A new Danish documentary, “The World’s Sweetest Men,” explores the challenges faced by modern men in a society where women have gained significant financial and social power. The film, directed by Josefine Exner and Sebastian Gerdes, questions whether traditionally “sweet” and empathetic men are truly what women desire, and examines the potential consequences of men feeling superfluous in their relationships and society.

The documentary highlights a potential double standard, where women outwardly express a desire for sensitive and emotionally intelligent men, but may be more attracted to men who are confident, financially stable, and even exhibit “toxic” behaviors. This creates confusion and challenges for men who are trying to navigate modern relationships.

The filmmakers argue that as women gain more power, they also have a responsibility to consider the impact on men and the type of masculinity they are promoting through their choices. They suggest that women should be mindful of who they give their attention to, and avoid inadvertently reinforcing patriarchal structures by consistently choosing “toxic” men over “sweet” ones.

The documentary also touches upon the vulnerability men experience when they don’t feel needed, especially financially. It features a scene with a group of educated men who feel superfluous because they struggle to support their families, leading to feelings of inadequacy and a need for psychological support.

The film’s directors hope to raise awareness of these issues and encourage a new understanding of what people truly fall in love with, so that individuals can make conscious choices that promote healthier and more balanced relationships.