Ladies First Review: Sacha Baron Cohen and Rosamund Pike Star in a Predictable Netflix Comedy with a High-Concept Twist
The new Netflix comedy Ladies First, directed by Thea Sharrock, features Sacha Baron Cohen and Rosamund Pike in a narrative that explores gender dynamics through a satirical lens. The film, which premiered on May 22, 2026, is based on a 2018 French film and follows the story of Damien, an arrogant advertising executive whose misogynistic attitudes lead to unexpected consequences.
Plot Overview
In Ladies First, Cohen portrays Damien, a male executive who embodies a playboy lifestyle and revels in his sexist behavior. His character is set to receive a promotion from his boss, played by Charles Dance. As he navigates the office, the soundtrack features the song “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?”—a choice that underscores the film’s thematic elements.
Damien’s condescending treatment of his colleague Alex, played by Rosamund Pike, culminates in her resignation during a heated meeting about an advertising campaign for Guinness. Following a confrontation, Damien suffers an accident that alters his reality, leading him to wake up in a world where women dominate the corporate landscape.
Gender Reversal and Satire
The film explores a topsy-turvy environment where the receptionist, portrayed by Fiona Shaw, has become the CEO, and the cleaning staff, including Kathryn Hunter, hold executive positions. In this new reality, Damien and his former boss are subjected to ridicule, highlighting a reversal of traditional gender roles.
At home, the dynamics shift as well. Damien’s mother lounges on the couch while his father takes on domestic duties, and his sister, played by Emily Mortimer, finds humor in crude jokes. This inversion of societal norms serves as a vehicle for the film’s commentary on sexism.
Attempts at Normalcy
In his quest to restore the status quo, Damien tries to regain his former position by seeking advice from a quirky street character, played by Richard E. Grant. However, his efforts are met with resistance, as he faces comments like “You need to relax” during corporate meetings. The film’s writers, Natalie Krinsky, Cinco Paul, and Katie Silberman, employ various comedic scenarios to challenge and reverse sexist stereotypes, including humorous situations involving female construction workers and absurd attempts by Damien to enhance his appeal for career advancement.
Humor and Execution
The humor in Ladies First is characterized by its predictability, with gags that include playful references to popular culture, such as parodies of well-known titles and brands. The film maintains a brisk pace, ensuring that some jokes resonate with the audience. Cohen’s performance leans into his character’s humiliations, while Pike embraces her role with confidence, supported by a talented ensemble cast.
Despite the film’s comedic elements, it ultimately reveals a conventional approach to its satirical premise. The dynamic between Damien and Alex culminates in a one-night stand that challenges traditional roles, yet the film’s conclusion reinforces a familiar narrative arc.
As reported by www.hollywoodreporter.com, Ladies First presents a high-concept idea that, while engaging, falls into predictable patterns, leaving viewers with a sense of familiarity rather than innovation.
Conclusion
Ladies First serves as a comedic exploration of gender roles, with performances that elevate the material despite its shortcomings. The film’s reliance on established tropes may limit its impact, but it offers a light-hearted take on serious themes, making it a noteworthy addition to Netflix’s lineup.
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Published on 2026-05-22 10:59:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk