December 15, 2000, marked the highly anticipated North American theatrical release of 'What Women Want,' a romantic comedy that quickly captivated audiences and became a significant box office success during the competitive holiday season. This date ushered in a film that brilliantly blended fantasy with the timeless battle of the sexes, starring Hollywood heavyweights Mel Gibson and Helen Hunt. Its unique premise, coupled with its heartfelt comedic elements, allowed it to resonate deeply with a broad demographic, solidifying its place as a memorable entry in early 2000s cinema. The film's commercial triumph underscored its instant appeal and the effective storytelling by director Nancy Meyers.
What it is
'What Women Want' is a fantastical romantic comedy centered on Nick Marshall (Mel Gibson), a chauvinistic Chicago advertising executive who believes he's God's gift to women. After a freak accident involving a hairdryer and a bathtub, he gains the extraordinary ability to hear every thought women have. Initially, Nick exploits this newfound power to his professional advantage, particularly against his new boss, Darcy McGuire (Helen Hunt), and in his personal life. However, as he navigates the complex inner worlds of women, he begins to develop empathy, introspection, and ultimately, a genuine understanding and respect for the opposite sex, leading to both hilarious and poignant self-discovery. The film also features Marisa Tomei as his love interest, and Alan Alda as his boss.
How it came to be
The concept for 'What Women Want' originated with executive producer Mark Gordon, who brought it to director Nancy Meyers. Meyers, known for her sharp wit and insightful romantic comedies, along with her then-writing partner Josh Goldsmith, developed the screenplay. The casting of Mel Gibson was a pivotal and somewhat unexpected choice, as he was primarily known for action films at the time. However, Meyers saw his comedic potential and charm, which proved instrumental in making Nick Marshall a likable, despite his flaws, character. The production aimed for a polished, sophisticated aesthetic typical of Meyers' films, blending a high-concept fantasy element with relatable human relationships, all under the banner of Paramount Pictures.
How many it sold
Upon its release on December 15, 2000, 'What Women Want' quickly proved to be a massive commercial success, far exceeding its $65 million budget. It debuted strongly, eventually accumulating an impressive worldwide box office gross of $374,111,707. Domestically, it earned over $182 million, making it a holiday season powerhouse. The film's exceptional performance demonstrated its widespread appeal across various demographics, showcasing that audiences were eager for a sophisticated romantic comedy with a unique twist. Its profitability was immense, establishing it as one of the highest-grossing romantic comedies of its era and a significant win for Paramount Pictures.
Why it resonated
The film resonated deeply with audiences for several reasons, primarily its ingenious premise that allowed for both broad comedy and genuine emotional depth. The universal theme of understanding the opposite sex, combined with Nick's journey from a self-absorbed lothario to an empathetic individual, struck a chord. Mel Gibson's charismatic performance, expertly balancing arrogance with vulnerability, and Helen Hunt's strong, intelligent portrayal of Darcy, created compelling on-screen chemistry. Critics generally praised its clever script and performances, highlighting its ability to tackle gender dynamics in an entertaining and thought-provoking way, making it more than just a superficial romantic comedy. Its marketing emphasized the humorous premise and the star power of its leads.
Impact today
'What Women Want' holds a lasting legacy as a beloved romantic comedy from the early 2000s, influencing subsequent films that explore themes of empathy and gender role reversal. It cemented Nancy Meyers' reputation as a master of the genre, known for stylish, intelligent, and emotionally resonant rom-coms. The film's unique high-concept premise has been revisited in various forms, most notably with the 2019 gender-flipped remake, 'What Men Want,' starring Taraji P. Henson. It continues to be a popular choice on streaming platforms, appreciated for its clever humor, memorable performances, and underlying message about the importance of listening and understanding in relationships. Its iconic scenes and dialogue are still referenced in pop culture.
Historical content researched and generated by Gemini 2.5 Pro.