Take 41: Good Fortune

In the star-studded film, Good Fortune, Keanu Reeves is Gabriel, a texting and driving angel. After he saves hard-luck Arj (Aziz Ansari) from a an accident, is a “lost soul” he feels compelled to operate beyond his pay grade and intervene in matters beyond his area of expertise. Hoping to teaching Arj that “life if wonderful” he has him switch places with Jeff (Seth Rogan), a wealthy venture capitalist. Unfortunately, Gabriel’s plan backfires and Arj isn’t too keen on ever switching back which has an effect on him, Jeff, Gabriel, and Elena (Keke Palmer), Arj’s love interest.

Ansari is playing the same character that he pretty much always does - the likable, Everyman who is a bit of an underdog and a bit of a bumbler. He is such a natural in this role you can’t help but wonder how much of this is just him playing himself.

Equally convincing in their role is Reeves as Gabriel. Keanu Reeves ha earned the reputation of being one of the nicest people in Hollywood and that comes across here. Gabriel possess an innocence and naïveté that is an otherworldly. He really does seem to just want the best of of everyone and there is not trace of cynasim anywhere. Yes, he messes up, but you can tell it’s not for lack of trying

Rogan and Palmer are there too, but to a lesser degree than Ansari and Reeves but they deliver solid performances. Rogan usually plays the hard-luck nice guy that Ansari gets to play here so it’s not to see him get to play a jerk for a change. He’s never TOO bad so his good guy reputation is maintained throughout.

Aziz Ansari wrote and directed this one and it shows. There are several instances where is brand of humor are definitely on display. He’s got a style and sense of humor that is recognizable. There is a clear voice.

That said, as far as this type of movie goes, there is nothing particularly original to see here. It’s pretty safe and predictable. It’s light and easy, not requiring much from the audience. But then not ever movie needs to move the needle. There is something to be said for something non-earth shattering .

My score: 7 There are enough minor laughs to keep you entertained, but pretty light overall.

Feeling fortunate? Leave a comment. And until next time…