It Could Happen to You - A Movie Review

Appreciate everything in life, including the little things.

It Could Happen to You is a 1994 film based on a true story. The winning lottery is to be announced. A police officer promises to share his lottery ticket with a waitress instead of a tip. To their surprise, Charlie wins $4 million, leading to life-changing events.

Money gives one the power to buy valuable items, but will it make you happy? It Could Happen to You was made with a genuine heart. It’s an entertaining film that establishes a rewarding moral about the consequences of sudden wealth and challenges.

The film centers around a cop, his loud and greedy wife, and a waitress. Nicolas Cage, Bridget Fonda, and Rosie Perez are fantastic in their roles. Each has a different opinion on their riches, using it for monetary gains or goodwill.

Nicolas Cage delivers a sincere performance as Charlie. His portrayal of an everyday hero is grounded in humility and kindness, making it easy for the audience to root for him. Bridget Fonda complements Cage perfectly as Yvonne, capturing the struggles and resilience of a woman down on her luck with grace and authenticity.

Cage and Fonda had wonderful chemistry. I felt the growing bond between them. The pair enjoyed their time spent on this film, even Cage’s clumsy rollerblading scene. Charlie and Yvonne have both experienced unsuccessful relationships.

Rosie Perez did her job as Muriel a careless and selfish woman who also screams a lot. Murial has something to say about everything. Her character is important, especially how she ignores the little things over Charlie.

There’s an unrecognizable appearance by Stanley Tucci. It took me a moment to realize it was him! More credits include Wendell Pierce, Isaac Hughes, Ann Dowd, and the late Red Buttons. I have only seen Red Buttons in my favorite disaster movie, The Poseidon Adventure.

Andrew Bergman had good direction in scenes, shaping the film’s tone and pacing. He told his actors to react naturally in scenes. The best example is when Charlie returns to the diner to inform Yvonne that he won the lottery. She has a delayed response and feels that she cannot accept it.

The film doesn’t fall under a typical romance film. It has its share of romance and humor but sparks originality. I also liked the comedy choices. Bergman established the comedy and made the film genuine to the real story. Reactions from the actors are delivered naturally and the dialogue is sharp and often humorous.

Set in New York City, Bergman’s use of the backdrop adds an extra layer of authenticity to the narrative. The city’s hustle and bustle juxtapose beautifully with the quieter, more intimate moments between Charlie and Yvonne. The coffee shop building was made from scratch for the movie and then destroyed right after.

Bergman identified generosity, honesty, and tolerance in his direction. This story is important to recognize for its positive demonstration of human kindness. Human kindness is an influential demonstration. Continue to exhibit acts of kindness, especially for younger generations. One act of kindness goes a long way. Always think about others.

It Could Happen to You has a heart. I found out after my watch that the film is based on a true story. What would you do if you won the lottery? Money is always a relatable theme. Most importantly, the main characters found love and discovered alternatives to their situations.

This is one of those films that stays with you long after the credits. Take a look at It Could Happen to You on Netflix.