: Still Working 9 to 5
This captivating documentary not only entertains but also invites both new and seasoned fans to rediscover the film that started it all. Crafted with love and appreciation, it provides a rich experience in itself. We’re still here for 9 to 5.
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Kristy Strouse is the Owner/Editor in Chief of Film Inquiry, writer, podcaster, and all around film and TV fanatic. She's also VP of Genomic Operations at Katch Data and is a member of The Online Association of Female Film Critics and The Hollywood Creative Alliance. She also has a horror website: Wonderfully Weird & Horrifying.