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Whatever Works

Whatever Works

Representation Score

6.7/10

Good

2009

PG-13

Director

Woody Allen

Runtime

92 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Whatever Works is a character-driven film centered on moral and philosophical subjectivity. It succeeds in challenging traditional gender hierarchies by giving the female lead significant influence and intellectual weight. However, the film struggles with demographic breadth, featuring a largely homogenous cast and setting. The narrative prioritizes class-based distinctions over racial or ethnic diversity. Ultimately, the film excels in its postmodern critique of social structures while missing opportunities for broader inclusive storytelling.

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Category Breakdown

Does Whatever Works have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film does not prominently feature characters who identify outside the cisgender norm or include queer narratives. Romantic relationships are mostly within a heterosexual framework, limiting intentional inclusion of LGBTQ+ themes.

How does Whatever Works portray gender?

Good

Melody challenges traditional patriarchal roles by serving as the intellectual and emotional driver of the story. Her superior life perspective guides the protagonist through his personal growth.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Whatever Works?

Limited

The cast predominantly consists of a homogenous demographic within a specific New York socioeconomic bracket. The narrative focuses on class-based differences rather than incorporating diverse racial or ethnic backgrounds.

How does Whatever Works represent religion and culture?

Good

The story embraces moral relativism and deconstructs traditional social institutions. It prioritizes situational ethics and individual truths over fixed institutional values or parental authority.

Does Whatever Works include disability representation?

Limited

Psychological conditions are portrayed as comedic elements rather than nuanced depictions of mental health. These states serve as stylistic elements of the neurotic intellectual archetype.

Present on Screen

  • Challenges traditional gender hierarchies by positioning the female lead as the intellectual catalyst.
  • Deconstructs rigid social and familial institutions through a relativistic worldview.
  • Provides a progressive critique of traditional authority and social norms.

Limited or Absent

  • Lacks meaningful representation of LGBTQ+ identities or queer narratives.
  • Fails to integrate diverse racial or ethnic perspectives into the central conflict.
  • Treats mental health and neuroses as comedic clichés rather than lived experiences.

Official Synopsis

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."

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