It Could Happen to You

It Could Happen to You has quietly become one of the more dependable comedies currently available in Australia on Stan, and in the US on Starz Apple TV Channel and YouTube TV. It says what it needs to say in one sitting, no filler. A 7/10 rating says what the writing already makes obvious: this one works. Nicolas Cage's performance alone is worth the time investment. Start it on Stan whenever you need something guaranteed to land.

Part of the current wave of titles people are actually watching, It Could Happen to You earns its spot. Sharp writing and a well-matched ensemble are what separate It Could Happen to You from the crowd. Charlie Lang is a simple, kindhearted New York City cop. When he realizes he has no money to tip waitress Yvonne Biasi, Lang offers her half the winnings of his lottery ticket. Amazingly, the ticket happens to be a winner, in the sum of $4 million. Nicolas Cage and Bridget Fonda lead a cast that brings real weight to the material. It was released in 1994. What keeps It Could Happen to You from feeling disposable is a cast that clearly understands the material better than the format usually demands. It delivers reliably on what it promises, which is more than most of its competition manages.

For viewers who want something light without wanting something stupid, It Could Happen to You respects your intelligence. It stands on its own even without an obvious comparison point. The complete film is available and best experienced without too much prior knowledge of where it goes. Nicolas Cage sets the tone, but the supporting cast is where a lot of the best moments come from. A reliable pick for any night you want quality comedy without the homework.