The new Apple TV+ series "Lucky," starring Anya Taylor-Joy, has elicited a range of reactions from critics, with some hailing the actress as "riveting" and the show as "classic summer viewing," while others have criticized it as "tediously formulaic."
The seven-part series, directed by Jet Wilkinson, features Taylor-Joy as Luciana 'Lucky' Armstrong, a con artist who goes on the run after a multimillion-dollar heist takes an unexpected turn. She is pursued by both the FBI and a crime boss, portrayed by Annette Bening.
Early reviews emerged after the first two episodes were released on Wednesday. The Daily Telegraph awarded "Lucky" two out of five stars, with critic Ed Power describing the series as cliché-ridden and suggesting Taylor-Joy struggled to embody the lead character. Power likened the story to a blend of "Pulp Fiction" and '90s adaptations of Elmore Leonard novels, noting that the protagonist seemed defined by the men in her life rather than her own agency.
RogerEbert.com also gave the series two stars, calling it an example of the "'Why Isn’t This a Movie' problem of the modern streaming era." The review suggested that after a promising opening, the show "spin[s] its wheels to meet the episode order rather than develop the story at a reasonable pace," imagining a more concise film version.
The Guardian offered a more positive take, awarding three stars and labeling it "classic summer viewing," though it noted the series "refuses to commit to its nonsense." The publication advised audiences to appreciate the strong elements, such as the performances of Taylor-Joy and Bening, while overlooking the less successful aspects.
Conversely, NME provided a four-star review, calling the thriller "instantly gripping, filled with twists and lots of fun." Critic Nick Levine praised Taylor-Joy's "riveting" performance as Lucky, a con artist with a conscience, and noted that despite some predictable or convoluted moments, the series "works all the right angles."
The Wrap offered a glowing assessment, calling it Taylor-Joy's "career-best performance" and describing the thriller as "electrifying." The review highlighted Taylor-Joy's ability to carry the show, portraying Lucky's desperation, exhilaration, and cunning. It further suggested that "Lucky" is a well-structured TV series rather than a drawn-out movie, with effective episodic and serialized storytelling.
Variety commented on Taylor-Joy's performance, contrasting it with her role in "Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga," which it suggested was "overwhelmed" by the spectacle. The review stated that "Lucky" explores themes of self-confrontation and accepting one's flaws, ultimately suggesting that the cost of self-deception can be insurmountable.
The Hollywood Reporter presented a mixed view, describing the series as "half frivolous lark, half self-important commentary," but acknowledging that Taylor-Joy and the ensemble cast "work hard to swim against the underdeveloped stream."
"Lucky" premiered on Apple TV+ on Wednesday, July 15.