What Men Want (2019) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The movie is set in Atlanta, Georgia. Atlanta serves as a vibrant backdrop for the story, known for its major sports culture and business centers. The city hosts NBA games, which play a significant role in the plot as Ali navigates her career in sports management.

• atlanta setting location sports city georgia

The movie takes place in modern times, reflecting contemporary issues in the workplace and personal relationships. It addresses current challenges faced by women in male-dominated industries like sports management, set against today's professional landscape.

• modern times contemporary present day era

The film emphasizes self-advocacy and resilience as Ali fights to succeed in a male-dominated sports agency. Her journey highlights the importance of standing up for oneself professionally and the power of sisterhood in achieving ambitions. The story shows that true empowerment comes from inner strength rather than using advantages over others.

• empowerment feminism women success career gender discrimination

The movie delves into the complexities of romantic relationships as Ali balances her career aspirations with her evolving love life. Misunderstandings and hidden truths complicate her relationship with Will, mirroring real challenges in combining personal and professional worlds. The film illustrates that open communication and trust are essential for love to flourish.

• romance love relationships communication trust will ali

Ali gains the ability to hear men's thoughts, which serves as a magical element for self-discovery. This unique perspective prompts her to reevaluate her relationships and career strategies. Her journey shows that understanding others can lead to personal and professional liberation, but true success comes from using that insight ethically.

• self discovery telepathy powers introspection personal growth

Ali Davis is a successful sports agent who faces constant obstacles in her male-dominated field. She is driven and tenacious, constantly fighting to prove herself in the competitive world of sports management. After being denied a promotion, she mysteriously gains the ability to hear men's thoughts, which she initially uses to gain an advantage in her career.

• ali davis sports agent protagonist main character career

Will is a bartender who becomes Ali's romantic interest, bringing a heartfelt subplot to the story. His caring nature and complicated past add depth to their relationship. As Ali and Will work through misunderstandings, their bond deepens, representing love's resilience and the importance of authenticity in relationships.

• will bartender love interest romantic subplot ali relationship

Jamal Barry is a rising basketball star whom Ali desperately wants to sign as a client. He represents both her opportunity to prove her worth as an agent and the high-stakes competitive world of professional sports. His relationship with Ali adds tension and excitement to the story as both navigate their ambitions.

• jamal barry basketball player client sports agent nba

Brandon is Ali's dedicated assistant who supports her aspirations in the male-dominated sports industry. His loyalty and understanding make him a vital ally throughout her journey. Brandon provides comic relief while also grounding Ali emotionally as she navigates her challenging career.

• brandon assistant support ally comic relief