THE LUCKIEST MAN IN AMERICA
Starring: Paul Walter Hauser, Walton Goggins, David Strathairn, Maisie Williams, Haley Bennett, Shamier Anderson, David Rysdahl, Johnny Knoxville, Brian Geraghty, Patti Harrison, Shaunette Renée Wilson, and James Wolk
Director: Samir Oliveros
NICK
If you're yet to be convinced that Paul Walter Hauser deserves more leading roles, The Luckiest Man in America is here to change your mind. This throwback true story of Michael Larson (Hauser) and the Press Your Luck scandal peeks behind the curtain of the events to keep the uninitiated wondering what will happen next. Director Samir Oliveros transports you back to the 80s with a tight story and vibrant colour palette that makes you feel like you are in the studio audience. No bells and whistles, just an honest approach to the story, which is precisely what Luckiest Man calls for.
ADRIANO
The Luckiest Man in America is probably the best version of what a movie adaptation of this story could look like. The story of Michael Larson (Paul Walter Hauser) isn't anything that grand, and I kinda thought the movie's attempts to make him out to be some folk hero were a little misguided; however, I still had fun. Hauser gives yet another great, ego-less performance that's easy to root for, and I enjoyed the kinetic editing. The writing is serviceable enough too, with some effective laughs and heart thrown in there. The overall experience was pleasant but forgettable.
PAIGE
Based on a true event, The Luckiest Man in America is a stylish flick that vividly captures the aesthetic of a 1980s game show. Its sleek and breezy runtime is bolstered by a great supporting cast and, of course, another outstanding and underrated performance from Paul Walter Hauser. Despite this, the film is a bit restrained due to its story not diving deep enough into its characters or ideas. In the end, it may not stick the landing, but it’s at least an entertaining watch that puts you on the set to watch these stakes unfold.
KATIE
The Luckiest Man in America is a solidly entertaining and stylish drama based on the true story of a 1980s game show scandal. Paul Walter Hauser is fantastic in the leading role as Michael Larson, bringing an uncomfortable intensity that is simultaneously disarming and unnerving. Considering it's based on real life, the film does well at generating suspense, intrigue, and exploring Larson’s motivations, enhanced by the brisk pacing and energetic editing, and the TV studio setting and tight camerawork add an element of claustrophobic tension. It’s not groundbreaking, but The Luckiest Man in America is a fun watch.
This film was reviewed by Nick and Adriano as part of Bitesize Breakdown's coverage of the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival.