9 to 5: Sexist, Lying, Hypocritical Bigot Edition

This generally funny 1980 smash hit not only celebrated feminist rage but also made a movie star of country singer Dolly Parton, whose recording of the sprightly title tune became one of her biggest hits. What's more, 9 to 5 reestablished Jane Fonda as a comedic actress of no small ability, here playing a meek divorcee who goes to work for a fair-sized corporation and finds herself victimized—like most of the other female employees—by her obnoxious, chauvinistic boss (Dabney Coleman). Together with his secretary (Parton) and the tart-tongued office manager (Lily Tomlin), she kidnaps and imprisons the sexist pig, then proceeds to run the business more efficiently without him. Colin Higgins co-wrote and directed this zesty romp in the fashion of an old screwball comedy, eliciting a surprisingly effective performance from the pneumatic Parton, a performer capable of capturing and holding audiences without the benefit of acting lessons or years of experience (in fact, she remains the most compelling reason to watch 9 to 5). Boasting a solid transfer, DVD extras include audio commentary by producer Bruce Gilbert and costars Fonda, Tomlin, and Parton, a “Nine @ 25” retrospective featurette, deleted scenes, and a gag reel. Recommended. (E. Hulse)