Netflix’s most recent release Ladies First sees Rosamund Pike and Sacha Baron Cohen reverse gender norms in this comical and satirical take on what it means to live in the modern era.
This film from director Thea Sharrock (Me Before You) follows Sacha Baron Cohen’s character Damien Sachs in his attempt to gain back his position of CEO when a knock to the head causes him to enter an alternate reality in which women run the show. Whilst initially he tries to fight back for his position against Alex Fox, played by Rosamund Pike, he eventually grows to appreciate what it is like to feel underappreciated and victimised.
With so much conversation around what it means “to be a man” nowadays, this film delves into the traditional stereotypes that we see applied to genders in the 21st century and decides to completely turn them on their head. What makes Ladies First stand out from other social satires is that it manages to explore these themes without becoming overly preachy. Instead, it relies on awkward humour, exaggerated workplace scenarios, and moments of genuine discomfort to make its point.
Sacha Baron Cohen is unsurprisingly the highlight of the film. His chaotic style of comedy works perfectly for Damien, a man who begins the film overflowing with confidence and entitlement, only to slowly realise how much privilege he previously took for granted. Some of the funniest scenes come from watching Damien struggle through experiences that many women would consider painfully familiar, from being interrupted in meetings to being judged more for his appearance than his abilities. Baron Cohen plays these moments with a mix of arrogance and confusion that keeps the humour sharp without completely undermining the message.
Rosamund Pike also delivers a strong performance as Alex Fox. Rather than portraying her as a one-dimensional “girlboss” stereotype, Pike gives the character intelligence and restraint, making her feel believable even within the film’s exaggerated premise. Her calm and calculated approach contrasts well with Baron Cohen’s frantic energy, and the chemistry between the two leads helps keep the story engaging throughout.
That being said, the film does occasionally lean too heavily into obvious jokes, and there are moments where the satire feels slightly repetitive. Some scenes seem designed more for viral clips than meaningful commentary, which can make the pacing drag in the second half. However, even when the humour misses, the film’s core message remains clear. It encourages audiences to reflect on the inequalities and expectations that still exist in society, while also poking fun at the absurdity of modern gender debates.
Overall, Ladies First is an entertaining and surprisingly thoughtful comedy that balances social commentary with genuinely funny moments. It may not be subtle, but it does not really try to be. Instead, it embraces exaggeration in order to challenge audiences to see familiar issues from a completely different perspective. Whether viewers agree with its message or not, the film definitely succeeds in getting people talking, and that alone makes it worth watching.
★★★1/2
22nd May 2026 / Sacha Baron Cohen, Rosamund Pike, Charles Dance, Emily Mortimer, Tom Davis, Fiona Shaw, Richard E. Grant. / Dir: Thea Sharrock / Netflix
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