Jackpot! Review: Paul Feig’s Weak Action Comedy Overflows with Mayhem

Awkwafina and John Cena team up in a high-concept action comedy set in a near-future Los Angeles. The movie, titled Jackpot!, keeps up a relentless pace reminiscent of the wild ride that was Jason Statham’s Crank. Awkwafina brings her signature humor to the role of Katie Kim, a former actor who has just returned to a significantly changed LA. The city now hosts a grand lottery that promises untold riches to its winner, unless someone kills them before sundown, in which case the murderer legally claims the money. Katie wins the largest jackpot ever thanks to a twist of fate and a borrowed shellsuit.

John Cena plays a muscle-bound, good-hearted character who offers to protect Katie after her unexpected win. Directed by Paul Feig, known for hit comedies like Bridesmaids and The Heat, one would expect the film to be a riotous blend of chaos and humor. However, despite the cast’s energetic performances, the screenplay feels weak and repetitive, struggling to expand beyond its singular premise.

The frenetic energy and dynamic interactions between Awkwafina and Cena are highlights, but even their charisma can’t entirely save the movie from its flawed script. Awkwafina’s quick wit and Cena’s charming, tough-guy persona provide some entertaining moments, yet the story’s reliance on a single idea becomes more of a crutch than a launchpad for creative storytelling.

The plot’s concept of a high-stakes lottery contributing to lawless mayhem in a futuristic LA holds promise, yet the execution falls short. Instead of a complex narrative, viewers get a series of chaotic and often predictable events. The film tries hard to be a brash and exuberant spectacle, but the lack of depth in the screenplay becomes evident as the movie progresses.

Feig’s direction ensures that the film has visual flair and plenty of action sequences, but these elements are not enough to compensate for the underdeveloped plot. The movie’s energy is sustained by the constant action and comedic attempts, yet a feeling of missed potential lingers.

While Jackpot! aims to offer a blend of action and comedy, it ends up being somewhat shallow. The setting of a near-future LA and the concept of a deadly lottery add interesting layers, but these aspects are not adequately explored. Instead, the film leans heavily on its star power and fast-paced action to keep the audience engaged.

In conclusion, Jackpot! is a film with an interesting premise and a talented cast. Awkwafina and John Cena’s performances bring life to their roles, offering a mix of humor and action. However, the movie’s weak screenplay and reliance on a single narrative idea ultimately hinder its potential, making it an amusing but flawed cinematic experience. For those seeking a fun, action-packed watch, Jackpot! might just hit the spot, but it’s unlikely to leave a lasting impression.

Source: The Guardian