Gen Z vs. Boomers: Diablo Cody's '9 to 5' Remake Takes Aim at Workplace Conflict
Diablo Cody, the screenwriter behind hits like *Juno
and *Jennifer's Body*, has completed the script for her upcoming *9 to 5* remake. While speaking at Comic-Con 2024, Cody revealed that her take on the 1980 classic will focus on a different kind of workplace battle â the generational clash between Gen Z and baby boomers.
"The original movie focused on the battle of the sexes and the corporate world," Cody explained. "But to me, I see most of the conflict taking place generationally, like Gen Z versus boomers in the workplace." She elaborated on how the changing workplace dynamics, with Gen Z's emphasis on setting boundaries, create a distinct contrast to older generations' expectations. "You have other generations out there in the corporate world who we're told just to kind of suck it up," Cody said. "So there's definitely a cultural clash there, and I thought, 'Oh, this seems like it's so ripe for comedic treatment.'"
The remake, set to be produced by Jennifer Aniston, is still in the early stages of development. "It hasn't been cast or anything like that, but I feel like we're moving forward with it," Cody shared. While she remained tight-lipped about specific details, Cody teased, "I would tell you everything, but I donât want to get in trouble."
Beyond the *9 to 5
remake, Cody also discussed her upcoming project, *Death of a Pop Star*, a darkly comedic thriller based on a popular Webtoon comic. The film explores the darker side of pop fandom, where intense devotion can morph into something "cult-like and scary," Cody explained, drawing a comparison to *Final Destination*.
Cody shared that the film will delve into the unprecedented power fans hold in the digital age, their ability to influence everything from charts to public image. "To make a movie where the biggest fan is this sinister force, the literal devil, just felt timely to me," Cody said.
While it's still early days, Cody expressed her desire to cast a real pop star in the lead role, highlighting her fondness for contemporary artists like Charli XCX, Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, and Beyoncé.
With a focus on workplace dynamics and the ever-evolving landscape of pop fandom, Diablo Cody's upcoming projects promise a fresh, comedic perspective on current social trends. As the projects progress, fans eagerly await further details and casting announcements.
