Coming soon: Dolly Parton in ‘Still Working 9 to 5’
Dolly Parton released her classic song “9 to 5” over forty years ago in 1980. That same year Parton starred with Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin in the Colin Higgins directed film 9 to 5. The film and the song opened up discussion about sexism in the workplace and introduced feminist discussions into popular culture at a time when they weren’t all that popular.
A lot has changed since 1980, but sadly much is still the same. A new documentary reunites the stars of the film, examines the legacy of their works, and explores what still needs to be done for women in the workplace. Still Working 9 to 5 acknowledges that the themes in the film and Parton’s song are still very much relevant in today’s world while celebrating the impact 9 to 5 on the women’s movement and the world.
Still Working 9 to 5 will play at South by Southwest on Sunday, March 13. Tickets are currently available, and trust us, this is not a film you want to miss. Whether you’re a fan of Dolly Parton, or just wanting to take a trip through the history of social change, we’ve got some exciting details about the documentary ready for you right here.
Ah the 80s
The 80s were a different time, when hair was as big as shoulder pads were long, and when women had only legally been allowed to own their own credit cards in the US for six years. Seriously. When 9 to 5 first debuted, it was opening in a world that wasn’t at all friendly toward the women’s movement or feminism. The film broke new ground and opened discussions that desperately needed to happen.
Still Working 9 to 5 brings back all the main cast members of the classic film to discuss how they felt at the time and the effects they saw the film having on the world once it was released. The documentary examines how the comedic tone of the film helped ease those discussions. It also looks at the vibrant history of 9 to 5 spin offs that made their way into all forms of media.
Ah the 20s
How much as really changed since 1980? Still Working 9 to 5 also includes interviews with feminists and activists who are in some ways fighting the same battle today that 9 to 5 was forty years ago. There’s no denying that progress has been made for women, specifically in the workplace, but recent years have shown us that there is still a long way to go for equity & equality.
Still Working 9 t0 5 is reverential, celebratory, and critical all at the same time. It is a stunning example of how to honor the past while also learning from its shortcomings. If you manage to catch the film, you might also get a musical surprise, but we really can’t say anything more. Get your ticket to the film’s debut at South by Southwest today, and keep up with the film’s boom reception at its website.
