Tag: film adaptation

Jon Hamm’s seamless leap from ‘Mad Men’ to OTT comedy

**Jon Hamm’s Seamless Leap from ‘Mad Men’ to OTT Comedy**
*By Vinita Jain | Sep 23, 2025 | 07:14 pm*

Jon Hamm, best known for his iconic role in *Mad Men*, has made a bold and seamless transition into the world of OTT with his latest project, *Confess, Fletch*. This film is a modern adaptation of the classic character created by Gregory McDonald and marks Hamm’s intriguing shift from period drama to contemporary comedy.

**Embracing Modern Storytelling**
Hamm’s move to OTT platforms signals his willingness to embrace new storytelling techniques. OTT services often offer greater creative freedom and room for experimentation compared to traditional film studios. By choosing roles that challenge conventional narratives, Hamm showcases his versatility and ability to adapt to evolving audience preferences.

**Balancing Comedy and Drama**
In *Confess, Fletch*, Hamm perfectly balances elements of comedy and drama. His role requires him to be both charming and witty, as well as serious and thoughtful. This blend not only makes his character relatable and engaging but also highlights his talent for navigating different genres without losing his signature appeal.

**Collaborating with Diverse Talent**
A significant factor behind Hamm’s successful transformation is his collaboration with a diverse group of talent. The film brings together seasoned actors and rising stars, each offering unique perspectives. Working alongside varied creatives has allowed Hamm to explore fresh ideas and deepen his performances.

**Navigating OTT Challenges**
Transitioning from traditional cinema to OTT platforms comes with unique challenges, such as adapting to shorter formats and differing production values. Thanks to his extensive experience across both mediums, Hamm manages to navigate these hurdles adeptly while maintaining high-quality performances.

Jon Hamm’s evolution from a celebrated period drama actor to a contemporary comedy lead exemplifies his dynamic range and open-minded approach to storytelling, making his journey into OTT both inspiring and noteworthy.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/jon-hamm-s-career-transformation-5-must-know-facts/story

Good fortune on gig economy

One of the more delightful mainstream films at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) was *Good Fortune*, an American film in English featured in a Gala presentation. Directed by American comedian Aziz Ansari, who has roots in Tamil Nadu, the film also stars Keke Palmer and Sandra Oh. *Good Fortune* is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release, including in India, on October 17, 2025.

From the South Asian diaspora at TIFF, two diverse features explored the evils of capitalism. One of these was Aneil Karia’s *Hamlet*, presented as a Centrepiece film. This powerful British adaptation of Shakespeare’s great tragedy is performed in both Punjabi and Shakespearean English, starring Riz Ahmed and Sheeba Chaddha.

*Good Fortune* continues the growing trend of comedians becoming film actors, stars, and directors—following in the footsteps of icons such as Charlie Chaplin, Chris Rock, and Jordan Peele. This mirrors a historical shift when singers became film stars with the advent of sound in cinema, a trend also seen with India’s own Kapil Sharma.

The story centers on an angel named Gabriel (played by Keanu Reeves), a lowly angel with small wings whose duties are limited to preventing people from texting and driving simultaneously. Gabriel’s life changes when he observes the struggles of Arj (Aziz Ansari), a gig worker delivering for an app-based company. Arj juggles multiple shifts, barely manages to feed himself, and is forced to sleep in his car, which eventually gets towed due to unpaid parking tickets.

Out of compassion, Gabriel swaps lives with Jeff (Seth Rogen), a wealthy venture capitalist whose California mansion Arj regularly delivers goods to. Gabriel expects that Arj will soon realize the flaws of the wealthy, carefree life and want to swap back to his humble existence. However, to Gabriel’s surprise, Arj enjoys his new life—sipping cocktails by the pool—and has no intention of returning to his previous hardships.

The film’s narrative borrows elements from several classics: Wim Wenders’ *Wings of Desire* (1987), where an angel comes to Earth; the body-swap comedy *Freaky Friday*; and nods to Frank Capra’s *It’s a Wonderful Life*, in which a man contemplating suicide reconsiders after reflecting on his selfless acts and the impact he has made.

*Good Fortune* employs some narrative back-and-forth, with Gabriel visible only to Arj, mixing laugh-out-loud comedy with poignant moments. The film highlights the hearts of gold found at the bottom of the gig economy—such as Arj’s on-again, off-again partner, who dreams of starting a union to fight for workers’ rights, not just for those fortunate enough to currently benefit.

Keanu Reeves’ deadpan portrayal of the angel anchors the film, while Seth Rogen delivers a dry wit in his role. Aziz Ansari, who co-created and directed 11 episodes of the critically acclaimed Netflix series *Master of None*, as well as his 2022 comedy special *Nightclub Comedian*, brings his distinct voice to this project.

Presented by Lionsgate, *Good Fortune* is backed by producers Aziz Ansari, Anthony Katagas, and Alan Yang. Executive producers include Aniz Adam Ansari, Jonathan McCoy, Christopher Woodrow, and Connor DiGregorio. In India, the film will be distributed by PVR INOX Pictures.

Meenakshi Shedde, a film curator with 30 years of experience working with Toronto, Berlin, and other international film festivals, has played roles such as Cannes Film Festival Jury Member and Golden Globes International Voter. She is also a respected journalist and critic. You can reach her at meenakshi.shedde@mid-day.com.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/opinion/article/good-fortune-on-gig-economy-23595011

Exit mobile version