Some films entertain you for two hours and fade from memory. Others stay with you for decades, weaving themselves into your personal history. For me, Tootsie is firmly in the latter category—a film I can revisit endlessly and still find something new to admire.
A Comedy With a Conscience
Released in 1982 and directed by Sydney Pollack, Tootsie is often remembered for its premise: struggling actor Michael Dorsey (Dustin Hoffman) disguises himself as a woman, Dorothy Michaels, to land a role on a soap opera. But what makes it timeless isn’t just the laughs—it’s the way the humor is grounded in sharp social commentary.
The film explores gender roles, workplace dynamics, and personal integrity without ever feeling preachy. Michael’s transformation into Dorothy forces him to confront his own biases and blind spots, and in doing so, the audience is invited to do the same. It’s a rare blend of screwball comedy and genuine moral growth.
Performances That Sing (Even Without Music)
Hoffman’s performance is a masterclass in nuance—balancing the absurdity of the disguise with the emotional truth of the character. Jessica Lange’s portrayal of Julie Nichols is equally compelling, earning her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. The chemistry between the cast members feels lived-in, which makes the comedic beats land harder and the emotional moments resonate more deeply.
The Song That Stays With You: It Might Be You
No discussion of Tootsie is complete without mentioning Stephen Bishop’s It Might Be You. Written by Alan and Marilyn Bergman with music by Dave Grusin, the song plays over the film’s romantic montage sequences, underscoring Michael’s growing feelings for Julie.
The melody is tender and unhurried, and Bishop’s gentle vocal delivery captures the hesitant hope of someone realizing they might have found “the one.” Even if you’ve never seen the film, the song stands on its own as a bittersweet ballad about timing, possibility, and the quiet magic of connection. But within the context of Tootsie, it becomes something more—it’s the emotional heartbeat of the story.
When those opening notes play, you’re reminded that beneath the disguises, misunderstandings, and comedic chaos, this is a love story. Not just romantic love, but love in the broader sense: love for truth, for self-discovery, and for the people who challenge us to be better.
Why It Endures
Tootsie works because it’s more than a high-concept comedy. It’s a film about empathy—about stepping into someone else’s shoes (or heels) and seeing the world differently. It’s about the courage to change, even when it’s uncomfortable. And it’s about how love, in all its forms, can sneak up on you when you least expect it.
Every time I watch it, I’m reminded that the best stories make us laugh, make us think, and leave us humming a song long after the credits roll. For me, Tootsie does all three—and that’s why it will always be one of my favorite films of all time.
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