Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

Look, Nine to Five was groundbreaking in 1980. It put workplace sexism, equal pay, and sexual harassment front and center in a mainstream comedy, and that mattered. The trio of Fonda, Tomlin, and Parton is genuinely charming, and Dolly's theme song is an absolute banger.

But here's the truth: this movie is 45 years old and it shows. The pacing is glacial by modern standards, the comedy beats land with a thud for anyone under 40, and while the themes are still relevant, the execution feels like a museum piece. The sexual harassment scenes are uncomfortable (intentionally, but still), and the kidnapping-your-boss-and-holding-him-hostage plot is... a choice.

If you're studying feminist film history or want to show your teen what workplace activism looked like in the Reagan era, sure. But if you're looking for something your family will actually enjoy watching together? There are better options that tackle similar themes without requiring you to explain what a Xerox machine is every five minutes.

The WISE score reflects reality: decent messages, historically important, but genuinely hard to sit through in 2025.

Age Fit

Best for teens 14+ who can appreciate both the historical significance and handle the mature workplace themes including harassment. Adults may enjoy it as a time capsule of 1980s feminism, but it's honestly a slog by 2025 standards.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

68

Models women supporting each other and standing up against workplace injustice, with themes of friendship and empowerment. However, the revenge-fantasy plot involves kidnapping their boss and some darker comedic elements that aren't entirely wholesome. The tone is generally upbeat despite the premise, and it promotes cooperation among the three leads.

Imaginative

62

Features creative fantasy sequences (particularly Dolly Parton's Western shootout daydream) and an inventive revenge plot. The workplace-improvement schemes show problem-solving creativity. However, it's grounded in realistic office politics rather than truly imaginative world-building. More clever than genuinely imaginative.

Safe

55

Common Sense Media rates it 13+. Contains workplace sexual harassment as a major plot point, marijuana use played for laughs, kidnapping (comedic but still), some mild violence, and adult themes around infidelity. Language includes some profanity. No graphic content but definitely not safe for younger viewers who might stumble upon it. The harassment scenes, while meant to show wrongdoing, could be uncomfortable.

Enriching

72

Strong feminist themes about workplace equality, sexual harassment, and women's empowerment that were groundbreaking in 1980 and remain relevant. Addresses real issues like unequal pay, lack of advancement opportunities, and toxic workplace culture. Sparks conversations about fairness, standing up for yourself, and systemic change. Entertaining while delivering meaningful social commentary.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Historic feminist comedy that tackled workplace sexism, equal pay, and harassment before it was mainstream conversation
Strong performances from Fonda, Tomlin, and Parton with genuine chemistry
Iconic Dolly Parton theme song that became a workplace anthem
Shows women supporting each other and fighting systemic injustice together
Sparks real conversations about workplace equality and standing up to power

⚠

What to Watch For

Sexual harassment is a major plot element—the boss is aggressively inappropriate with his secretary throughout
Kidnapping and holding someone hostage (played for laughs, but still)
Marijuana use shown comedically, some drinking, mild profanity
Pacing and humor style feel extremely 1980s—modern teens will likely find it slow and dated
Some gender stereotypes that were progressive in 1980 but feel clunky now

Conversation Starters

"Why do you think this movie was such a big deal in 1980? What's changed since then in workplaces?"
"The characters fantasize about getting revenge on their boss—what would be better ways to handle workplace problems?"
"Do you think sexual harassment and unequal pay are still problems today? What does that look like now?"
"The movie shows women supporting each other against a common problem—why is that important?"

Stills