What Women Want (2000), the Nancy Meyers-directed comedy starring Mel Gibson and Helen Hunt, is definitely a movie I remember enjoying. I only wish that I could say the same about the movie’s recent remake, What Men Want.

Starring Taraji P. Henson, Max Greenfield and Tracy Morgan, the plot of both movies is centred around an executive who wakes up at the hospital after an accident, and is suddenly able to hear the thoughts of the opposite sex. This is clearly a predicament that lends itself well to comedy. It’s just that there are very few laughs to be had in director Adam Shankman’s film.

The biggest issue with Shankman’s movie is the disappointing script. The clichéd and seemingly lazy plot choices made continuing to watch What Men Want a tedious and humourless endeavour. Furthermore, there are a number of decisions made by Henson’s character that I just didn’t buy as something she would do or allow to happen, whether drunk and upset or not.

Where acting skills are concerned, I’m quite sure that What Men Want isn’t close to the best we’ve seen from Henson. I wish very much that I could pinpoint a favourite dramatic/humorous moment. Unfortunately, all that really comes to mind as favourites are the black and white hounds-tooth jacket and the movie’s sunny location.

If you’re very curious, sure, take a chance and give Shankman’s movie a go. Otherwise, you’re probably better off watching What Women Want (2000) instead.

Happy Film Loving,

G