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Calling all lottery dreamers! Get ready for a hilarious and action-packed twist on your favorite pastime.
Jackpot!, the new film from director Paul Feig (Bridesmaids, The Heat), arrives on Prime Video on August 15.
This action-comedy stars Awkwafina (Crazy Rich Asians) and John Cena (Peacemaker) in a story that flips the script on winning the lottery.
California dreamin' with a twist
The year is 2030. Katie, an aspiring actress played by Awkwafina, stumbles upon a life-changing twist of fate - she wins the California Grand Lottery! Ecstatic but clueless, Katie doesn't realize the dark secret behind this seemingly lucky break.
In this bizarre future, the Golden State has legalized a murderous twist on the lottery. Anyone holding a losing ticket has until sundown to eliminate the winner and claim the jackpot for themselves. Talk about a high-stakes game!
An unlikely alliance
Suddenly, on the run for her life, Katie needs protection. Enter Noel Cassidy (John Cena), an amateur lottery protection agent with a heart (of gold, we hope) and a cut of the prize money as motivation.
The trailer hints at an entertaining dynamic between the two. Awkwafina delivers her signature comedic timing, while Cena plays the straight man with a hint of absurdity.
A star-studded cast and a delicious sweepstakes
Simu Liu (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings) joins the cast as Noel's rival, adding another layer to the comedic chaos.
To celebrate the film's release, there's a sweepstakes offering a truly unique prize: a decade's worth of Buffalo Wild Wings! (Don't worry; it's in the form of gift cards!).
While only one lucky person can win the real jackpot, everyone can enjoy the wild ride that is Jackpot!. Mark your calendars for August 15, and get ready for a hilarious and action-packed adventure on Prime Video.
A social commentary disguised as action-comedy?
Jackpot! isn't just about laughs and explosions (although, based on the trailer, there will likely be plenty of both). The film's wacky premise also raises some interesting social questions. In this dystopian California, where winning the lottery turns you into hunted prey, the movie seems to be making a statement about societal values.
Is this a world where desperation and greed have taken hold? Does the concept of a legal "open season" on lottery winners highlight a decline in empathy?
Jackpot! might offer more than just entertainment; it could spark conversations about the choices we make and the lengths people might go to in a world obsessed with wealth.
Lottery in pop culture
The lottery's allure isn't just for the silver screen. It's also a popular trope on television. Shows like The Syndicate and My Lottery Dream Home explore the dramatic and life-changing possibilities of a big win. If you're looking for more lottery-fueled entertainment while you wait for Jackpot!, you can read our previous article in which we dive into some of the best lottery moments in TV history!
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