Whatever Works (2009)

Whatever Works is a darkly comic, offbeat romantic dramedy about an unlikely Pygmalion-style relationship and the cultural collision that follows. You meet Boris Yellnikoff, a brilliant but misanthropic, middle‑aged former academic who rails against religion, sentimentality and the general stupidity of humanity. When naive, deeply religious Southern runaway Melodie St. Ann Celestine turns up on his doorstep, he grudgingly takes her in — and what begins as temporary charity becomes a strange, transformative friendship that upends both their lives. Watching the film, you’ll experience sharp, sardonic wit and extended philosophical riffs from Boris balanced against Melodie’s guileless optimism and earnest faith. The tone shifts between acerbic monologue and gentle, sometimes awkward tenderness as Boris attempts to remake Melodie in his image while she, in her simple way, chips away at his cynicism. The arrival of Melodie’s parents forces the two worlds to collide, producing cultural misunderstandings, family drama and unexpected emotional moments. Expect brisk, dialogue‑driven scenes, character‑based humor, and a mix of satire and sweetness. The film explores themes of loneliness, belief, love across generations, and whether people can really change — all delivered with an irreverent, “whatever works” spirit. It’s funny, occasionally pointed, and quietly human: a film that will make you laugh, wince, and reflect on the strange compromises that keep people connected.

Actors: Evan Rachel Wood, Larry David, Henry Cavill

Director: Woody Allen

Runtime: 93 min

Genres: Comedy, Romance

7.0 /10 45 /100 7.1 /10 6.2 /10