Whatever Works

Boris Yellnikoff, a self-proclaimed misanthrope with a penchant for nihilism, dwells in a luxurious apartment in New York City. His cynicism and negativity serve as a defense mechanism against the societal pressures and expectations of the world around him. As he navigates his mundane life, Boris is abruptly disrupted by the arrival of Melody St. Ann Celeste Gallagher, a free-spirited and impressionable young woman from the rural South. Melody, fleeing an unsatisfying marriage to Lon Hammond, a pompous and arrogant academic, escapes to New York City in search of a fresh start. Melody, an idealistic and trusting individual, stumbles upon Boris's apartment and seeks refuge from her troubled past. Initially, Boris is reluctant to take Melody in, but he eventually warms up to her due to her charming innocence and vulnerability. The peculiar relationship between Boris and Melody begins to blossom, but their bond is put to the test when Lon, determined to reclaim Melody, arrives in New York, along with her parents, Teefa and John. As Lon becomes more and more aggressive in his pursuit of Melody, Boris feels threatened and tries to assert himself as Melody's protector. This, combined with the arrival of Melody's parents, creates a complex web of romance and relationships. The uptight, conservative parents are shocked at the unfamiliar culture and customs of New York City, while they grapple with their complicated feelings towards Boris and his unorthodox lifestyle. Meanwhile, a romance blossoms between Boris and Viveca, a sophisticated and cultured woman. Viveca, unlike the pretentious academics surrounding Melody, appreciates Boris's raw individuality and authenticity. However, her refined sensibilities also clash with Boris's misanthropic tendencies, leading to a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition. Throughout the film, Woody Allen masterfully weaves together themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. Each character, whether they are Boris, Melody, or even the eccentric and exasperated supporting cast, is a reflection of Allen's characteristic wit and insight. As the story unfolds, we see that finding love is indeed a matter of luck, chance, and appreciating the value of "whatever works." In the end, the relationships between Boris, Melody, Viveca, and the supporting cast reach a poignant conclusion. Boris, once the epitome of misanthropy, discovers the beauty of human connection and love. Melody, having shed her innocent naivety, learns to appreciate the complexities and uncertainties of life. The film concludes on a note of hope and renewal, suggesting that even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty, "whatever works" is always worth embracing.