Aziz Ansari’s latest venture, Good Fortune, is a bold reimagining of the classic It’s a Wonderful Life—but with a darker, more modern twist. Here’s the kicker: What if swapping lives with someone wealthier doesn’t solve all your problems? Ansari, known for his roles in Parks & Recreation and the Emmy-winning Master of None, steps into the director’s chair for the first time, delivering a dramedy that’s equal parts thought-provoking and entertaining. In the film, Ansari plays Arj, a struggling Angeleno whose life takes a surreal turn when he trades places with his wealthy boss Jeff (Seth Rogen), thanks to the meddling of a charmingly naive angel named Gabriel (Keanu Reeves). But here’s where it gets controversial: the divine switcheroo seems to fix Arj’s troubles—until it doesn’t. Is wealth truly the answer to happiness? Or is there more to life than meets the eye? And this is the part most people miss: the film’s exploration of privilege, contentment, and the human condition has sparked debates among critics and audiences alike.
Despite a lukewarm box office performance—grossing just $15.8 million against a $30 million budget—Good Fortune has earned critical acclaim, with Keanu Reeves’ performance as Gabriel stealing the spotlight. If you missed it in theaters, here’s the good news: you can soon watch Ansari’s directorial debut from the comfort of your couch. Starting November 7, 2025, the film will be available to rent or buy on major PVOD platforms like Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home for $19.99 and $24.99, respectively. Physical media fans, however, will need to wait until December 9, 2025, to get their hands on the 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, or DVD versions—though be warned, these come with a premium price tag. The Blu-ray will set you back $39.99, the DVD $29.99, and the 4K combo pack from Amazon will cost $34.99. But here’s the real head-scratcher: the special features are scattered across platforms, with exclusives like the Task Sergeant Ride-Along featurette on Fandango and Do You Want to Dance? on Apple TV. Why not just bundle them all together? It’s a missed opportunity that leaves fans piecing together the full experience.
For beginners, here’s a breakdown: PVOD (Premium Video on Demand) lets you stream or download the film instantly, while physical media offers a tangible collection—though at a steeper cost. The special features, including an audio commentary by Ansari and producer Alan Yang, provide deeper insights into the film’s making. But the question remains: Is Good Fortune worth the investment? Critics say yes, but the box office numbers tell a different story. What do you think? Is this a must-watch, or just another missed opportunity? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take on this modern twist on a timeless tale.
