Anya Taylor-Joy is set to ignite screens with her sizzling performance in Apple TV+’s latest crime thriller, 'Lucky', where she embodies the free-spirited and fearless Luciana Armstrong – a con artist on the run across America. The high-stakes series, based on Marissa Stapley’s bestseller, drops viewers into a heart-pumping cat-and-mouse chase filled with daring escapes, hair-raising heists, and a relentless pursuit by both the FBI and a ruthless crime boss.
The action-packed narrative kicks off in Sin City, Las Vegas, where Lucky finds herself abandoned by her partner-in-crime boyfriend Cary (Drew Starkey) – with their multi-million-pound loot vanished. Penniless and on-the-run, Lucky embarks on a non-stop cross-country dash for survival, receiving dubious guidance from her incarcerated father John (Timothy Olyphant), whose questionable advice often puts her in deeper trouble. The series unfolds as a thrilling game of cat-and-mouse, with Lucky outwitting authorities and henchmen alike with a mix of cunning and pure luck.
Joining the star-studded cast are Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor as the world-weary Agent Rand and Annette Bening as Priscilla, Cary’s formidable mob leader mother – both delivering standout performances. Their relentless pursuit of Lucky adds new layers to the fast-paced plot, which sees our protagonist pulling off daring scams, escaping exploding vehicles, and even setting fire to a goon's cowboy boots in a series of pulse-pounding set pieces.
While 'Lucky' unapologetically leans into its over-the-top premise, critics argue that it falters in fully committing to either its fantastical elements or its attempts to delve deeper into themes like victimhood and societal condemnation of women. This tonal inconsistency is compounded by a script that sometimes stumbles, making for an uneven viewing experience. The theme tune, performed by Fiona Apple, has also drawn mixed reactions.
Despite these criticisms, 'Lucky' is being championed as the perfect summer spectacle – providing a guilt-free, high-octane distraction from the heat. Viewers are urged to appreciate the outstanding performances from Ellis-Taylor and Bening, as well as Taylor-Joy's stylish portrayal of Lucky, making it an acceptable indulgence for those seeking lighthearted entertainment.