Dec. 17, 1982|USA|116 Min.|PG
Genre: Comedy;Romance
Description: Michael Dorsey is a talented yet perfectionist actor struggling to find work in New York City due to his difficult reputation. To make ends meet, he works as a restaurant server and teaches acting classes. After months of unemployment, he learns about an opening on the popular daytime soap opera *Southwest General* from his friend and student, Sandy Lester, who fails to secure the role of hospital administrator Emily Kimberly.
Desperate for work, Michael disguises himself as a woman, auditions as “Dorothy Michaels,” and lands the part. He takes the job to earn $8,000 to fund a play written by his roommate, Jeff Slater, which will star both him and Sandy. As Dorothy, Michael portrays Emily as a bold feminist, surprising the cast and crew who expected a traditional, submissive character. His portrayal turns the character into a national sensation.
Complications arise when Sandy catches Michael trying on her clothes for Dorothy’s wardrobe. To cover up, he claims he wants to sleep with her, leading to a romantic encounter. Further complicating matters, Michael becomes attracted to his co-star, Julie Nichols, a single mother in a toxic relationship with the show’s director, Ron Carlisle.
At a party, Michael (as himself) tries to connect with Julie using a line she had previously told Dorothy she would appreciate. However, Julie throws a drink in his face. Later, as Dorothy, Michael makes subtle advances, but Julie, who has just ended her relationship with Ron on Dorothy’s advice, clarifies she is not interested in women.
Meanwhile, Dorothy garners attention from other admirers, including older cast member John Van Horn and Julie’s widowed father, Les, who proposes marriage. Les urges Dorothy to consider his proposal before responding.
Cast director: Sydney Pollack
Cast actor: Dustin Hoffman, Jessica Lange, Teri Garr, Dabney Coleman, Charles Durning, Bill Murray, Sydney Pollack, George Gaynes, Geena Davis, Doris Belack
Original name: Tootsie