Keanu Reeves Shines in Aziz Ansari’s Hilarious ‘Good Fortune’ Comedy

At the Toronto International Film Festival on Saturday, Aziz Ansari premiered his new film Good Fortune, a comedy featuring Keanu Reeves as a guardian angel. The story follows Ansari’s character, Arj, a struggling gig worker who finds his life turned upside down when an inept angel named Gabriel, played by Reeves, attempts to guide him. The film blends themes of spirituality and humor, marking Ansari’s debut as a feature film director, writer, and star.

The Plot Centers on a Struggling Man and His Guardian Angel

Arj is portrayed as a man juggling low-wage jobs, including standing in lines and food delivery, while living out of his car. After his vehicle is towed due to unpaid parking tickets, he accepts a personal assistant role for a wealthy hedge fund manager named Jeff, played by Seth Rogen. Unbeknownst to Arj, Gabriel, his guardian angel, watches over him and desires a more significant role beyond his minor duties.

Gabriel’s Mission and Consequences

Gabriel, frustrated with his limited angelic responsibilities—primarily preventing texting and driving accidents—decides to intervene in Arj’s life by attempting to swap Arj’s and Jeff’s lives temporarily. The goal is to help Arj appreciate his original life by experiencing prosperity first-hand. This plan angers Gabriel’s superior, portrayed by Sandra Oh, who retaliates by stripping Gabriel of his wings and rendering him human. Gabriel’s new existence includes working in a restaurant and coping with human vices such as smoking, highlighted in one of the funniest moments when he admits,

“I was a celestial being and now I’m a chain smoker addicted to nicotine,”

—Gabriel.

Comedic Takes on a Familiar Concept

While the storyline incorporates familiar elements seen in body swap comedies and guardian angel tales, Ansari’s sharp writing and Keanu Reeves’s deadpan delivery inject fresh energy into the film. Reeves’s portrayal of Gabriel provides a humorous balance to the film’s spiritual themes, especially as the narrative explores brotherly friendship and self-reflection reminiscent of classic films like It’s a Wonderful Life. Despite some predictable moments, the performances maintain an engaging tone throughout.

Supporting Cast and Thematic Undercurrents

Seth Rogen’s character Jeff undergoes the reverse transformation of falling into Arj’s gig economy struggles, while Keke Palmer plays the love interest whose role, though charming, remains underdeveloped. The film also touches on socio-economic contrasts, offering a soft critique of wealthy socialites who mistakenly believe they’ve succeeded without struggle. However, these themes are subtly handled, without becoming too biting or deeply satirical.

Overall Impression and Upcoming Release

Good Fortune presents a comedic yet thoughtful look at life’s challenges, choices, and humility through spiritual allegory. Though some secondary plots do not fully resonate, the chemistry among the cast and the witty writing make the 90-minute film a rewarding experience. Lionsgate plans to release the movie in theaters nationwide starting October 17, offering audiences a chance to enjoy this blend of comedy and contemplation.