to 5 (1980) is an American office-revenge comedy starring Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton, with a runtime around one hour and 50 minutes. On Philo, a subscription service for live TV and on-demand shows and movies, use search and the on-demand library to see the current listing. The three leads play secretaries who band together against a bullying boss. The film mixes workplace satire, slapstick fantasy, and friendship, which gives it lasting appeal for film fans.
Table of Contents
- What is the plot?
- Who stars in 9 to 5?
- How long is it, and what is the tone?
- Why do critics and viewers remember it?
- How to check for it on Philo?
What is the plot?
Violet, Judy, and Doralee work at Consolidated Companies under vice president Franklin Hart Jr. Violet is a skilled supervisor passed over for promotion, Judy is a new hire after divorce, and Doralee is a secretary harassed by rumors spread by Hart.
After a night of venting, they act on their revenge fantasies and take control of their office. They kidnap Hart, run the department themselves, and add childcare, flextime, and fair pay. The plan works until Hart returns and forces a showdown over who will run the office.
Who stars in 9 to 5?
Jane Fonda plays Judy Bernly, the newcomer learning office work and self-reliance. Lily Tomlin plays Violet Newstead, the efficient supervisor who keeps the office running. Dolly Parton plays Doralee Rhodes, warm and firm under pressure, in her film debut.
Dabney Coleman plays Franklin Hart Jr., the sexist, hypocritical boss. Sterling Hayden, Elizabeth Wilson, and Henry Jones appear in supporting roles. Colin Higgins directed from a story developed with the lead actors.
How long is it, and what is the tone?
The film runs about 110 minutes and is rated PG. It moves at a brisk sitcom pace, with short fantasy sequences showing each woman's revenge idea.
Expect broad comedy rather than realism. The revenge scenes use poison, ropes, and safari hunts for laughs, then return to office life. Language and sexual harassment are central to the plot but handled through satire.
Why do critics and viewers remember it?
The film endures because its target is unfair office power, not one bad boss. Equal pay, promotion bias, harassment rumors, and work-life balance still read as current concerns.
That focus helps explain its long life in revivals and discussion. Parton's title song became closely linked with the movie and office culture. The characters also stand apart: Violet's competence, Judy's growth, and Doralee's refusal to accept rumors give viewers three clear entry points.
How to check for it on Philo?
Philo's movie library rotates, so treat any listing as time-sensitive. Search within the Philo app or site first, then check related details.
- Search "9 to 5" in Philo on TV, phone, or web
- Open the title page to see play, record, or on-demand options
- Save it to your library if you want recording and resume features
- If it is not listed, set a watchlist reminder and check partner channels that carry older comedies