Critic Reviews

With every element of the show firing on all cylinders, Lucky is poised to become as hot as a suitcase full of stolen cash.

As a miniseries, “Lucky” delivers the goods. The show features a fantastic performance by Anya Taylor-Joy, and tells a thrilling heist story that finds time to say something about family and redemption, about whether people can change despite their upbringing.

From thrilling start to satisfying finish, Apple TV’s seven-part miniseries proves an unqualified 2026 standout.

It speaks to the strength of Taylor-Joy's performance that she makes it easy to forget that anyone with a face as distinctive as hers might have a hard time remaining inconspicuous. .... Taylor-Joy is surrounded by an equally strong supporting cast. .... There's a thrill to watching Lucky work her dark magic, but the show, like its protagonist, understands the emptiness that sets in once the thrill fades away.

This is mainly just a heart-thumping ride, defiantly undemanding but enjoyably brainless fun.

Tropper and Pappas put twists in all the right places, effectively controlling viewers’ access to characters’ motives, loyalties, and backstories without coming across as manipulative. Larger questions arise organically, about parents who put their work—whatever it may be—before their children and about good vs. evil vs. the limitations of binary morality. There are many strong performances.

All seven episodes of “Lucky” feature heart-racing sequences that rival those of any worthwhile high-voltage thriller. Still, the show maintains its dynamism because it remains character-driven.

It’s a lean, fast ride that still offers plenty of opportunity to stop and appreciate the human moments wedged in between the thrills.

Anya Taylor-Joy’s scrappy protagonist grifts her way out of problems in this compelling and unpredictable drama. No luck required.

The series' primary strength is its ability to function as an Anya Taylor-Joy delivery system. Its secondary is how it does the same for Timothy Olyphant, allowing him to be charming and grizzled and superhumanly relaxed, and for Annette Bening.