I was never into wide angle in a big way until I purchased the Canon 11-24. This thing is unbelievable. It has geometric correction and superb fidelity edge to edge so produces great images. It is wonderful to be able to go back and back until your feet show up in the picture.
It is definitely a "game changer" in my photography. I have been too lazy to upload my images taken with it but when I do, I will post some.
But yes, for many other applications it is the wrong choice.