Whatever Works is a 2009 romantic comedy written and directed by Woody Allen and released by Sony Pictures Classics. The picture centers on an idiosyncratic, misanthropic intellectual and the unlikely young woman who becomes his companion. It blends broad humor with sharp dialogue and social observation typical of Allen's later work while showcasing the screen presence of television comedian Larry David.

Premise and themes

The core story follows an eccentric, crotchety retired professor and his encounter with a naïve, energetic young woman. Their relationship prompts discussions of love, compromise, hypocrisy and the distance between intellectual cynicism and ordinary optimism. The film mixes screwball elements and satirical commentary about modern relationships, political views and generational differences.

Cast and characters

The cast combines established character actors with younger performers. Principal performers include:

  • Larry David — the central role, delivering a comic performance built on bluntness and wit.
  • Evan Rachel Wood — portraying the young woman whose arrival upends the protagonist's routine.
  • Ed Begley Jr. — in a supporting role.
  • Patricia Clarkson — appearing among the secondary players.
  • Henry Cavill — one of several younger actors in smaller parts early in his career.
  • Additional ensemble members include familiar character actors who contribute to the film's conversational style.

Production and release

Written and directed by Allen, the film is an American–French production that follows Allen's long-running pattern of economical, dialogue-driven filmmaking. It was distributed by Sony Pictures Classics and premiered in 2009. The production emphasized performances and dialogue over spectacle, with a compact runtime and a focus on urban life.

Reception and legacy

Critical response was mixed to positive: many reviewers praised the lead performance and sharp exchanges, while some found the tone uneven or the satire heavy-handed. The film is often noted for giving Larry David a showcase outside television comedy and for including a young Henry Cavill before his later mainstream stardom. For viewers interested in relationship comedies with a satirical edge, Whatever Works remains a representative example of Allen's late-period filmography.

Notable facts

  • The film uses a small ensemble to support a dialogue-centered approach.
  • It continues Allen's frequent exploration of romantic mismatches and philosophical conversation.
  • Distributed by Sony Pictures Classics, it reached international arthouse audiences upon release.