“9 to 5” (Nine to Five) – Dolly Parton, Lily Tomlin, & Jane Fonda
Truly, nothing is funny about job hunting! The only thing remotely funny about looking for a job might be viewing funny movies while you’re supposed to be viewing not-so funny job sites!
So, while I’m chasing down the perfect job, I’ll introduce you to, or remind you of, three, pretty perfect job-related movies from the 80’s.
1) The very first one that can squeeze out of my resume-soaked gray matter is the 1980 movie, 9 to 5 (Nine to Five). Any day, I would savor the opportunity to see Judy, Violet, and Doralee play hardball with their chauvinistic boss, Mr. Hart. A choice cast with Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Dolly Parton, and the man you love to hate, Dabney Coleman. Favorite line hollered by Doralee: “I’m gonna get that gun of mine, and I’m gonna change you from a rooster to a hen with one shot!”
2) Another classic movie that limps out of my networking-battered brain is Working Girl (1988). The transformation alone of Melanie’s character from big-haired, frumpy secretary to sexy, sophisticated executive is worth the watch! Add one suave investment broker (Harrison Ford), one just plain nasty boss (Sigourney Weaver), and one ingeniously-played co-worker (Joan Cusak) to make this movie a hit! Favorite lines announced by Melanie’s idea-stealing, big-talking boss: “I really don’t think that’s a variable. We’re in the same city now, I’ve indicated that I’m receptive to an offer, I’ve cleared the month of June… and I am, after all, me.“
“Working Girl” – Melanie Griffith & Harrison Ford
3) Let us not forget the 1983 comedy, Mr. Mom, with Michael Keaton, Teri Garr, and Martin Mull. Keaton plays a laid-off auto worker who must survive as a stay-at-home dad. The scenes of Keaton’s character struggling with day-to-day kiddie dilemmas are hilarious! Favorite lines spoken by Keaton as he tries to convince his boy to give up his blankie: “I understand that you little guys start out with your woobies and you think they’re great… and they are, they are terrific. But pretty soon, a woobie isn’t enough. You’re out on the street trying to score an electric blanket, or maybe a quilt. And the next thing you know, you’re strung out on bedspreads Ken. That’s serious.“
“Mr. Mom” – Michael Keaton, Frederick Koehler & Taliesin Jaffe
Well, I don’t know about you, but I feel better already just reminiscing about my favorite career comedies. Those mind-sucking job alerts can wait! I’m going to the movies!
Pastimes of Mine 