‘Don't Say Good Luck’ (2026) Netflix Movie Review - A Teenage Life Interrupted

This will be a refreshing watch that you will be watching for a very long time. The plot revolves around Sophie Birenbaum, a high school student whose world revolves around theatre. When she lands the lead role of Jenna in her high school’s production of Waitress, she finally gets the opportunity she always wanted. For Sophie, the production is more than another extracurricular activity. This chance is to prove herself, step into the spotlight, and discover who she might become eventually. Sadly, her excitement is interrupted when her mother Elizabeth learns that her cancer has returned.

Sophie is supposed to be enjoying some of the best moments of her teenage life, but this is suddenly cut short by this devastating news. Instead of choosing between being a teenager and a daughter, Sophie decides that she will be both. Her rehearsals, friendships, romance, and ambitions all continue to coexist even as her mother continues her battle. The premise gives Don’t Say Good Luck a plot that is recognizable. We see a character who is trying to balance between two realities. For many, her character might come across as highly relatable. Sophie has been written in a very nuanced manner. Her character has flaws and shortcomings, which shows that it is indeed close to reality. She is not perfect, and that is what makes her character worth a watch. We get to see her make mistakes, learn from them, and rise up again.

The plot is also well written. As said earlier, it is something that can be relatable to many families. The plot is no extraordinary feat, but it is these small moments that remind us that we shouldn’t be taking our lives for granted. Elisabeth’s relationship with her mother has been embedded in the plot and forms the core part of it. She wants her daughter to experience all the success in the world without her illness being the reason that stops her from doing anything that her heart wants. This creates a sense of emotional vulnerability with tender moments. Hence, most of the characters, especially the lead ones, are well written.

The pacing, however, is erratic. At one point, you will feel that things are dragged for no reason whatsoever. I do understand that the makers want us to see and understand what Sophie is undergoing. However, even with brisk pacing, that can be understood. Keeping all that aside, the cast of Don’t Say Good Luck does a great job. Melanie Lynskey as Elizabeth’s mother is phenomenal in her role. She is the emotional anchor of the film, giving us a clear look at what a mother undergoes in a situation like this. She wants the best for her daughter like any other mother, even while her illness is eating her up. On the other hand, Sunny Sandler as Sophie Birenbaum also displays the right amount of emotion in portraying her character with utmost sincerity. You won’t get bored when watching these two, along with the other cast ace on screen. So while Don’t Say Good Luck might not be the most flawless watch, the plot is what attracts you, and it should be given a watch.

Final Score - [6/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Ch
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times