Roles Reversed: How ‘Ladies First’ Flips the Script on Workplace Culture

Movie Profile: LADIES FIRST (2026)

Trailer

Plot Overview

Damien Sachs (Sacha Baron Cohen) is an arrogant, unapologetic chauvinist and advertising executive who routinely objectifies women and uses toxic workplace tactics to get ahead. After a heated argument on the street, Damien accidentally knocks himself unconscious.

When he awakens, he finds that he has been transported into an alternate parallel universe—a matriarchal society where gender roles are entirely reversed. In this new world, women hold all the power, wealth, and executive authority, while men are subjected to systemic workplace discrimination, catcalling, and superficial social expectations.

To regain his standing, Damien must go head-to-head with Alex Fox (Rosamund Pike), a ruthless, highly calculating female executive who matches his ambition. As Damien experiences what it is like to navigate life under daily gender inequality, he is forced to re-examine his own values while locking horns—and developing an unexpected connection—with his fierce rival.

Key Highlights & Context

• Adaptation of a French Hit: The film is an English-language reimagining of the popular 2018 French Netflix comedy I Am Not an Easy Man (Je ne suis pas un homme facile).

• Thea Sharrock at the Helm: Directed by acclaimed British director Thea Sharrock (Me Before You, Wicked Little Letters).

• Subverting Modern Tropes: The movie plays heavily on satirical role-reversal gags—ranging from women catcalling male construction workers to corporate double standards—designed to hold up a mirror to real-world gender dynamics.