Good Fortune is the feel-good surprise of the year.
I’ve been a big fan of Aziz Ansari since Parks and Recreation. However, when he created Master of None, I knew he had serious talent behind both the pen and the camera. With Good Fortune, Ansari proves himself to be a filmmaker with a distinct voice — one that seamlessly blends heart, humor, and humanity. Not only does he write and direct this feature, but he also stars in it, alongside two heavy-hitters: Seth Rogen, whose producing and writing career is on fire thanks to The Studio and other recent hits, and the one and only Keanu Reeves, who continues to show that he can do just about anything. Together, they form a trio that’s simply irresistible.
A Feel-Good Story with Depth and Laughs
Good Fortune centers on a struggling gig worker (Ansari) and a wealthy venture capitalist (Rogen) whose lives are thrown into chaos when an overenthusiastic angel named Gabriel (Reeves) meddles in their fates. The film is light on spectacle but rich in charm, tackling themes of privilege, purpose, and perspective in ways that feel surprisingly grounded. Ansari’s comedic touch makes the story relatable, while his direction brings warmth and sincerity to the chaos.
What makes this comedy stand out is its relatability and human quality. Beneath the laughs, it’s a story about empathy — about how we view others and the small choices that define our happiness. Ansari doesn’t just go for easy laughs; he aims for something more resonant, and he nails it.
The Supporting Cast Adds Balance
Keke Palmer brings her signature charisma and authenticity to the mix, grounding the story whenever it teeters on the edge of absurdity. Her presence adds a strong emotional core to counter what Aziz’s character was looking for.
Ansari’s chemistry with Rogen feels effortless, while Reeves steals every scene he’s in as the world’s most hilariously inept “budget” guardian angel. Watching the three of them play off one another is pure joy — an unpredictable and genuinely funny experience that keeps you smiling throughout.
Smart Writing and Timely Humor
The film’s script is packed with sharp observations about class, connection, and the human condition, all wrapped up in Ansari’s signature deadpan wit. It’s briskly paced at just under 100 minutes, but it manages to offer plenty: hilarious set pieces, sincere conversations, and unexpected turns that keep it from feeling predictable.
Ansari balances his social commentary with humor that feels universal. Whether you’re a struggling worker trying to make ends meet or someone reflecting on life’s blessings, there’s something here that will hit home.
Good Fortune is a heavenly, feel-good surprise — the kind of movie that reminds you why we love comedies with heart. Aziz Ansari delivers a confident and clever directorial debut, filled with warmth and wit, while Seth Rogen and Keanu Reeves elevate the material with pitch-perfect performances. Keke Palmer rounds out the cast with grounding charm, giving the film its emotional heartbeat.
Verdict
I give Good Fortune 5 out of 5 stars. This is one of the most entertaining and heartfelt comedies in years, and easily one of 2025’s biggest surprises. With sharp writing, laugh-out-loud moments, and real soul, this film is the perfect blend of humor and humanity. Who knew that pairing Rogen and Reeves would be pure bliss? After watching this, I’d honestly love to grab tacos and go dancing with the three of them.
Watch Good Fortune in theaters on October 17th.
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Sean Tajipour
Sean Tajipour is the Founder and Editor of Nerdtropolis and the host of the Moviegoers Society and Reel Insights Podcast. He is also a member of the Critics Choice Association. You can follow on Twitter and Instagram @Seantaj.
