Whatever Works
Performance & Direction: Whatever Works Review
Last updated: February 20, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Whatever Works (2009) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.1/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Comedy.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Comedy is often anchored by its ensemble, and Whatever Works features a noteworthy lineup led by Larry David . Supported by the likes of Evan Rachel Wood and Michael McKean , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Whatever Works
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2009, Whatever Works is a Comedy, Romance film directed by Woody Allen. The narrative brings laughter through sharp writing and comedic timing, providing amusement while touching on deeper societal themes. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Larry David.
Story Breakdown
The comedic structure relies on both situational humor and character-based comedy. 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." The production finds humor in relatable situations while maintaining narrative momentum. The jokes serve the story, with callbacks that reward attentive viewers.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The opening establishes the comedic tone and introduces the central conflict through humor and character quirks.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Larry David's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The comedic climax ties together recurring jokes and character arcs, delivering both laughs and emotional satisfaction.
Ending Explained: Whatever Works
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Woody Allen, Whatever Works resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to comedy resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions involving Larry David, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the comedy themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Whatever Works reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Whatever Works?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Comedy films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Larry David or the director
- Want some laughs and light entertainment
Box Office Collection: Whatever Works
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $15.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $36.0M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Whatever Works Budget
The estimated production budget for Whatever Works is $15.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: Whatever Works
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Where to Watch Whatever Works Online?
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Amazon VideoApple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeWhatever Works Parents Guide & Age Rating
2009 AdvisoryWondering about Whatever Works age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Whatever Works is 92 minutes (1h 32m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.1/10, and global performance metrics, Whatever Works is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2009 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Whatever Works worth watching?
Whatever Works is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Comedy movies. It has a verified rating of 7.1/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Whatever Works parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Whatever Works identifies it as PG-13. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Whatever Works?
The total duration of Whatever Works is 92 minutes, which is approximately 1h 32m long.
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Critic Reviews for Whatever Works
It is an instant classic. One of my favorite movies for the holiday season.
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
