9 to 5: Revenge is a Dish Best Served with a Side of Dolly Parton

A Hilariously Rebellious Office Takeover

Picture this: three women, tired of their sexist boss, decide to take matters into their own hands. Sounds like a typical workplace comedy, right? Wrong! Colin Higgins's 1980 classic, 9 to 5, starring Dolly Parton, Lily Tomlin, and Jane Fonda, is a riotous blend of feminist fury and slapstick shenanigans that'll leave you giggling like a schoolgirl. Prepare for a review that's more bubbly than a freshly-opened bottle of prosecco!

Synopsis: When the Boss Becomes the Bosses'

Violet, Judy, and Doralee – three overworked and undervalued secretaries – are at their wit's end with their despicable boss, Franklin Hart Jr. (Dabney Coleman, perfectly cast as a walking, talking caricature of male entitlement). They concoct a plan to, shall we say, "re-educate" their overbearing superior. Think less "subtlety" and more "full-blown comedic chaos," punctuated by some truly memorable schemes that would make even the most seasoned pranksters blush.

A Directorial Masterclass in Mayhem

Higgins's direction is a masterclass in perfectly timed comedic beats. The film flows effortlessly from one hilarious scene to the next, expertly balancing the slapstick with the underlying message of female empowerment. The cinematography is as sharp and witty as the dialogue, capturing the claustrophobic office environment with the energy of a runaway rollercoaster. The soundtrack, featuring Dolly Parton's iconic theme song, is the auditory equivalent of a perfectly tailored power suit – stylish, confident, and undeniably catchy.

Stellar Performances That Sparkle

The trio of Parton, Tomlin, and Fonda deliver performances that are nothing short of legendary. Parton, in her film debut, shines as the sweet yet surprisingly resourceful Doralee. Tomlin's deadpan delivery is perfection, and Fonda's transformation from meek secretary to assertive mastermind is both hilarious and inspiring. The supporting cast is equally brilliant, providing a hilarious ensemble that elevates the entire production. One could argue that Dabney Coleman's performance is so good, it's almost… admirable? Almost.

Themes as Timeless as a Perfectly Pressed Blouse

Beneath the laughter and the antics, 9 to 5 tackles serious themes of workplace sexism, inequality, and the struggle for female autonomy. These messages are subtly woven into the fabric of the film, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. The film's enduring appeal lies in its ability to resonate with audiences even today, demonstrating that the fight for equality remains as relevant as ever – a truth punctuated by the fact that certain scenes still feel shockingly current.

Verdict: A Hilariously Empowering Classic

9 to 5 is a cinematic masterpiece that perfectly blends humor, heart, and a healthy dose of female empowerment. It's a reminder that sometimes, the best revenge is a well-executed office prank, meticulously planned and hilariously executed. This film remains as fresh and relevant today as it was in 1980, proving that sometimes the best way to fight sexism is with a whole lot of laughter and a dash of carefully-placed tranquilizers.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (the half star represents the time we all wish we could spend not working!)

Recommended for: Fans of classic comedies, anyone who's ever had a truly awful boss, and anyone who appreciates a good dose of empowering female camaraderie.

In conclusion, 9 to 5 is more than just a film; it's a testament to the power of female friendship, a celebration of wit and rebellion, and a timeless reminder that even in the face of adversity, a well-timed scheme and a fantastic soundtrack can conquer all. So grab your favorite office supplies (and maybe a glass of something bubbly) and prepare for a cinematic experience that will leave you feeling empowered and utterly entertained.

Note : 5/5

Publié le 15 Dec 2024