Tootsie

Back to Some Like it Hot

"Tootsie" is a 1982 American comedy film directed by Sydney Pollack and starring Dustin Hoffman, Jessica Lange, Teri Garr, Dabney Coleman, Charles Durning, and Bill Murray. The film is praised for its sharp humor, strong performances, and insightful commentary on gender roles and the entertainment industry.

Plot Summary

Michael Dorsey (Dustin Hoffman) is a talented but difficult actor in New York City, known for his perfectionism and temperamental nature. His reputation makes it hard for him to find work, and he struggles to make ends meet while helping his roommate Jeff (Bill Murray) with rent and supporting his friend Sandy Lester (Teri Garr), an actress who is also struggling to land roles.

Desperate for a job and frustrated by the industry's gender biases, Michael adopts a bold strategy: he transforms himself into "Dorothy Michaels," a strong-willed and charming middle-aged woman, and auditions for a role on a popular daytime soap opera. To his surprise, he lands the part and quickly becomes a television sensation, admired for "Dorothy's" assertiveness and no-nonsense attitude.

As Dorothy, Michael begins to see the world from a different perspective. He experiences firsthand the challenges and discrimination women face in the workplace. His alter ego's success empowers him but also complicates his life. He forms a close friendship with his co-star, Julie Nichols (Jessica Lange), and falls in love with her. However, Julie believes Dorothy is just a friend, while Michael's dual identity creates tension with Sandy, who is unaware of his deception.

The situation becomes even more tangled when Julie's father, Les (Charles Durning), develops romantic feelings for Dorothy, and the show's lecherous director, Ron Carlisle (Dabney Coleman), tries to seduce her. Michael finds it increasingly difficult to maintain his disguise and his personal relationships.

The film reaches a climax when Michael, overwhelmed by the lies and complications, decides to reveal the truth live on air during a taping of the soap opera. He removes his wig and makeup, confessing to the stunned cast and audience that he is, in fact, a man. The revelation shocks everyone but ultimately leads to growth and understanding among the characters. Julie is initially angry but eventually forgives Michael, acknowledging the genuine friendship and connection they shared.

Where to Watch

Streaming information by
JustWatch.com logo

Soundtrack

The soundtrack of "Tootsie" was composed by Dave Grusin, known for his work in film and jazz music. The score blends lively jazz pieces with softer, more emotional tracks that enhance the film's comedic and dramatic moments.

Key Tracks

  1. "It Might Be You" - This song, performed by Stephen Bishop, serves as the film's love theme. It is a tender and melodic ballad that reflects Michael's growing feelings for Julie and the romantic undercurrents of the story.
  2. "Tootsie" - The main theme is an upbeat and jazzy piece that captures the film's playful and humorous tone, emphasizing the chaotic and entertaining aspects of Michael's double life.
  3. "Working Girl March" - A lively and energetic track that underscores the montage scenes of Michael as Dorothy, highlighting the hustle and bustle of the soap opera set and the comedic elements of his transformation.
  4. "Sandy's Song" - A softer, more introspective piece that reflects the character of Sandy and her struggles in the acting world, adding depth to her emotional journey.
  5. "Hospital Happiness" - This track accompanies some of the film's lighter and more whimsical moments, particularly the comedic scenes on the soap opera set where Dorothy becomes an unlikely heroine.
  6. "Out of the Rain" - A gentle, reflective piece that underscores the more poignant and contemplative moments in the film, particularly those involving Michael's internal conflict and realizations.

The soundtrack of "Tootsie" plays a crucial role in conveying the film's emotional range and enhancing its narrative. Dave Grusin's compositions, combined with the memorable songs, create an engaging and dynamic musical backdrop that supports the film's themes of identity, love, and personal growth.

Where to Listen

Where to Buy

Movie Connections

  1. Romantic Comedy: "Some Like It Hot" (1959) This film, like "Tootsie," involves characters cross-dressing to achieve their goals and features a blend of comedy and romance.

  2. Comedy: "Mrs. Doubtfire" (1993) Shares the theme of a male character disguising himself as a woman to overcome personal and professional challenges.

  3. Romantic Comedy: "Victor/Victoria" (1982) Involves a woman cross-dressing as a man who performs as a female impersonator, exploring themes of gender and identity similar to "Tootsie."

  4. Drama/Comedy: "Birdcage" (1996) Features themes of gender disguise and deception, with comedic elements that echo the humor in "Tootsie."

  5. Musical: "La Cage aux Folles" (1978) This French-Italian film revolves around a drag nightclub and includes elements of gender disguise, much like "Tootsie."

  6. Romantic Comedy: "Tootsie" (1982) This Indian remake of the original film, starring Kamal Haasan, follows a similar plot with cultural variations, retaining the essence of cross-dressing and comedic misunderstandings.

  7. Drama/Comedy: "The Nutty Professor" (1996) While focusing on a different type of transformation, it shares the comedic exploration of identity and self-discovery.

  8. Romantic Comedy: "She's the Man" (2006) Features a female character disguising herself as a male to prove her abilities in a male-dominated environment, reflecting the gender disguise theme of "Tootsie."

  9. Romantic Comedy: "Nina’s Heavenly Delights" (2006) Involves a character navigating personal and professional challenges with elements of gender and cultural identity, akin to the journey in "Tootsie."

  10. Drama/Comedy: "Big Momma's House" (2000) Centers on a male character disguising himself as an elderly woman for a mission, blending comedy and disguise in a manner reminiscent of "Tootsie."