Wealth Doesn’t Buy Happiness, But It Sure Makes Life Easier – Or Does It?
Good Fortune (2025), written, directed by, and starring Aziz Ansari, is a hilarious and thought-provoking comedy that flips the script on the age-old adage that money can’t buy happiness. But here’s where it gets controversial: while the film acknowledges the limitations of wealth, it boldly argues that financial stability undeniably paves the way for a more relaxed and enjoyable life. Imagine a world where every problem doesn’t spiral into a financial catastrophe—sounds appealing, right? Yet, Ansari’s sharp wit challenges us to question whether society’s obsession with wealth has created a chasm between the haves and have-nots that’s impossible to bridge.
A Divine Twist on Class Struggle
At the heart of Good Fortune is Gabriel (Keanu Reeves), a well-intentioned but restless angel who’s tired of his mundane heavenly job: preventing texting drivers from crashing. Aspiring to greater things—like saving suicidal souls and earning bigger, flyable wings—Gabriel takes matters into his own hands. He intervenes in the lives of Arg (Aziz Ansari), a struggling gig worker, and Jeff (Seth Rogen), a wealthy but oblivious venture capitalist. And this is the part most people miss: the film isn’t just about swapping lives for laughs; it’s a biting commentary on the thankless nature of the modern workforce and the widening gap between the working class and the elite.
Life-Swapping Shenanigans with a Purpose
Arg, whose life is a series of misfortunes—from sleeping in his car to enduring a father obsessed with his successful cousin—finds himself cleaning Jeff’s garage. Seizing an opportunity, Arg becomes Jeff’s assistant, briefly savoring the perks of wealth. But when Jeff fires him (thanks to a contrived incident that feels a bit forced), Gabriel steps in, swapping their lives. The result? A hilarious exploration of privilege, struggle, and self-discovery. Gabriel, now human and wingless, learns the harsh realities of earthly existence, while Arg and Jeff navigate each other’s worlds with eye-opening results.
A Star-Studded Ensemble That Steals the Show
Keanu Reeves delivers a lovably dimwitted performance as Gabriel, channeling his Bill & Ted charm. Seth Rogen shines as the privileged Jeff, whose journey from clueless to empathetic is both funny and heartfelt. Aziz Ansari’s Arg is relatable and nuanced, showcasing the relief of newfound wealth without falling into stereotypes. Keke Palmer stands out as Elena, a worker rights activist whose relationship with Arg adds depth to the narrative.
Flaws? Yes. Forgettable? Never.
While Good Fortune occasionally leans into heavy-handed messaging and stretches its runtime, its flaws pale in comparison to its strengths. The film’s humor is relentless, its commentary on class inequality is razor-sharp, and its heart is in the right place. But here’s the real question: does the film’s theoretical solution to reversing the life swap—hinted at early on—deserve more attention? Or is it better left unaddressed? Let us know in the comments.
Final Verdict
Good Fortune is a cathartic comedy that doesn’t shy away from bold statements. It’s funny, insightful, and unapologetically honest about the role of money in our lives. Whether you agree with its take on wealth and happiness or not, one thing’s for sure: this film will leave you laughing—and thinking.
