Somewhere, the late director Frank Capra, who gave us “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “You Can’t Take it With You,” is smiling down on this movie. That means you’ll be smiling up at “Good Fortune” when you see it on the big screen.
With a message that’s a little more grim than you might expect, the idea of the Aziz Ansari’s movie is hilarious, goodhearted and has a social conscience about comparing the lives of the incredibly wealthy to the those of the impoverished and the economic rift that’s all too real.
Ansari plays Arj, a guy who can’t make ends meet despite working constantly. When he’s not trying to sleep in his car, which is where he lives, he either delivers food to angry customers who complain about their orders or he’s climbing a ladder in a chain store called Hardware Heaven. The only bright spot in Arj’s life is Elena (Keke Palmer,) who is determined to start a union at Hardware Heaven.
Watching over Arj is an angel named Gabriel (Keanu Reeves, whose joyful, positive character owns this film.) Gabriel shouldn’t have anything to do with Arj, because his task to keep people safe from texting and driving.
Gabriel wants to do something more meaningful, and without asking his boss, takes it upon himself to encourage the distraught Arj, showing him what his life could be like if he just hangs in there.
Thing is, once Arj has a taste of the good life, he doesn’t want to switch back.
If Reeves is the only reason you want to see this movie, you won’t be disappointed. Gabriel has lessons to learn, too – just wait until he tries a milkshake for the first time, or takes to the dance floor,
The finale feels a little rushed. But the whole movie has heart all the way through, and a lovable cast that inhabit endearing characters.
You don’t need to believe in angels to consider this thoughtful comedy a blessing.
3 1/2 stars
Running time: One hour and 37 minutes.
Rated: R for foul language and sexual situations.
In theaters.
Watch the trailer here.