Whatever Works
Seen it?2009 | 92 min | Comedy, Romance
Weeknight WatchWhy it’s a Weeknight Watch
With middling reviews (50% on Rotten Tomatoes) and little lasting buzz, it's a mixed bag. Fine if it's on; don't plan your night around it.
Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.Is it for you?
- Who'll love it
- Made for romantics and anyone who wants a laugh. If you loved Barefoot in the Park, start here. Audiences love it more than critics do: a crowd-pleaser first.
- The mood
- Light and funny, romantic.
- The pace
- Breezy, at 1 hr 32 min.
- What might put you off
- Rated PG-13. Probably too much for younger kids.
Whatever Works explores the relationship between a crotchety misanthrope, Boris and a naïve, impressionable young runaway from the south, Melody. When Melody's uptight parents arrive in New York to rescue her, they are quickly drawn into wildly unexpected romantic entanglements. Everyone discovers that finding love is just a combination of lucky chance and appreciating the value of "whatever works."
How it earned its rating
- CriticsBelow par
50% on Rotten Tomatoes, 45 on Metacritic
- AudiencesSolid
7.1 out of 10
- AwardsNot counted
No major awards or nominations
- Box office & staying powerSolid
$36 million worldwide on a $15 million budget; still draws a steady audience long after release
- Buzz & cultural impactBelow par
About 62K people sought it out in the past year
Trailer
More like this
Everyone Says I Love You
Sunday Safe BetAlso from director Woody Allen: a romantic comedy, and a safe bet for a quiet night.
Barefoot in the Park
Saturday SpecialAnother romantic comedy, and a Saturday Special.
Keeping the Faith Weeknight WatchAnother romantic comedy, though it's more of a weeknight watch.
The Wrong Paris Weeknight WatchAnother romantic comedy, though it's more of a weeknight watch.
My Best Friend's Wedding Sunday Safe BetAnother romantic comedy, and a safe bet for a quiet night.
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Cast & crew
Directed by Woody Allen
- Larry DavidBoris Yellnikoff
- Evan Rachel WoodMelodie St. Ann Celestine
- Michael McKeanJoe - Boris' Friend #3
- Conleth HillLeo Brockman
- Patricia ClarksonMarietta
- Ed Begley Jr.John
- Carolyn McCormickJessica
- Henry CavillRandy James
- John Gallagher Jr.Perry
- Christopher Evan WelchHoward