Aziz Ansari makes his feature directing debut with Good Fortune, a warm and playful comedy about angels, ambition, and the messy business of figuring out what really matters. The film stars Keanu Reeves, Seth Rogen, Aziz Ansari, Keke Palmer, and Sandra Oh, blending whimsical moments with a sharp, funny look at modern life.

Keanu Reeves plays Gabriel, a low-ranking guardian angel with good intentions but questionable judgment. He decides to step in when he notices Arj (Ansari), a gig worker barely scraping by in Los Angeles. In a well-meaning but misguided attempt to show him that money can’t fix everything, Gabriel swaps Arj into the life of his wealthy boss, Jeff (Rogen). Unsurprisingly, Arj discovers that being rich makes life a lot easier, leaving Gabriel grounded on Earth without his wings. Suddenly, the angel must navigate human life, from late-night street tacos to chaotic jobs, and watch his plan spiral out of control, forcing everyone involved to reckon with what truly matters.

Ansari clearly had fun paying homage to films like Trading Places and City of Angels, but he makes the story feel fresh and modern. Reeves is quietly funny as Gabriel, awkward yet unexpectedly tender, while Rogen delivers his signature energy as the privileged Jeff. Palmer and Oh add sharpness and warmth, giving the story extra heart and helping it avoid feeling like just another body-swap comedy.

Underneath the laughs, Good Fortune touches on ideas about class, work, and what gives life meaning, but it never gets heavy-handed. Ansari threads these themes through a story about friendship, second chances, and finding joy in the little moments. From playful jabs at billionaire culture to quiet, human connections, the film balances humor with heart in a way that feels effortless.

Did you know?

This is Aziz Ansari’s first feature as a director, following his acclaimed work on Master of None. Keanu Reeves has said he was drawn to the role because it mixes comedy with real warmth, calling Gabriel “an angel who learns what it means to love being human.”

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