Lucky Day

Lucky Day, released in 2019, is a high-octane dark comedy directed by Roger Avary. The film promises a reckoning full of wit, frenzied action, and unpredictable encounters. Bringing together a talented ensemble of actors including Luke Bracey, Nina Dobrev, and Crispin Glover, Lucky Day provides a wild and riveting journey through the world of crime, revenge, and survival. Set in an urban, modern landscape, the narrative explores redemption, hope, and the chaos inherent in the unpredictability of life.

At the heart of the story, Luke Bracey portrays Red, a safe-cracker who has recently been released from prison. Red is keen on leaving his criminal past behind and starting a new, peaceful life with his wife, Chloe, played by Nina Dobrev, and their daughter. However, freedom outside the prison walls holds trials and tribulations Red could never have anticipated as he finds his longing for a quiet life imploding around him.

Nina Dobrev’s character, Chloe, is a sensual, fiercely independent, and passionate artist who lights the screen on fire with her raw energy and resilience. She longs for her life with Red to return to normalcy for their daughter's sake. She is depicted as a loving mother and dedicated wife, eager to help her husband reconcile with life after prison. Dobrev flawlessly portrays the internal struggle of a woman caught between her love for her husband and the safe upbringing of her child.

Crispin Glover plays the role of Luc, a psychopathic contract killer who is as relentless as he is unhinged. Luc is given terrifying life by Glover's electrifying performance, epitomizing a ruthless and persistent villain. Luc arrives with the single mission of seeking revenge on Red for the death of his brother, leading to a gripping chase that forms the film's backbone. He is characterized by his cool demeanor, dark humor, and menacing presence, creating a memorable antagonist.

The storyline forces Red into a game of cat and mouse with Luc, drawing him back into the criminal underworld he had hoped to leave behind. As he grapples with his newfound freedom, the emergence of Luc complicates matters further, resulting in a life-or-death struggle he needs to navigate for his survival and that of his family.

In Lucky Day, Roger Avary brilliantly unearths the disparities between hope and reality. The title of the film belies the numerous unlucky encounters faced by the characters, as they meander through a life filled with danger at every turn. The film employs classic Avary storytelling techniques, including pulse-pounding action, dark humor, and innovative visual storytelling.

The atmosphere of Lucky Day is saturated with a grungy aesthetic that heightens the sense of chaos and danger. From high-speed chases to high-stake face-offs, the tension and action are beautifully punctuated by cinematographer, Brendan Steacy’s, deft handling of the camera.

The film’s setting of urban decay and suburban isolation acts as the perfect backdrop to the film’s thrilling narrative. The sharp contrasts between the characters' ordinary desires for family and peace, with the pervasive threat of violence, highlight the stark reality of life after crime.

The soundtrack adds another layer of texture to the film with an eclectic mix of styles. It pulsates with energy during the high octane sequences and becomes introspective during the quiet moments of reflection.

In a nutshell, Lucky Day is a suspenseful ride teeming with action, humor, and pathos. It's a thrilling rollercoaster unflinching in its portrayal of the hardships of moving on from the past, the relentless pursuit of revenge, and the human desire to protect loved ones. Brilliant performances by the lead actors, a tight plot, and marvelous technical work all culminate in a complete cinematic experience that will be worth your while.