The Memorable and Controversial Scene from '9 to 5'

Have you ever wondered about the scene where a group of women subject a man to a harness and hoist in order to control him? This iconic moment is from the 1980 comedy film, '9 to 5,' starring Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda, and Lily Tomlin. In this article, we will delve into the details of this controversial scene, its significance, and the impact it had on the movie and its audience.

The Plot and Background

'9 to 5' is a classic comedy that premiered in 1980, directed by James Broderick. The film tells the story of three women, Judy (played by Dolly Parton), Dinah (Jane Fonda), and Violet (Lily Tomlin), who work in an oppressive office environment. Their boss, Jerry (Dabney Coleman), is a tyrannical and sexist man who treats his employees with utter contempt. The trio decides to take matters into their own hands and do something about the unfair conditions they work under.

The Controversial Scene

The scene in question involves the women locking up Jerry and subjecting him to a leather harness. The setup involves a hoist attached to the ceiling, and whenever Jerry tries to escape or causes trouble, the women pull the wire, lifting him up. This scene, while may seem shocking by today's standards, was a bold and memorable moment in cinematic history. Apart from the harness scene, the film is full of humorous and satirical moments that highlight the ridiculous and oppressive work environment of the early 1980s.

The Impact and Relevance

The '9 to 5' scene wasn't just a simple gag for entertainment; it was a statement about workplace abuse and the need for women to take a stand. In the 1980s, such themes were not as openly discussed or portrayed in mainstream media. This film paved the way for other movies and TV shows that explored similar themes. The scene symbolizes the power of women coming together to collectively demand change and work to create a better environment for themselves and others.

The Women's Empowerment Angle

The key to the success and longevity of '9 to 5' lies in the strong portrayal of its female protagonists. The scene with the harness underscores the determination and resolve of these women. It is a clear and unambiguous statement against workplace abuse and a celebration of women's solidarity in the face of injustice. The film went beyond just being a comedy and became a cultural reference point for generations of women who connected with the message of empowerment and unity.

Today, the concept of women using unconventional and dramatic means to assert themselves in the workplace is still relevant. While the actual action in the movie may not be something that would be recommended in real life, the sentiment of standing up against injustice and demanding change is something many can identify with. The harness scene, as well as the entire film, serves as a reminder of how far we have come and how much more we need to do to create equal and fair workplaces.