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Poster for Wonderful World

Wonderful World

Happiness is a state of mind

2009 · 1h 29m · R Comedy, Drama, Romance
Directed by Joshua Goldin

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Overview

Ben Singer is a failed children's folk singer, a career proofreader, a less-than-extraordinary weekend dad, and perhaps the most negative man alive. Floundering in all aspects of his life, Ben's only comfort comes from regular chess games and friendly debates on game theory with his Senegalese roommate Ibou. When Ibou is suddenly struck ill, Ben's pessimistic worldview seems unequivocally confirmed. It takes an extended visit from Ibou's sister Khadi for Ben to realize that cynicism may be all a matter of perspective.

Director and cast

Critics on Rotten Tomatoes

Top critics, in their words

All reviews
42%
Tomatometer
Fresh

If ... Wonderful World seem(s) a little tired, the film still has its own low-key pleasures, thanks to Broderick's restrained performance and a script that punctuates the inescapable saccharine of its storyline with tart little bursts of anger.

Dan Kois, Washington Post
Rotten

While this movie is earnest and well-intentioned, it doesn't quite work.

A.O. Scott, At the Movies
Rotten

Not quite good enough.

Michael Phillips, At the Movies
Rotten

Despite a film festival pedigree (it was shown at a number of local festivals on the 2009 circuit), the movie is so lightweight and inconsequential that a review seems almost superfluous.

James Berardinelli, ReelViews
Fresh

The movie itself is a little too tidy, a little too determined to convey a lesson, but the character sticks with you.

John Hartl, Seattle Times

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