Despite its comedic premise and potential for satire, 'Ladies First' has been criticized for its execution, with many reviews pointing out its underlying misogyny and lack of depth. The film's role-reversal concept fails to deliver a thoughtful critique of gender dynamics, instead opting for shallow humor and clichés.
Ladies First
Where to watch: Buy
Movie · Comedy · Fantasy
Thu · 1h 34m
Director: Thea Sharrock
Starring: Sacha Baron Cohen, Rosamund Pike, Tom Davis
Overview
An arrogant but charismatic ladies' man finds his life of money, power and casual flings upended when he wakes up in a parallel world dominated by women.
Director
Thea Sharrock
Cast
Sacha Baron Cohen, Rosamund Pike, Tom Davis
Curator Review
Verdict
Despite its comedic premise and potential for satire, 'Ladies First' has been criticized for its execution, with many reviews pointing out its underlying misogyny and lack of depth. The film's role-reversal concept fails to deliver a thoughtful critique of gender dynamics, instead opting for shallow humor and clichés.
Skip if
You are looking for a nuanced exploration of gender roles.
You dislike films that rely on stereotypes for humor.
You prefer comedies with strong character development.
Overview
Ladies First attempts to flip the script on gender dynamics by placing a misogynistic man in a world ruled by women. However, it quickly becomes apparent that the film struggles to rise above its own stereotypes, offering little more than a superficial exploration of its themes. Critics have pointed out that the humor often lands flat, relying too heavily on outdated tropes rather than providing a fresh perspective on masculinity and femininity.
Worth noting
The film's failure to engage with its premise in a meaningful way leaves audiences feeling unfulfilled. Instead of crafting a narrative that thoughtfully critiques societal norms, it often resorts to cheap laughs that do not resonate. The result is a comedy that feels more like a missed opportunity than a bold statement on gender equality, leaving viewers questioning if the filmmakers truly understood the implications of their concept.
Top Letterboxd reviews
mare (1★) · 5810 likes
- still super misogynistic- why are the men feminine? they could have made masculinity the “weak” trait while femininity is seen as superior but clearly the writers can’t imagine that- is this movie feeding off misogynistic men’s fear of women in power? - 1 star for misandrist rosamund pike being hot and “childless cat man”
watchgoodmovies (1.5★) · 3485 likes
The most progressive comedy of the year!!! If the year is 1988.
maryam⸆⸉ (1★) · 2646 likes
this film has the exact political nuance of a “Girl Boss” mug bought on clearance at TJ Maxx
camryn (1★) · 1958 likes
rosamund pike’s agent needs to be jailed
stargirlchels (2.5★) · 1651 likes
so what i’m hearing is that all men should get concussions and stay that way