Taraji P. Henson plays a sports agent who has the ability to hear the inner-thoughts of men in the comedy "What Men Want." (Courtesy) 

Remakes are hard because hardcore fans of the original film often come out of the woodwork to shoot down something new they haven’t even seen yet. However, when a remake takes the basic original concept and makes it its own, the gamble can pay off.

With “What Men Want,” a loose remake of the Mel Gibson comedy “What Women Want,” the gamble absolutely pays off.

Rating: ***1/2 (out of 5)

Ali (Taraji P. Henson) plays a sports agent who is desperate to be promoted but can’t seem to break into the “boys club.” Despite being driven, she is not the best team player, which is causing some backlash. It also leads to problems in her personal life, including finding love and making time for friends.

At a bachelorette party, the bride-to-be hires Sister (Erykah Bade), a bizarre, discount psychic to come and do readings. During Ali’s reading, Sister gives Ali a special tea to help her understand men.

Later, Ali hits her head and wakes up with a new special ability — she can hear the inner-thoughts of men.

The only person she tells of her ability is her long-suffering assistant, Brandon (Josh Brener). Ali decides to use her powers to try and get a promotion by signing her first male client, Jamal Berry (Shane McGhie), a high school superstar and possible No. 1 pick in the NBA draft.

The only problem standing in her way is Jamal’s eccentric father, Joe Dolla (Tracy Morgan), who is a big believer in family. When bartender, Will (Aldis Hodge), shows up at Ali’s job with his son, Ben (Auston Jon Moore), to return her ID after a one-night stand, Ali seizes the opportunity to win Joe Dolla’s favor by posing as a family woman.

“What Men Want” is directed by Adam Shankman, who directed the 2007 musical version of “Hairspray” and has been a judge on “So You Think You Can Dance.”

Shankman puts his years as a choreographer and director to good use. He makes entertaining works. This movie is no different.

Henson is terrific as always. In her earlier work in “Empire” and “Hustle & Flow” she showed off her dramatic skills. Here she flexes some comedic muscle. Working with a slew of comic actors and comedians (including a random but welcome Pete Davidson cameo), she holds her own.

The two that almost steal the show are Badu, who has incredible comic skills, and Brener.

I think that if given a chance, “What Men Want” is going to find an audience that appreciates it. It’s a funny and the examination of empowerment, entitlement and equality allows for some nice heartfelt moments. It’s smarter and better than you think.