Aziz Ansari’s “Good Fortune“ Debuts to Mixed Reviews at TIFF
Toronto - aziz Ansari’s directorial debut, “Good Fortune,” premiered at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival, sparking debate among critics who found the film funny but ultimately lacking in depth. The comedy-drama, which ansari also wrote and stars in, centers on a struggling pair of brothers navigating the precarious world of gig work and artistic ambition in New york City.
While the film’s humor and relatable depiction of economic hardship resonated with some, others criticized “Good Fortune” for its perceived superficiality and a concluding message that felt disconnected from the realities it portrays. The film arrives as anxieties surrounding the gig economy and the financial precarity faced by many workers continue to grow, making its exploration of these themes especially timely. Lionsgate will release “Good Fortune” in theaters on Friday, October 17.
The narrative follows the brothers as they attempt to supplement their income with a series of odd jobs while pursuing their creative passions. The review published by IndieWire noted the film spends considerable time illustrating the difficulties faced by workers, then suggests art-making as a solution, leaving the reviewer “skeptical and uneasy.”
“‘Good Fortune’ left me skeptical and uneasy, wondering weather the people it depicts with such lightheartedness will only feel objectified instead,” the indiewire review stated. For those with firsthand experience living on the edge,the film reportedly felt ”more hollow than empathetic.”
“Good Fortune” received a Grade: C+ from IndieWire. Readers interested in staying current with IndieWire’s film reviews can subscribe to the newly launched newsletter, In Review by David Ehrlich, available at https://cloud.email.indiewire.com/newsletters.
