In Aziz Ansari’s directorial debut Good Fortune, released in October 2025, Keanu Reeves takes on a delightful and unexpected role as Gabriel, a well-meaning but clumsy guardian angel. The supernatural comedy follows Gabriel as he intervenes in the life of a struggling gig worker named Arj (played by Ansari himself), swapping his life with a wealthy venture capitalist, Jeff (Seth Rogen), to prove that money can’t solve all problems. Co-starring Keke Palmer and Sandra Oh, the film blends humor with social commentary on wealth inequality, gig economy struggles, and the simple joys of life.

Reeves shines as the inept angel, bringing a childlike innocence and subtle comedy reminiscent of his early roles in films like Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure. His Gabriel starts with minor duties—like preventing texting-while-driving accidents—before overstepping by orchestrating the life swap. When the plan backfires, Gabriel loses his wings and must navigate human experiences for the first time: tasting hamburgers, dancing, and discovering street tacos. Critics have praised Reeves’ performance for anchoring the film’s heart, with his wide-eyed wonder and quiet warmth stealing scenes. The movie earned a solid 78% on Rotten Tomatoes, with many highlighting how Reeves’ “heavenly comedic timing” elevates the socially minded script.

However, behind-the-scenes troubles raised concerns about Reeves’ involvement. During filming, which began in 2023 and resumed after delays from industry strikes, Reeves suffered a serious injury just 15 days into principal photography. He fractured his kneecap after tripping on a rug in his trailer—a seemingly minor accident that halted production. Ansari and the team insisted on pausing until Reeves fully recovered, prioritizing his health over rushing scenes. Reeves, known for his dedication, reportedly wanted to push through, but safety protocols prevailed.

This injury led to reshoots and pickups later in 2024, potentially limiting some of Reeves’ planned sequences. While the final cut features him prominently in key comedic moments, fans initially worried the setback might reduce his screen time significantly, especially in physical or action-oriented angel scenes involving wings and interventions. Fortunately, the film wrapped successfully, and Reeves’ role remains central, driving much of the emotional and humorous arc.

Good Fortune explores timely themes like economic disparity in Los Angeles, where gig workers scrape by while the ultra-rich thrive. Gabriel’s misguided intervention highlights how wealth can solve many practical issues, challenging the classic “money can’t buy happiness” trope in a nuanced way. Despite a modest box office run—grossing around $25 million worldwide against a $30 million budget—the movie has found appreciation for its heartfelt message and strong ensemble.

Reeves’ return to comedy after years dominating action with John Wick reminds audiences of his versatile charm. From discovering “chicken nuggies” to grappling with humanity’s flaws, his Gabriel embodies kindness in a chaotic world. Though the injury caused a major production hurdle, it didn’t derail the film’s spirit. Good Fortune proves that even angels—and Hollywood stars—face unexpected bumps, but perseverance (and a great cast) can turn misfortune into something rewarding.