A Killer Game of Chance: Reviewing Jackpot!

In a not-so-distant future, the government’s latest scheme to raise funds has turned into a deadly game of chance. The movie Jackpot!, directed by Paul Feig and starring Awkwafina, offers a satirical take on this dystopian concept. But does it pay off?

A Farcical Twist on an Old Story

The film’s premise is eerily reminiscent of Shirley Jackson’s short story “The Lottery,” where a small town’s sinister tradition turns deadly. In Jackpot!, buying a lottery ticket enters you into a chance to win billions. However, there’s a catch: everyone else can try to kill the winner to claim the prize. The winner must survive until sundown to keep their winnings, all while being tracked by hovering drones that aid the violent mobs.

The stakes are high in Jackpot!

The film’s lead, Katie Kim, played by Awkwafina, is a former child actress trying to break back into the movie business. After winning the lottery, she must navigate the treacherous landscape of California, where half the town is out to get her. Luckily, she’s aided by Noel Cassidy, a pinstripe suit-clad man who offers to protect her for a 10% fee. As they navigate the chaotic world, the tension builds up, and the question remains: can Katie trust Noel?

A Comedic Take on a Dystopian Genre

Feig, known for his work on Bridesmaids and Spy, brings a unique blend of action and comedy to the film. Awkwafina’s sarcasm plays well off John Cena’s nice-guy earnestness, making for an entertaining buddy comedy. However, the film’s high-concept premise often feels like a ridiculous goof, and its predictable machinations grow increasingly tiresome.

Awkwafina and John Cena make an unlikely duo in Jackpot!

Despite its flaws, the film has its moments. Machine Gun Kelly makes a surprisingly perfect tonal fit, and Simu Liu’s appearance as the head of a protection agency adds to the humor. However, the film’s overall impact is diminished by its predictable plot and lack of real stakes.

A Diminished Era for Theatrical Comedies

Jackpot! feels like a product of a bygone era, when studios were more willing to take risks on comedies. Feig’s previous films, such as Bridesmaids and Spy, were staples of the big-screen comedy heyday. However, with the rise of streaming services, the theatrical comedy landscape has changed. Jackpot! feels like a relic of a bygone era, a reminder of what could have been.

The film’s action sequences are a highlight of the movie

In conclusion, Jackpot! is a mildly entertaining, streaming-only comedy that fails to pay off. While it has its moments, the film’s predictable plot and lack of real stakes hold it back. Despite this, Awkwafina’s performance and the film’s satirical take on a dystopian genre make it worth watching.

Rating: 2.5/5 stars

Recommendation: If you’re a fan of Awkwafina or enjoy satirical comedies, Jackpot! might be worth checking out. However, if you’re looking for a more substantial comedy, you might want to look elsewhere.