Jackpot! : When the Big Win Dream Turns into a Deadly Nightmare
If you’ve ever dreamed of hitting the jackpot, Jackpot!, the new film by Paul Feig available on Prime Video, might make you think twice. We had the chance to see the film in advance—here’s our review.
Jackpot! takes us to the year 2030, in a California devastated by the Great Depression of 2026. In this unprecedented economic crisis, the California government, desperately seeking funds, has instituted an extreme lottery in Los Angeles. The concept? A lucky citizen can win a massive sum, but with one condition: they must survive until sunset. On that day, anyone who successfully eliminates the lottery winner can claim the prize. In this deadly game, all weapons are allowed except firearms. When Katie, an ordinary young woman, accidentally wins $3.6 billion, her life is turned upside down. Hunted by eager predators, she must find a way to stay alive. That’s when she meets Noel, a stranger determined to protect her at all costs until the end of the day. Together, they must navigate a city in chaos, where every street corner could become their last.
Directed by Paul Feig and based on a screenplay by Rob Yescombe, Jackpot! stands out for its overflowing energy and distinctly quirky tone, though some jokes may occasionally fall flat. The film delivers a sharp critique of exacerbated inequalities within a dystopian society, symbolized by a lottery system where survival becomes a game. Beyond this social dimension, Jackpot! also delves into the ruthless world of show business. Katie, a young woman aspiring to make it in Hollywood, finds herself immersed in a fierce competition, facing real agents and dubious business practices. In her desperate search for a role to gain recognition, she realizes that the real game is just as much about the backstage dealings as it is about the dangerous streets of Los Angeles.
We remain divided on Jackpot!. The film successfully conveys a clear message about the excesses of a crisis-stricken society, but it suffers from often haphazard and occasionally incoherent scenes. Awkwafina adds a charming touch of humor, handling jokes with ease, and her unlikely pairing with John Cena provides some genuinely funny moments. The ban on firearms paves the way for creative combat with unique weapons, yet this does not suffice to make the film compelling. In the end, Jackpot! lacks depth, and there are moments when one might question whether it’s worth the time, as the plot struggles to maintain coherence.
Our opinions are mixed, but we agree on one thing: the Katie/Noel duo is what saves the film. Their unlikely yet genuine chemistry brings an energy and humor that elevates the entire experience. Through their interactions, certain scenes manage to capture our attention, adding an undeniable charm to the film.
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