Prepare to have your heart warmed and your funny bone tickled, because Aziz Ansari’s Good Fortune is here to prove that even in the chaos of late-stage capitalism, there’s still room for laughter and self-discovery. Opening in theaters on October 17, this celestial comedy of errors is a refreshing take on the age-old 'life-swap' trope, cleverly flipping the script on classics like It’s a Wonderful Life while staying grounded in relatable, modern struggles. But here’s where it gets controversial: can a comedy truly tackle the harsh realities of poverty and still leave you smiling? Ansari says yes—and he does it brilliantly.
At its core, Good Fortune feels like a masterclass in balancing humor with heart. The film follows Arj (Ansari), a man scraping by in Los Angeles, living out of his car and relying on gig apps to survive. Enter Gabriel (Keanu Reeves), a bumbling, low-level angel whose job is to save people from texting-and-driving accidents. Gabriel becomes obsessed with Arj, convinced he’s a lost soul worth saving—even though that’s not technically his job. And this is the part most people miss: the film isn’t just about Arj’s journey; it’s a sharp critique of the invisible barriers that keep people trapped in poverty. As James Baldwin once said, 'Anyone who has ever struggled with poverty knows how extremely expensive it is to be poor.' Good Fortune wraps this harsh truth in a warm, charming blanket, making it accessible without sugarcoating the struggle.
Keanu Reeves steals the show as Gabriel, leaning into his lovable goofball persona with hilarious results. His innocent, wide-eyed take on the world allows the film to explain societal inequities in a way that feels both gentle and profound. Meanwhile, Seth Rogen shines as Jeff, a wealthy tech bro whose privilege blinds him to the struggles of others. The trio of Arj, Gabriel, and Jeff forms a delightful dynamic, forcing each character—and the audience—to confront their own flaws and assumptions.
Keke Palmer delivers a standout performance as Arj’s co-worker, adding depth to the story with her efforts to unionize their workplace. Fun fact: both Palmer and Rogen were holdovers from Ansari’s canceled project Being Mortal, making Good Fortune feel like a triumphant phoenix rising from the ashes. The film’s behind-the-scenes history adds an extra layer of appreciation for its existence.
What makes Good Fortune truly special is its ability to blend genres seamlessly. It’s a comedy, sure, but it’s also a social commentary, a buddy movie, and a heartfelt exploration of gratitude. Ansari and co-writer Alan Yang (of Parks and Recreation fame) strike a perfect balance between humor and honesty, creating a film that’s as rewarding as it is entertaining. And let’s not forget the surprise joy of seeing Keanu Reeves in a role that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.
But here’s the question: does Good Fortune do enough to challenge its audience, or does it play it too safe? Some might argue that its feel-good tone softens its critique of systemic issues. What do you think? Does comedy have a responsibility to push boundaries, or is it enough to simply entertain while subtly educating? Let’s debate in the comments.
If you’re heading to the theater, consider going in as blind as possible. The trailer only scratches the surface of the film’s wit and warmth, and the surprises along the way make the experience even more enjoyable. Good Fortune is a rare gem—a big-screen comedy that doesn’t just make you laugh but also leaves you pondering life’s bigger questions. It’s witty, warm, and wonderfully human, proving that Ansari’s directorial debut (after a few false starts) was well worth the wait. So, grab your popcorn and get ready to laugh, reflect, and maybe even shed a tear or two. Good Fortune is a heavenly treat you won’t want to miss.
