The world of cinema is buzzing with excitement as Lionsgate unveils the latest trailer for Good Fortune, a comedy that promises to deliver laughs, heart, and a fresh take on Keanu Reeves’ iconic screen presence. Known for his action-packed roles in John Wick and The Matrix, Reeves steps into uncharted territory as Gabriel, a well-meaning but hilariously inept guardian angel. Directed by Aziz Ansari in his feature film directorial debut, Good Fortune is poised to be one of 2025’s most anticipated comedies, blending existential humor with a stellar ensemble cast. The trailer, which dropped recently, has sparked intrigue, revealing not only Reeves’ surprising transformation but also a fulfillment of a mysterious promise made by Ansari to the Hollywood star during filming.
Good Fortune centers on Gabriel, a self-described “budget guardian angel” who typically handles minor divine interventions, like preventing distracted drivers from crashing. Tired of his low-stakes assignments, Gabriel seizes an opportunity to make a bigger impact by meddling in the lives of two contrasting characters: Arj, a struggling gig worker played by Ansari himself, and Jeff, a wealthy venture capitalist portrayed by Seth Rogen. In a whimsical twist, Gabriel swaps their lives, hoping to teach Arj that money doesn’t solve everything. However, the plan backfires spectacularly when Arj discovers that wealth might just be the answer to his problems, leading to a cascade of comedic chaos.
What makes this film stand out is its ability to weave modern societal themes—class disparity, the gig economy, and the pursuit of happiness—into a fantastical narrative. Reeves’ Gabriel is not the ethereal, all-knowing angel one might expect. Instead, he’s a flawed, endearing figure, complete with tiny wings and a penchant for making mistakes. The trailer showcases Reeves in a way fans have rarely seen: sporting a disheveled look, puffing on a cigarette, and grappling with his divine duties. This departure from his usual stoic, action-hero persona highlights his versatility and comedic chops, which have previously shone in films like Always Be My Maybe and Toy Story 4.
The promise Ansari made to Reeves during production remains a tantalizing mystery, though hints suggest it involved giving the actor creative freedom to shape Gabriel’s character. Sources close to the set indicate that Ansari encouraged Reeves to lean into the absurdity of the role, allowing him to improvise and inject his own charm into the angel’s bumbling antics. The result is a performance that feels both authentic and delightfully unexpected, with Reeves balancing humor and heart in a way that anchors the film’s fantastical premise.
Joining Reeves, Ansari, and Rogen is a powerhouse cast that includes Keke Palmer as Elena, a character who brings emotional depth to the story, and Sandra Oh as Martha, Gabriel’s fellow angel who offers guidance with a sharp wit. The ensemble is rounded out by talents like Sherry Cola and Stephen McKinley Henderson, ensuring a dynamic mix of humor and humanity. The trailer teases their chemistry, with scenes of Palmer’s Elena navigating the fallout of Gabriel’s meddling and Oh’s Martha delivering deadpan advice to her angelic colleague.
Ansari, known for his work on Parks and Recreation and Master of None, brings his signature blend of sharp comedy and poignant storytelling to Good Fortune. His directorial debut is a bold step, following the suspension of his previous project, Being Mortal, due to unrelated controversies. With Good Fortune, Ansari has crafted a film that feels personal yet universally relatable, exploring themes of second chances and self-discovery through a comedic lens. The film’s production, backed by Lionsgate and a talented creative team including cinematographer Adam Newport-Berra and composer Carter Burwell, promises a polished yet playful aesthetic.
The trailer’s release has ignited excitement, particularly due to its premiere at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival in September, ahead of its theatrical debut on October 17, 2025. Fans are already praising the film’s fresh take on the body-swap trope, with Gabriel’s divine intervention adding a fantastical twist to a familiar concept. The humor is grounded in real-world frustrations—Arj’s struggles as a gig worker resonate with anyone navigating today’s economy, while Jeff’s oblivious privilege offers a satirical jab at wealth inequality. Yet, the film never feels preachy, balancing its social commentary with laugh-out-loud moments and heartfelt revelations.
Reeves’ involvement is a major draw, especially given his recent forays into comedy and his enduring status as a Hollywood icon. His upcoming slate, including John Wick: Chapter 5 and a romantic thriller with Sandra Bullock, underscores his versatility, but Good Fortune feels like a passion project that allows him to let loose. The trailer hints at a scene where Gabriel, frustrated by his failed plan, questions his own abilities, adding a layer of vulnerability to the character that fans are eager to see.
As the release date approaches, Good Fortune is shaping up to be a crowd-pleaser that combines star power, sharp writing, and a touch of magic. Whether you’re a fan of Reeves’ action heroics or Ansari’s introspective comedy, this film promises something for everyone. It’s a story about finding meaning in unexpected places, delivered with a heavenly dose of humor and heart. Mark your calendars for October 17, 2025, when Good Fortune lands in theaters, ready to make audiences laugh, reflect, and believe in the power of second chances.
