Transvestite Comedy (Press, 21 March 1983)

“Tootsie,” directed by Sydney Pollack and featuring a screenplay by Larry Gelbart and Murray Schisgal, has been received positively by audiences, particularly women, who seem to connect deeply with the film. The story revolves around Dustin Hoffman, who plays a desperate young actor named Michael Dorsey. In a bid to secure a job, he adopts the persona of a woman named Dorothy Michaels to land a role in a TV hospital soap opera after his girlfriend, played by Teri Garr, feels too insecure to take on the part herself. The film’s premise generates a wealth of comic scenarios, which Hoffman and Pollack exploit to great effect, suggesting themes exploring gender roles and identity. This exploration aligns with Hoffman’s search for scripts that delve into what it means to be a man or a woman, similar to his previous work in “Kramer vs Kramer.” Through the character of Dorothy, Hoffman not only takes on a female role but also experiences a personal evolution, which could be likened to Carl Jung’s theories of anima and animus. While some may find parallels with Al Pacino's character in “Cruising,” where a man explores a different sexuality, it is important to note that “Tootsie” is ultimately a farcical comedy, reminiscent of classics such as “Some Like It Hot.” Despite its implausible plot, which hinges on the absurdity of a man successfully portraying a woman, Hoffman’s performance ensures that it remains engaging for viewers. The film garnered an enthusiastic response from audiences at two screenings shortly before its public release, highlighting its appeal. The supporting cast strengthens the film, particularly Jessica Lange, who plays an actress in the soap opera and develops a close friendship with Hoffman’s character. Lange, known for serious roles in films like “The Postman Always Rings Twice” and “Frances,” successfully embraces the comedic elements of her character, enhancing the film’s narrative. Her character is portrayed as a talented actress grappling with personal challenges, such as being a single mother and dealing with a male-chauvinist director who is also her lover. Teri Garr delivers a charming performance as Hoffman's other girlfriend, adding to the film's comedic elements, while Bill Murray plays his flatmate, though his character isn’t as fully developed, reflecting potential weaknesses in the script. The film reportedly underwent several creative changes during production, with eight writers and multiple directors contributing to its final form, which may explain any inconsistencies in character development. Overall, “Tootsie” stands out as a noteworthy comedic film, combining strong performances with a humorous exploration of gender and identity, while also enjoying broad audience appeal, particularly among women. It has the potential to resonate with a wide demographic, including older viewers, while providing a light-hearted take on serious topics surrounding gender roles in society.

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