Whatever Works

Whatever Works

Year: 2009

Language: English

ComedyRomance

A cynical and grumpy older man finds his predictable life disrupted by a vibrant, young runaway in this New York-set comedy. When her concerned parents arrive to take her home, they become unexpectedly drawn into a chain of romantic events. The film explores the unpredictable nature of love and the importance of accepting life's unexpected turns, ultimately suggesting that embracing change and finding joy in the unexpected is key to happiness.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Whatever Works (2009)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Whatever Works (2009). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Present Day

The movie unfolds in contemporary times, highlighting modern dilemmas such as personal identity, love, and societal expectations. This period is marked by significant cultural shifts, especially regarding relationships and individual freedoms.

Location

New York City, Mississippi

New York City serves as a vibrant backdrop, representing the liberal values and diverse lifestyles that challenge traditional norms. In contrast, Mississippi is depicted as Melody's strict hometown, embodying a conservative environment from which she escapes to find personal freedom and new experiences.

🌆 City 🌿 Countryside

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:02

Main Characters – Whatever Works (2009)

Meet the key characters of Whatever Works (2009), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Boris Yelnikoff (Larry David)

Boris is a highly intellectual yet cynical former professor who navigates the complexities of love and life with a sharp wit. His misanthropic tendencies often mask a deeper longing for connection and understanding, amplifying his character's internal struggles and growth.

🧠 Intellectual 😒 Cynical 💔 Heartbroken

Melody (Evan Rachel Wood)

Melody is a naive yet earnest young woman who evolves throughout the film, transitioning from a simple, sheltered life to embracing the vibrant chaos of New York. Her journey of self-discovery and her relationships highlight her innocence and desire for independence.

🌸 Innocent 💕 Romantic 🌱 Evolving

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:02

Major Themes – Whatever Works (2009)

Explore the central themes of Whatever Works (2009), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Love

The film explores various forms of love, juxtaposing Boris's unanticipated affection for Melody against the complexities of their age difference. It also delves into familial love, as Melody's relationship with her parents evolves throughout the narrative, ultimately reflecting the struggle to align personal desires with family expectations.

🎨 Transformation

Character transformation is a central theme, particularly with Melody and her mother, Marietta. As they adapt to life in New York, their personal growth leads to the embrace of new values and lifestyles, contrasting their previously conservative beliefs.

🌈 Self-Discovery

The theme of self-discovery is prevalent, especially for Boris and Melody. Their journeys reflect the pursuit of individual happiness, challenging societal norms and expectations, and ultimately finding joy in unexpected relationships.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:02

Unlock the Full Story of Whatever Works

Don't stop at just watching — explore Whatever Works in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Whatever Works is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Whatever Works Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Whatever Works, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Whatever Works Summary

Whatever Works Timeline

Track the full timeline of Whatever Works with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Whatever Works Timeline

More About Whatever Works

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Whatever Works: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Whatever Works

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