---
title: "What Women Want"
year: 2000
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/what-women-want-2000"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 3981
imdb_id: "tt0207201"
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 127
community_rating: 6.5
vote_count: 4434
content_rating: "PG-13"
---

# What Women Want (2000) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/what-women-want-2000

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

What Women Want is a 2000 film centered on the life of an advertising executive named Nick Marshall. The story follows Nick, who is characterized as a cocky and chauvinistic man. His professional life takes a turn when he is passed over for a promotion at his firm. Following an unexpected accident, Nick gains the supernatural ability to hear the internal thoughts of women. He decides to utilize this newfound talent to his advantage in the workplace, specifically targeting his professional rival, Darcy. Darcy is his new boss, and the plot explores their dynamic as she appears to be infatuated with him. Throughout the film, Nick must navigate his daily interactions while coping with the constant influx of women's thoughts. The narrative focuses on how this shift in perspective impacts his career ambitions and his relationship with his new superior. The film examines the consequences of his ability as he attempts to manipulate the situation to regain his standing within the company.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A chauvinistic ad exec gains the ability to hear women's thoughts."

### Why Watch
- Mel Gibson's charismatic performance
- clever premise with comedic potential
- entertaining romantic subplot

### Caveats & Content Note
- predictable plot progression
- some dated gender dynamics
- Tone & Suitability: Suitable for general audiences, though some humor may feel dated.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: comedy, romance, fantasy, satirical, light-hearted

## Streaming Availability Matrix

| Region | Stream (Subscription) | Free / Ads | Rent / Buy |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **United States (US)** | None | Kanopy | Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube |
| **United Kingdom (GB)** | Netflix, Netflix Standard with Ads, Lionsgate+ Amazon Channels | None | Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube |
| **Canada (CA)** | None | None | Google Play Movies, CosmoGo, YouTube |
| **Australia (AU)** | Stan | None | Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube |

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Nancy Meyers
- **Networks / Studios**: Paramount Pictures, Icon Productions, Wind Dancer Films

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Mel Gibson** as *Nick Marshall*
- **Helen Hunt** as *Darcy McGuire*
- **Marisa Tomei** as *Lola*
- **Alan Alda** as *Dan Wanamaker*
- **Ashley Johnson** as *Alex Marshall*
- **Mark Feuerstein** as *Morgan Farwell*
- **Lauren Holly** as *Gigi*
- **Delta Burke** as *Eve*
- **Valerie Perrine** as *Margo*
- **Judy Greer** as *Erin*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: Is this movie based on a book?
No, it is an original screenplay.

### Q: Does he keep the power throughout the movie?
The ability plays a role in the main plot.

### Q: Is it more comedy or romance?
It blends both genres with an emphasis on comedy.

### Q: Are there any sequels or remakes?
A sequel and a gender-swapped remake exist.

### Q: Does it have a happy ending?
The film resolves with typical romantic comedy closure.

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*