Aziz Ansari's Directorial Debut Good Fortune Premieres TIFF Starring Keanu Reeves

Aziz Ansari makes his directorial debut with the comedy-drama Good Fortune, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and will release in theaters on October 17. The film explores themes of economic inequality and the gig economy through the story of Arj, a struggling gig worker played by Ansari, whose fortunes change when he starts working for a wealthy venture capitalist, played by Seth Rogen. Keanu Reeves stars as Gabriel, a well-meaning but inept angel who watches over Arj and wishes to have a more meaningful impact beyond preventing texting-and-driving accidents. Ansari, a longtime fan of Reeves, described working with the usually private actor as a surreal and rewarding experience, praising Reeves' enthusiasm for comedy despite his action-film background. Reeves himself revealed he suffered a serious on-set knee injury during filming but remained committed to completing the project. The film also features Sandra Oh and Keke Palmer and blends satirical elements with earnest messaging about hope, friendship, and resilience in challenging economic times.