Since the dawn of the performing arts, people in drag have been a staple of comedy and profound storytelling. Part of its history can be traced back to Shakespeare's time when women weren't permitted to perform on stage, so any female role was delegated to a man in drag. It's a perfect opportunity for mistaken-identity situations, context-driven narratives, and the exploration of perception and societal norms.
Today's movies are both classics in their own right. While one is a delightful and heartwarming comedy about the joy of fatherhood, the other is an exploration and commentary about the dangers of casual sexism. And while these themes do overlap in both films, one is more prominent than the other in their respective stories.
So, without further ado, let's look at two of the best presentations of a classic story.
Tootsie, released in 1982, follows an eager out-of-work actor living in New York named Michael Dorsey (Dustin Hoffman). Desperate for a steady acting gig, he finds the opportunity for a new supporting role in a daytime soap opera. Only one problem, the role is for a woman. So, out of pure desperation, Michael assumes the identity of his alter ego, Dorothy Michaels, a sweet, intelligent, opinionated woman with a fiery demeanor when faced with adversity. Dorothy (nicknamed Tootsie against her will by her sexist director) becomes an overnight sensation upon landing the role. She finds herself in high demand to remain a regular on the show. While Michael might have been delighted with his success, he's unsure if he can maintain the facade much longer, especially since it's given him an unexpected perspective on many things, including his relationships.
Of the many things done well in this film, especially the performances, its most significant achievement (arguably) is its commentary on casual sexism. Michael experiences firsthand how women are mistreated (both subtly and outwardly) at the workplace, and he takes it upon himself to say something about it. While not the first movie to tackle such an issue, it was one of the earliest efforts to place it front and center within the story. It's easy to overlook or even ignore a simple injustice (like treating women as if they were second-class citizens) when it's not addressed as an unacceptable action. If there's one thing Tootsie asks of its audience, it is to speak up when something is wrong and empathize more with those around you. This is a lesson that is probably more valuable today than ever before.
Mrs. Doubtfire, released in 1993, shares many similarities with Tootsie but centers around a different theme entirely.
Based on the young adult novel Alias Madame Doubtfire by British author Anne Fine, the story follows an out-of-work actor with an uncanny talent for mimicry named Daniel Hillard (Robin Williams). He is a proud father of three kids and finds himself amid an ugly divorce. Despite having weekly visitation rights (at least for the moment) he is desperate to be with his kids. So, upon discovering his ex-wife is seeking a housekeeper, Daniel decides to take on the alter ego of a highly experienced British nanny named Mrs. Doubtfire. With the help of his make-up artist brother, he acquires a life-like mask along with all the necessary elements to transform himself into a 60-year-old woman. However, like with any facade, it can only be maintained for so long.
The primary similarities to Tootsie are pretty obvious: an out-of-work actor taking on the identity of the opposite sex to achieve his goal. However, what distinguishes the film is the motivation of the protagonist. Daniel is a proud and loving father who can't bear to be away from his kids. It is a kind of character not often explored in cinema, interestingly enough, also because of unhealthy societal norms. That of men not considered to be the most caring or instinctively parental. By that same token, the film makes an effort to not portray the mother character (Sally Field) as villainous or unsympathetic. The conflict resides within Daniel, as he must learn to better balance his playful energy with his responsibilities. Another valuable life lesson that is too often forgotten.
The main attraction of this film (indubitably) is the energetic, sympathetic, and reliably comedic performance of the late Robin Williams. The story demands equal amounts of comedy and drama from the main character, and Robin hits it right out of the park. While many consider his role of The Genie from Disney's Aladdin to be one of his most remarkable (and it is up there), I find his role as Mrs. Doubtfire to be his absolute best. Because while his role as The Genie granted Robin the freedom to let loose and crank his comedic talent up to 11, his portrayal of Mrs. Doubtfire allowed him the opportunity to shine both as a comedic performer and a dramatic actor.
Sidenote: the film also makes the best use of Aerosmith's classic song, "Dude looks like a Lady," in a montage.
Both Tootsie and Mrs. Doubtfire are prime examples of their respective genre. They make us laugh, cry, and think. If you've somehow managed to miss seeing both of these beautiful classics, I highly encourage you to rectify that as soon as possible. They really don't make movies like these anymore.
Ladies & gentlemen, I am TheNorm; thank you all for reading.
"If there's love, dear, those are the ties that bond, and you'll have a family in your heart, forever."
-Mrs. Doubtfire
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