They say money can’t buy happiness, but in French cinema this year, it can definitely buy a plotline. With Lucky Winners joining the growing list of 2025 French films exploring lottery wins and losses, one has to wonder… what’s going on, France?
Did the entire film industry pool their tickets and decide to cash in on the same idea?
Directed by Maxime Govare, Lucky Winners is a light hearted comedy that leans into feel-good storytelling, even if it occasionally treads familiar ground. The film follows four down on their luck friends who unexpectedly win the lottery, only to find that their newfound fortune brings more chaos than joy.
At its heart, Lucky Winners is a classic buddy comedy infused with the charm of French cinema. The leads, played with effortless chemistry by Pauline Clément, Audrey Lamy, and Anouk Grinberg, bring a relatable energy to their roles, portraying everyday people thrust into extraordinary circumstances.
Their journey from struggling to make ends meet to navigating the absurdities of wealth is filled with witty dialogue, physical humour, and plenty of mishaps that keep the film moving at a brisk pace.
While the premise isn’t groundbreaking, the film succeeds in delivering a fun and engaging ride. The screenplay balances comedy with heartfelt moments, exploring how sudden wealth can strain relationships and expose true character.
If there’s a downside, it’s that the film follows a fairly predictable trajectory. The “money can’t buy happiness” message is clear from the start, and the story doesn’t offer many surprises. Almost as similar as all our Jennifer Lopez Rom Coms. Are there any new character differences? Fresh plot twists? Not really.
Maybe I’m just bitter because I haven’t won the lottery yet and French Cinema seems to be rubbing it in my face.
In summary: some strong performances, sharp comedic timing, and a genuine sense of fun make it an entertaining watch.
For fans of light-hearted European comedies, Lucky Winners is an enjoyable escape: a film that, while not reinventing the genre, delivers exactly what it promises: a feel good, laughter filled experience
Lucky Winners is showing as part of the Alliance Française French Film Festival. Sessions run until 15th April.