Whatever Works

Whatever Works is the latest from Woody Allen, and this time it's Larry DavidLarry David playing the "Woodman's" alter ego. Actually who better to take on this role since both these guys would likely finish in a tie for first place in a "who's more neurotic" contest. Mr. David plays Boris, a brilliant physicist, who somehow attracts a beautiful and quite dimwitted young homeless girl who has run away from her home in Mississippi to New York. Of course, the young "hottie" drawn to the aging and pessimistic older man seems to be the constant in Mr. Allen's films, and this one doesn't pull any surprises on that front. Evan Rachel WoodEvan Rachel Wood plays the young girl, with a mixture of wide-eyed innocence and knowing sexuality, and she's gradually able to take some of edge off of Boris, although not too much. Patricia Clarkson and Ed Begley JrEd Begley Jr. are excellent as the separated parents of the young runaway, and it's quite hysterical to observe the changes they go through after arriving in New York in search of their daughter. This film is by no means classic Woody AllenWoody Allen, but is actually quite funny throughout. If you enjoy Mr. David's work on Curb Your Enthusiasm, then you should definitely feel the same about this film.

Rating 3 (Solid)