The 1980 workplace comedy 9 to 5, starring the late Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda, and Lily Tomlin, is set for a special theatrical re-release next month. The restored film will screen nationwide from October 9 through October 15, offering audiences a chance to see the beloved movie on the big screen more than four decades after its debut.
Directed by Colin Higgins, the film follows three office workers who team up to take revenge on their sexist and demanding boss. It became a cultural touchstone for its comedic yet pointed take on workplace sexism, and it remains memorable for Parton's iconic title song, which topped charts and became an anthem for working women.
The re-release comes at a poignant moment, following Parton's death from cancer last month at age 80. Her passing has prompted widespread tributes, including a statement from President Biden who called her an "American original." The theatrical run is part of a broader wave of honors, from royal guards performing her hit at Buckingham Palace to ongoing recognition of her humanitarian work.
Disney, which is handling the re-release, will donate net proceeds from each U.S. ticket purchase to The Dollywood Foundation, according to Deadline. Those funds will support Parton's Imagination Library, a program that mails free books to children from birth to age five. The initiative has been a cornerstone of her philanthropy, and corporate partners have rallied around the program in recent weeks.
Parton's legacy extends far beyond music and film. She was a savvy entrepreneur, a philanthropist, and a cultural icon whose influence reached into politics and civic life. Her death has sparked a national conversation about her impact, with commentators noting her ability to bridge divides and model decency in public life.
The re-release of 9 to 5 is not just a nostalgic trip; it is a reminder of Parton's role in shaping conversations about gender equality in the workplace. The film's humor, while dated in some respects, still resonates in an era of ongoing fights for pay equity and against harassment.
For fans, the limited run is a rare opportunity to experience the film in a communal setting, complete with its restored visuals and sound. Tickets go on sale soon, and theaters across the country are expected to participate.
Parton's death has also revived interest in her many achievements, from her theme park Dollywood to her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Her namesakes range from theme parks to ancient moss, reflecting the breadth of her influence.
As the film returns to theaters, it serves as a fitting tribute to a woman whose work and generosity left an indelible mark on American culture. The proceeds from this re-release will continue that legacy, supporting literacy for a new generation.
