What Men Want (2019), directed by Adam Shankman, is a romantic comedy that brings a fresh and humorous twist to the age-old gender dynamics explored in the 2000 film What Women Want. This modern retelling focuses on Ali Davis, played by the talented Taraji P. Henson, a successful sports agent who struggles to get respect in a male-dominated industry. The film explores her journey when she gains the ability to hear men’s thoughts, leading to comical situations and a deeper understanding of her own personal and professional challenges.

The film kicks off with Ali Davis, a strong, ambitious woman who works hard to make a name for herself in a competitive sports agency. However, despite her qualifications and experience, she faces constant sexism and bias from her male colleagues, which limits her career advancement. When a strange encounter with a psychic (played by Erykah Badu) grants Ali the ability to hear men’s thoughts, it opens up an entirely new world of possibilities for her. She starts using this newfound power to her advantage, attempting to manipulate situations to her benefit in both her career and personal life.

As Ali begins to hear the inner thoughts of men, the film delves into the humor of gender differences. She discovers how men view women, which leads to many hilarious moments where she uses her ability to gain the upper hand in both professional settings and romantic relationships. The film provides a satirical commentary on gender stereotypes and power struggles, showing how perceptions of women in the workplace are often shaped by the male gaze and biased assumptions. However, Ali’s journey is not just about using this power for personal gain; it also prompts her to reflect on her own behavior and assumptions about men and relationships.

One of the highlights of the film is Taraji P. Henson’s performance as Ali Davis. Henson brings depth, humor, and charisma to the role, making Ali both relatable and inspiring. As she navigates her new reality of hearing men’s thoughts, Henson masterfully balances the comedic elements with moments of vulnerability. Ali’s character is not just a career-focused woman trying to break through the glass ceiling; she is also someone learning to navigate love, friendship, and her own insecurities. Henson’s portrayal of Ali adds emotional depth to the film, making it more than just a rom-com.

The supporting cast in What Men Want adds a great deal to the film’s charm. Aldis Hodge plays Will, a former basketball player and Ali’s love interest, who initially seems like the perfect romantic partner but is complicated by the pressures of Ali’s newfound abilities. Other notable performances come from Tracy Morgan, who brings his unique comedic flair, and Richard Roundtree, who plays Ali’s supportive father. The chemistry between the cast members contributes to the film’s overall warmth and humor, making it a feel-good story about personal growth, love, and understanding.

Ultimately, What Men Want is a humorous and heartwarming exploration of gender, power, and self-discovery. While the film uses the supernatural premise of hearing men’s thoughts to drive much of the comedy, it also delivers a deeper message about empathy and understanding. As Ali learns more about herself and the men around her, the film encourages viewers to question societal expectations and embrace authenticity in relationships. The film’s ending highlights that true success comes from mutual respect and understanding, rather than manipulation or using others for personal gain.

In conclusion, What Men Want is an entertaining and insightful romantic comedy that blends humor with meaningful social commentary. With a standout performance by Taraji P. Henson and a talented supporting cast, the film offers an engaging narrative about overcoming gender biases, personal growth, and the importance of genuine connections. It’s a fun, refreshing take on gender dynamics, and its light-hearted yet impactful message resonates with audiences of all backgrounds.