9 to 5

9 to 5

Year: 1980

Runtime: 109 min

Language: English

Director: Colin Higgins

Comedy

Three office workers, frustrated by their sexist boss and dead-end jobs, devise a humorous scheme to get even and take charge. Their rebellious plan involves imagining ways to rid themselves of their tormentor, but the morning after brings unexpected complications when one of them fears her fantasy may have become reality. They must then deal with the consequences while working together to improve their workplace.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – 9 to 5 (1980)

Trace every key event in 9 to 5 (1980) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Judy's First Day at Consolidated Industries

Judy Bernly, freshly arrived at the workforce, begins her journey at Consolidated Industries after her husband leaves her for his secretary. She meets Violet Newstead, a long-time supervisor, who takes her under her wing to help her navigate the complexities of their workplace.

First Day Consolidated Industries
2

Encounter with Franklin Hart

Judy quickly encounters Franklin Hart, Jr., the department executive, whose arrogant demeanor and sexist behavior create tension in the office. Violet confides in Judy about her frustrations regarding the promotions she has been denied due to Hart's bias.

First Week Consolidated Industries
3

Introduction to Office Staff

Judy meets several colleagues, including Eddie, the mailroom clerk, and the alcoholic secretary Margaret Foster. She also encounters Roz Keith, Hart's executive assistant, who has a tendency to eavesdrop on private discussions, creating an atmosphere of distrust.

First Week Consolidated Industries
4

Doralee's Struggles

Doralee Rhodes, Hart's personal secretary, suffers under his inappropriate advances while trying to maintain her marriage to Dwayne, a supportive construction worker. The hostile environment fueled by Hart's lewd comments leads to office gossip and animosity, which makes Judy wary of befriending Doralee.

First Month Consolidated Industries
5

Violet Confronts Hart

Violet confronts Hart about the rampant sexism and his theft of her ideas. Hart dismisses her concerns, citing that the company favors male leadership, which angers Violet even more, especially with rumors regarding his affair with Doralee circulating.

First Month Consolidated Industries
6

Breaking Point

After Hart ferociously fires a dedicated employee, Maria, due to Roz's interference, a fed-up Doralee confronts Hart threateningly with a gun. This event catalyzes the three women to unite in their frustration against Hart's oppressive behavior.

First Month Consolidated Industries
7

A Night of Fantasizing

The trio goes to a bar to commiserate and they accidentally find a marijuana cigarette in Violet's purse. This leads them to fantasize wildly about possible revenge against Hart, imagining various absurd scenarios involving his demise.

First Month Local Bar
8

The Coffee Incident

In a comical turn of events, Violet accidentally poisons Hart's coffee, leading to a series of misunderstandings. The women scramble to cover their blunder as they mistakenly think Hart is dead, prompting a chaotic chain of events.

Next Day Consolidated Industries
9

Confined at Home

Deciding to take matters into their own hands, the women confine Hart at his home. During this time, they uncover evidence of his embezzlement, revealing the extent of his corruption within the company.

Following Day Franklin Hart's House
10

Implementing Change

With the evidence against Hart in hand, the women work to implement productive changes within the workplace such as job-sharing programs and flexible hours. These initiatives lead to overwhelming support from their coworkers.

Subsequent Weeks Consolidated Industries
11

Missy's Unexpected Arrival

Missy, Hart's oblivious wife, makes an unexpected return to the office, complicating the women's plans. As chaos erupts, the changes initiated by the women come under scrutiny, escalating the tension.

Missy's Arrival Consolidated Industries
12

Tinsworthy's Demotion of Hart

Just when Hart believes he will maintain his power, Russell Tinsworthy, the Chair of the Board, arrives and sees the positive changes the women have made. Instead of defending Hart, Tinsworthy demotes him, sending him off to work on a special project in Brazil.

Tinsworthy's Visit Consolidated Industries
13

Celebrations in the Office

With Hart's fate sealed, the office comes alive with celebrations as the employees express their gratitude for the positive changes. Roz returns to find the atmosphere different, buzzing with excitement and a newfound camaraderie.

Post-Hart's Demotion Consolidated Industries
14

New Beginnings for the Women

The three women find success in their new roles, with Violet stepping up as vice president and Doralee pursuing her dreams of being a country music star. Meanwhile, Judy finds love and decides to leave the company, marking new chapters in their lives.

After Celebrations Consolidated Industries
15

Hart's Mysterious Future

As the movie concludes, Hart's future remains shrouded in mystery as he is sent off to the Amazon. The women's fight for equality and respect in the workplace has changed their lives and the dynamics at Consolidated Industries forever.

Final Moments Brazil

Last Updated: November 03, 2024 at 11:09

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9 to 5 Summary

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9 to 5 Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in 9 to 5

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Characters, Settings & Themes in 9 to 5

More About 9 to 5

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