Ticketworthy! - Good Fortune

In Good Fortune, director Aziz Ansari delivers a heartwarming satire that blends economic commentary with relatable characters. Gabriel (Keanu Reeves), a well-meaning guardian angel, tries to help struggling gig worker Arj (Aziz Ansari) find value in the difficulties of his life. He plans to teach Arj that wealth won’t solve his problems—by swapping Arj’s life with that of his well-off boss, Jeff (Seth Rogen). But when the plan backfires and Arj decides that he doesn’t want to go back to his old life, chaos ensues.

While Reeves is famous for his roles in action movies, his portrayal of Gabriel as an endearing, deadpan angel is masterfully done. He perfectly blends the gentle character with the comedic elements of the film. Ansari’s character Arj is a relatable down-on-his-luck guy with a dry sense of humor that carries the plot through his many plights. Rogen’s Jeff is a charming tech guy who has too much luck. Together, these characters create a heartwarming trio with a mix of humor that switches between refreshing and clunky throughout the film.

The film’s focus on inequality in the gig worker economy is consistent throughout the film, but rarely explored deeply enough to be poignant. Arj’s girlfriend Elena (Keke Palmer) and her mission to improve the conditions in her workplace are the strongest examples of a willingness to change this inequality. But as a side character, Elena’s drive takes a backseat to Arj, Jeff, and Gabriel’s attempts to fix the problem they have created.

Overall, Good Fortune is a predictable comedy with some standout characters, clunky dialogue, and attempts at deeper themes that don’t quite land. The wry humor is amusing but rarely laugh-inducing. While the film’s focus on inequality in the gig worker economy is well-timed, this theme is treated too lightly to be poignant. Good Fortune is perfect as a casual watch and a lighthearted reminder to count your blessings.