[Fantastic Fest 2023 Review] YOUR LUCKY DAY

YOUR LUCKY DAY is a riveting thriller that grabs your attention right from the start and doesn’t let go until the very end. The story unfolds in a cozy convenience store during the festive Christmas season, with a mind-boggling $156 million lottery ticket taking center stage. What follows is a white-knuckle, chaotic battle royale among six individuals, each willing to traverse the darkest depths to claim this life-altering windfall. YOUR LUCKY DAY delves deep into the thought-provoking questions about the lengths people are willing to go to for financial gain.

At first glance, the plot of YOUR LUCKY DAY may seem straightforward, but the characters and their portrayals really help this movie surpass other action films. Sterling’s (Angus Cloud) scheme to strike it rich is nothing short of reckless. Picture this: he’s among the few lucky eavesdroppers in a bustling Miami convenience store, just two days shy of Christmas, as a brash, bigoted tycoon makes a shocking revelation. Brace yourselves, folks, because this mogul’s holding a golden ticket!

But that’s not all. the scene is set with an ensemble cast that includes Amir (Mousa Hussein Kraish), the store’s owner, Abraham (Elliot Knight), a frustrated musician moonlighting as a Nordstrom pianist, and his expecting girlfriend, Ana-Marlene (Jessica Garza). And wait for it, a pivotal character enters the fray – a fresh-faced cop named Cody (Sterling Beaumon). The stage is set for a night of chaos and adrenaline!

The central character, Sterling, brilliantly portrayed by Angus Cloud, epitomizes the idea that in America, the pursuit of riches often eclipses all other values. Sterling’s plan to claim the lottery ticket may be impulsive and short-sighted, but it sets the stage for a gripping showdown. Cloud’s performance as the sensitive stickup kid with dreams of wealth is a standout. His charisma and presence make you believe that people would confide in him, even if he was holding them at gunpoint.

What sets YOUR LUCKY DAY apart is its fresh take on a familiar theme. While the concept of ordinary individuals turning ruthless in the face of unimaginable wealth is not new, this film injects it with a contemporary perspective. The characters’ descent into greed feels convincing, and it’s a theme explored with nuance and depth, thanks in large part to Angus Cloud’s compelling portrayal.

Cloud’s role as Sterling in YOUR LUCKY DAY stands as a testament to his talent, which makes it all the more bittersweet as it marks one of his final performances before his tragic passing in July 2023. His dedication to the character adds a poignant layer to the film, making it an emotional and memorable viewing experience.

Beyond the captivating performances, YOUR LUCKY DAY also serves as a social commentary on the power of money in today’s society. It challenges viewers to reflect on what they would do if given the chance to become instant millionaires. The moral dilemmas faced by the characters and the unexpected plot twists create a riveting cinematic journey. Additionally, the film’s moments of violence, portrayed with raw and brutal realism, intensify the narrative without ever feeling gratuitous, underscoring the desperation and ruthlessness of the characters.

Of course, like any film, YOUR LUCKY DAY has its minor shortcomings, including occasional screenplay hiccups and awkward moments that momentarily disrupt the flow. However, these imperfections are eclipsed by the film’s ability to keep the audience engaged and guessing until the very end. Be prepared for surprises that may elicit audible gasps from a crowded theater.

YOUR LUCKY DAY maximizes its budget by setting most of the action within the confines of the convenience store, which creates a claustrophobic atmosphere. The tension escalates rapidly as the store becomes a battleground for a $156 million winning ticket and soon every moment counts. It’s a thought-provoking and pulse-pounding ride that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

YOUR LUCKY DAY is a gripping thriller that holds a mirror to society’s obsession with wealth and the lengths some are willing to go to achieve it. While it may not be a flawless film, it’s a promising debut for the director, and it serves as a fitting tribute to Angus Cloud’s talent and potential. As the credits roll, you’ll be left with one burning question – how far would you go for financial freedom?

Premiering at Fantastic Festival 2023, this film, directed and written by Dan Brown, marking his feature film debut, is set to hit theaters on November 10, 2023, and on VOD on November 14, 2023.