Despite one aspect that I didn't care for in Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die, that doesn't stop me from absolutely loving this film and highly recommending it. Sam Rockwell is superb in anything he's in, and this is not exception. This one is out now!
“A man claiming to be from the future (Sam Rockwell) recruits an unlikely group of diner patrons to join him on a genre-defying adventure to save humanity from the perils of social media brainrot and the impending AI apocalypse! From Oscar winning director Gore Verbinksi (Pirates of the Caribbean), GOOD LUCK, HAVE FUN, DON’T DIE is a comedic, kinetic, gonzo world-ending adventure like nothing you’ve ever experienced.”
Gore Verbinski’s Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die is a wildly entertaining, quirky sci-fi adventure that delivers exactly the kind of chaotic fun its title promises. Sam Rockwell is an absolute delight as the time-traveling eccentric who convinces a bunch of ordinary strangers to join him on a high-stakes quest to save the world. His performance is perfect, bringing that signature Rockwell charm, manic energy, and sly humor that makes you believe this oddball could actually pull off recruiting random diner patrons for an impossible mission. I genuinely can’t envision anyone else playing the role. He owns every scene with infectious zaniness and conviction.
The cast is superb all around. Haley Lu Richardson, Michael Peña, Zazie Beetz, Juno Temple, and Asim Chaudhry each get fun, memorable storylines that weave together beautifully into the larger picture. The characters feel well rounded and distinct, with their individual arcs feeding directly into the bigger, world-saving picture. There are some genuinely interesting time-travel and Matrix-like elements woven throughout: reality-bending moments, and philosophical touches about free will versus determinism that gives the film a fresh perspective on a couple of overdone sci-fi tropes.
What really sells the film is its playful, gonzo spirit. It’s funny, exciting, and full of heart, balancing wild set pieces with quieter character beats in a way that feels refreshing in today’s blockbuster landscape. That and the overall message of the film is something I think shouldn’t be understated: the harm of social media. While I don’t think we’re at a point yet to worry about AI in the same way, the hold social media has on human civilization is concerning, with nothing good coming from it, and this film plays into that hard. It will definitely make you second-guess yourself next time you sit across the table from someone at dinner with a phone in your hand.
The only real downside is the ending. After such a strong, inventive build-up, the finale doesn’t quite stick the landing. Applying everything you’ve learned throughout the film to the final twists just doesn’t quite make sense on a second pass, which is unfortunate in a movie that sets such high expectations for its climax. While it’s hard to discuss without spoiling anything, as a sci-fi fan I found it conflicting with how the story unfolded.
Video
Universal’s 4K UHD release looks fantastic in 2160p HEVC with Dolby Vision HDR. The vibrant, stylized visuals pop with everything benefiting from excellent contrast, rich colors, and sharp detail. The image has a fun, cinematic energy that enhances the quirky tone.
Audio
Audio comes in immersive Dolby Atmos, delivering a lively, dynamic mix. Dialogue is crisp and centered, while the score, sound design, and wild action sequences fill the surrounds and height channels beautifully. It’s an engaging track that pulls you right into the madness.
Special Features
Despite not listing it on the box, the film does come with a digital code. As for extras, we’re a bit light on this, which is unfortunate given the questions I know I and many others have about the ending.
- The Making of Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die
Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die on 4K is a blast: quirky, funny, and full of heart with Sam Rockwell at his very best. Despite a slightly disappointing landing, the ride is so enjoyable that you’ll want to hop back in for repeat viewings. The one is out now!
AV Entertainment provided us with a copy of this disc for review, which if interested, you can purchase here.
