What if a Hollywood comedy could embody the adrenaline rush of a video game? Paul Feig's "Jackpot!" does just that. Featuring a relentless string of hilarious and thrilling action sequences, the movie shines with Awkwafina's comedic prowess and John Cena’s impressive turn from WWE star to America's most lovable action-hero.
In "Jackpot!", Awkwafina plays a former child actor who returns to Los Angeles only to unwittingly become the winner of a deadly city-wide lottery game. The stakes? Billions dollars that anyone can claim by taking her out. However, firearms are forbidden. Her escapades are made even more tumultuous by her instant popularity, putting everyone on her trail, including competing actresses and martial arts enthusiasts.
Just when her situation seems dire, she finds an unlikely ally in John Cena's character Noel, a freelance operator who, despite taking down attackers with ease, comes with a sensitive and genuinely caring side. Their dynamic, consisting of high-pressure negotiations, witty banter, and intense combat, adds to the enjoyment of the film.
The movie plays like a cartoon come to life, with non-stop chase sequences, unexpected enemies, and a hasty alliance with Noel's professional archenemy. Despite its repetitive and exhausting nature towards the end, "Jackpot!" manages to hold up due to its unique premise, humorous dialogues, and a self-deprecating cameo from rapper-actor Machine Gun Kelly.
"Jackpot!" is relentless fun that combines video game-like thrill with comedic elements for a memorable cinema experience, all while embracing the hilarious chaos that unfolds when you least expect it.
