9 to 5 (film) be a drama, but "any way we did it, it seemed too preachy, too much of a feminist line. I'd wanted to work with Lily [Tomlin] for some time, and it suddenly occurred to [her producing partner] Bruce and me that we should make it a comedy." Patricia Resnick wrote the first draft drama, and Fonda cast herself, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton in the leads, the latter in her first film role. Then Colin Higgins came on board to direct and rewrite the script. Part of his job was to make room for all three in the script. Higgins
Theme to St. Trinian's a cameo appearance in the film as the St. Trinian's School Band, when they were photographed in school uniforms on the movie's set. It was later announced that aside from appearing in the film, the group would be recording the main theme for the soundtrack. "Theme to St. Trinian's" was later re-recorded by the Banned of St. Trinian's; this appeared on the soundtrack to "" and was also produced by Xenomania. Coincidentally, Girls Aloud member Sarah Harding had a starring role in the film. A music video for the song was released to music video stations to promote the film