Some viewers believe that critiques of films should focus solely on the actual content rather than hypothetical scenarios, preferring clear assessments of whether a movie is great or terrible. However, the film industry often presents more nuanced offerings. “Jackpot,” now available on Prime Video, exists in this ambiguous realm, with a mix of humor and disappointment. Starring Awkwafina and John Cena, the film features their enjoyable on-screen chemistry and adeptness at balancing varied emotional responses.
Set in a slightly dystopian 2030 Los Angeles, “Jackpot” follows a changed but recognizable city where the economy is struggling and the state lottery has introduced a risky new rule. In a bid to boost revenue, those who win must survive 24 hours while other desperate individuals can legally attempt to kill them to claim their winnings. Awkwafina plays Katie, a cynical former child star trying to navigate adulthood, while Cena portrays Noel, a timid protection agent for lottery winners who earns a cut of their cash if he keeps them alive.
The film unfolds as a series of chaotic encounters, starting with Katie and Noel battling aggressive lottery-seekers during a martial arts and yoga class. The narrative includes amusing details, such as a future film title parody, and establishes Katie’s backstory effectively during her interactions on public transport.
Despite these engaging moments, “Jackpot” has its shortcomings. Screenwriter Rob Yescombe’s background in video game narratives is evident, as the film sometimes feels repetitive. Director Paul Feig’s experience with successful comedies is apparent, but the film often prioritizes action over humor, making it challenging to blend the two effectively. The absurdities in the plot, especially regarding Katie’s ignorance of the new lottery rules, further detract from the story’s credibility.
Filmed primarily in Atlanta, which doesn’t resemble Los Angeles, “Jackpot” still benefits from the unique dynamic between its leads. A standout line from Ayden Mayeri underscores the film’s wit, showcasing the potential for humor amid the chaos.
“Jackpot” is rated R for language, violence, and sexual references, with a runtime of 1 hour and 46 minutes. It is currently streaming on Prime Video.
Rating: 2.5 out of 4 stars.