The Whole Wide World
The Whole Wide World

The Whole Wide World

1996Movie106 minEnglish

In 1930s Texas, pulp fiction master Robert E. Howard is introduced to Novalyne Price, a teacher with aspirations of becoming an author herself, and they begin a unique relationship filled with conversation and imagination. Although the possibility exists for romance, Howard's obsession with his work and dedication to his sick mother leads Price to look elsewhere for love, leaving Howard feeling betrayed and alone.

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Insights

IMDb6.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes77%
Metacritic60/100
Google Users81%
Director: Dan IrelandGenres: Drama, Biography, Romance

Plot Summary

In 1930s Texas, a lonely, unpublished writer named Jonothan Small becomes obsessed with the pulp fiction magazines featuring his idol, pulp writer Robert E. Howard. He finds an unlikely kindred spirit in the spirited Vance Medina, a local waitress and aspiring writer. Their intense, intellectual connection blossoms amidst Small's struggles to get his own work published and his growing delusions of grandeur.

Critical Reception

The Whole Wide World received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its charming performances, particularly Vincent D'Onofrio's portrayal of the eccentric Small, and its nostalgic depiction of a bygone era. While some found the pacing a bit slow, most appreciated its thoughtful exploration of obsession and the creative spirit.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for Vincent D'Onofrio's compelling and nuanced performance.
  • Appreciated for its atmospheric and nostalgic portrayal of the 1930s.
  • Found to be a charming, albeit sometimes slow-paced, character study.

Google audience: Audiences generally enjoyed the film, highlighting the strong lead performance and the unique story. Some viewers found the narrative a bit meandering, but the overall sentiment was positive, with many appreciating the film's character-driven approach.

Fun Fact

The film is based on the autobiographical novel 'The Texasville Host' by Jonothan Small, who was a real-life Texan writer.

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TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
Wuchak

Wuchak

Dating Conan the Barbarian’s creator in the heart of Texas in 1934-1936 Released in 1996, the movie focuses on budding writer Novalyne Price Ellis (Renée Zellweger) and her experiences with famous pulp writer, Robert E. Howard (Vincent D...