‘Lucky’ Review: Anya Taylor-Joy Keeps Apple TV’s Thriller Series Going on a Whirlwind Ride

Anya Taylor-Joy stars in Apple TV’s limited series, ‘Lucky,’ which premiered on the streaming service this week, as she takes on the titular role of Luciana ‘Lucky’ Armstrong, a con artist trained by her father to evade authorities and live on the run.

The series, created by Jonathan Tropper, is based on Marissa Stapley’s bestselling 2021 novel of the same name, which was a Reese's Book Club pick. Taylor-Joy is also an executive producer, along with Reese Witherspoon through her production company, Hello Sunshine.

Throughout the series, Taylor-Joy brings her A-game, showcasing her character, Lucky, as a likable survivor who is constantly on the move, always one step ahead of the law and the underworld. She spends much of the show on the run, often finding herself in high-stakes situations that keep viewers engaged and guessing. The character of Lucky is well-developed, with a backstory that adds depth to her actions and motivations.

One of the strengths of the series is its cast, which includes a talented ensemble of actors. Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Clifton Collins Jr., and Annette Bening deliver standout performances, adding to the show’s momentum and tension. The dynamic between Lucky and her fellow characters is well-played, creating a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose that propels the plot forward.

However, as the series progresses, it loses some of its initial momentum, and the writing becomes more formulaic and predictable. The characters’ actions and decisions, particularly in the final episodes, become less convincing, and the plot twists that were once surprising start to feel contrived. Despite its flaws, ‘Lucky’ remains entertaining, thanks in large part to Taylor-Joy’s performance and the engaging cast.

Jonathan Tropper, the creator of the series, has a knack for crafting relatable, complex characters who are easy to root for despite their flaws. As seen in his previous work, such as ‘Your Friends & Neighbors’ and ‘Banshee,’ Tropper has a talent for blending humor and suspense, making ‘Lucky’ a compelling watch.

With its blend of action, suspense, and drama, ‘Lucky’ is a thrilling ride that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. While it may not be perfect, the series remains engaging, thanks to its talented cast and the electrifying performance of Anya Taylor-Joy. If you’re looking for a show that will keep you guessing and on the move with its protagonist, then ‘Lucky’ is worth checking out.

In the end, ‘Lucky’ is a show that will leave you with more questions than answers. As Taylor-Joy’s character navigates the complexities of her life as a con artist, the show raises questions about loyalty, family, and the true meaning of survival. While it may not provide all the answers, ‘Lucky’ is a wild ride that is sure to keep you entertained until the very end.