What Women Want 2000

The journey of Nicholas Marshall, a charming advertising executive from Chicago, is significantly influenced by his mother’s daring past as a Las Vegas showgirl. Surrounded by an array of stunning women who spoiled him, along with formidable casino figures who acted as role models, Nick has cultivated a bold, often chauvinistic demeanor. He effortlessly markets products to men while charming women. His inflated sense of masculinity leads him to anticipate a promotion at Sloane Curtis advertising firm. However, he is taken aback when his manager, Dan Wanamaker, reveals that the competitive and sharp-witted Darcy Maguire will be joining the team, shifting their focus towards appealing to female consumers.

At the same time, Nick’s strained relationship with his 15-year-old daughter, Alex, grows more complex as she stays with him. Nick’s protective nature comes to the forefront when he meets her older boyfriend, Cameron, creating an undercurrent of tension in their interactions.

In an unexpected turn of events during a staff meeting, Darcy assigns the team, including Nick, to brainstorm innovative ideas for women’s products. Lost in thought, Nick experiences an accident involving an electric hairdryer in the bathtub, which leaves him unconscious. Upon regaining consciousness, he realizes he has gained the ability to hear women’s thoughts. Initially horrified by this new power—especially when he discovers that many women perceive him as sleazy—Nick seeks guidance from his former therapist, Dr. Perkins, who encourages him to use this ability to understand what women genuinely want.

As Nick begins to ‘listen in’ on Darcy’s thoughts, he initially exploits her ideas for his gain. Yet, as he uncovers more about her inner workings, he becomes captivated by her creative flair and spirit. This connection helps mend his relationship with Alex, who starts to come around as they bond over shopping for a prom dress.

However, as Nick becomes aware of Alex’s plans to lose her virginity to Cameron at prom, he tries to steer her away from what he sees as a shallow relationship. Unfortunately, Alex reads his concern as controlling behavior, further straining their relationship.

Nick’s telepathic skills continue to develop, enhancing his connection with Darcy. Their chemistry blooms into romance. However, Nick succumbs to his old habits by appropriating one of Darcy’s advertising concepts for a major Nike campaign geared towards women, which later lands him in hot water when he realizes that Darcy ends up facing the consequences of his actions, including losing her job.

In an act of redemption, Nick intervenes to have Darcy reinstated, recognizing her role in creating the successful ad campaign. This experience prompts Nick to reflect on his past behaviors, as he gradually sheds the layers of his chauvinism in favor of a more compassionate and understanding self.

As his life begins to realign, he redeems relationships with women in his professional arena, particularly with Erin, the company secretary. A tumultuous storm mirrors Nick’s own transformation when he loses his telepathic abilities on his way to check on Erin, who is wrestling with her own demons. Offering her an opportunity she had declined before, he ignites a budding romance between them.

Simultaneously, after Cameron unexpectedly abandons Alex at the prom when she refuses to yield to his desires, Nick steps in to offer her comfort and support, reinforcing their father-daughter bond. This heartfelt interaction paves the way for a visit to Darcy, where Nick opens up about his recent experiences, leading to a moving conversation that brings her forgiveness. Their emotional connection is sealed with a kiss, signaling a promising new beginning for both as they embrace the complexities of their newfound relationships.