Jackpot! premieres on Prime Video Thursday, August 15.
For numerous individuals, hitting the jackpot in the lottery is a dream beyond compare. However, this scenario also comes with a plethora of terrifying possibilities that have captured the attention of artists across various mediums. One such artist is Bridesmaids director, Paul Feig, who introduces his unique take on a grand prize in the near-future Los Angeles in Jackpot! Winners of the city’s Grand Lottery must survive until sundown to claim their fortune, as anyone can seize their money by eliminating them.
The dystopian setting in Jackpot! closely resembles the dark realities often depicted in Black Mirror, but Feig and writer Rob Yescombe opt for a comedic approach. The exaggerated wealth gap in Los Angeles, showcased by the affluent stepping over homeless individuals while Weezer’s “Beverly Hills” plays in the background, creates a whimsical backdrop for the narrative. However, the execution falls short of fully exploring the absurdity of legalized, profit-driven murder or delving into the eccentric personalities introduced in the story beyond surface-level humor.
While the concept of Jackpot! promises entertainment, the film struggles to find a cohesive identity, wavering between comedy, drama, and action. Feig’s endeavor to blend these genres results in a disjointed experience, lacking a definitive focus. The action sequences, although sporadically engaging, often feel watered down, with minimal attention to detail in choreography and staging.
One of Jackpot!’s saving graces lies in its supporting cast, particularly actors like Seann William Scott, Dolly de Leon, and Murray Hill, who infuse freshness into their brief appearances. Ayden Mayeri shines in her role as a fellow aspiring actress, delivering sharp retorts and physical comedy with finesse. However, standout performances are overshadowed by unnecessary cameos and underutilized talent, leaving viewers yearning for more.
Despite its initial promise and well-written humor, Jackpot! falls short of achieving greatness. The film struggles to capitalize on its potential, ultimately settling for mediocrity. While it opens with a thrilling action sequence and witty humor, it fails to maintain the momentum, missing the mark on delivering a truly compelling narrative.