5 More Wholly Inappropriate '80s Movies That Taught Me All My Life Values
3. Nine to Five (1980)
The seminal 80's female empowering classic stars Lily Tomlin, Jane Fonda and Dolly Parton as three female employees of Consolidated Industries who team up to turn the tables on their "sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot" of a boss, played to absolute perfection by Dabney Coleman. It not only went on to critical acclaim and spawned a television series but Dolly Parton herself wrote the theme song which went on to become one of her biggest ever hits, eventually going on to win both a Grammy and an Academy award for "best song".
And just like the Toy, the debate on if this is a "child friendly" film could be tossed around the ol' water cooler. But it does have significant adult overtones (not to mention drug references) that nowadays may have had the censors reconsider its family fun values. There has even been talk of a sequel as late as 2010, but considering the actors age I can't see this from happening.
Lesson learnt: Gender Equality
Nine to Five has become renowned for highlighting female inequality in the workplace at the time and how it helped usher in a new era of female empowerment that has yet to be rivaled to this day. Women everywhere used not only the movie but Dolly Parton's iconic hit song as a wake up call and a theme to the plight of women everywhere. Dare I say that this film may have indirectly caused massive workplace reform that is still being felt to this day.
I love this film, as do most people. There is simply no way you can't smile at it. And my attitudes on women were formed at a very young age thanks to this movie. I was taught to respect and admire women, something which my own bloodline couldn't even fathom, let alone teach me. And I personally think that this film should be shown to a lot of young women today to teach them that you don't have to pose nude or film a sex tape to make waves in the world. All you need is some self respect and the will to better your situation.
Alternate Lesson: Steer Clear of Angry Women
I don't think I need to elaborate, am I right men?