Tootsie

Tootsie The 1980’s were a time of change for various groups protesting their treatment and attempting to gain more rights and respect in the United States, women being one of the most prominent groups as they were heavily objectified and restrained during this period. The 1982 film “Tootsie” was most notorious for the portrayal of women as defenseless and weak while implementing a male dominated script and thus affirmed the traditional middle class views of gender roles in the 1980’s. While the producers may have tried to incorporate female empowerment as the theme in the film, it backfired on them. Dorothy is supposed to be an icon of female power that should be respected and imitated; however her “mannish” quirks defeat any positive influence. For example, Sandy, Michael’s “girlfriend” is not given the part of Emily because she is a woman in power and power, according to Ron the director of the soap opera, makes women ugly. Seeing as how Dorothy is really a man and not exactly attractive “she” fits the part. This also implies that she is only able to advocate for women’s rights and garner respect because she is a man. It also shows the glass ceiling idea present throughout this time because women were able to legally apply for jobs, but there was still discrimination for males. Even in the beginning stages of “Dorothy” her mannish qualities allow her to accomplish her goals. For example, when “she” is leaving her apartment and trying to get a cab she screams “taxi” in her southern timid voice; however after being fed up and yelling “taxi” in his regular voice the taxi stops. Similar situations arise where “Dorothy” is shown beating a man who tried to steal her cab with her shopping bags. While Michael does not change his mannerisms to a more “feminine approach” to play this strong willed character, it implies that even women cannot fight for themselves and a man has to take charge. Dorothy Michaels being a man cannot shoulder all the blame for the lack of