One of my most anticipated movies of 2025 delivers. “The Luckiest Man in America” recreates and dramatizes Michael Larson’s unique, epic victory on popular ’80s game show “Press Your Luck”. Paul Walter Hauser does a terrific job as the infamous contestant who was so obsessed with the program that he memorized the patterns of that iconic board, setting him on a path like no one else before. Was that, technically, cheating? That’s just one of many topics addressed in a script that definitely adds some elements in order to get the runtime to 90-minutes (it drifts just a bit in the back half), but also beautifully dissects this legendary TV event and what game shows have meant to so many people.
Co-writer and director Samir Oliveros assembled a heck of a cast, including David Strathairn, who’s quite good as “PYL” creator Bill Carruthers. Patti Harrison, Maisie Williams, Shamier Anderson, Hayley Bennett (who has a showcase final scene) and Johnny Knoxville take-on pivotal roles. So does Walton Goggins, who nails “PYL” host Peter Tomarken’s energy (sometimes a little ‘dirty’ for daytime), mannerisms (including turning to the crew and the audience) and control of the game (even as Larson’s money kept climbing).
The production design is incredible. The “Press Your Luck” set looks exactly like it was on the original, CBS version: the board, the lights, the Whammies, the colors, the graphics. And Television City looks authentic too, even though this was shot in Bogota, Colombia.
Most of all, “The Luckiest Man in America” is a fun ride, especially if you’re a lifelong game show fan. As the film progresses, it’s very interesting to witness the intense build-up of Larson’s biggest villain: the show itself — not just the Whammies, but the staff, the structure and overall atmosphere. Even if you know the outcome going in (glad there’s some real footage midway through the closing credits), it’s still thrilling to go on this journey.
LCJ GRADE: B+
Running Time: 91 min.