Gore Verbinski’s ‘Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die’ Brings AI Zombies to Life

Gore Verbinski’s upcoming film, Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die, promises a wild mix of time travel, artificial intelligence, and zombies, all set against a backdrop of societal anxieties. Set to be released on February 13, 2026, the movie showcases the director’s unique take on the modern fears surrounding technology, much like his previous works, including Pirates of the Caribbean and Rango.

The film’s trailer introduces audiences to a time-traveling character played by Sam Rockwell, who enters a diner in Los Angeles bearing a dire warning reminiscent of classic sci-fi films such as 12 Monkeys and The Terminator. Rockwell’s character, characterized by mismatched footwear, a raincoat, and a child’s backpack, claims to come from a “nightmare apocalypse.” He seeks to recruit a group to help him rectify the timeline.

As the story unfolds, Rockwell assembles a diverse team armed with gardening tools and sporting equipment to confront a new threat. This danger emerges from an AI that has captivated teenagers, turning them into zombie-like figures obsessed with their smartphones. The film features notable performances from Michael Peña, known for his role in Ant-Man, and Zazie Beetz from Invincible, as the adults they pursue.

Surreal Imagery and Critical Reception

The trailer is rich with surreal visuals, including a pastel-themed children’s birthday party and animated toys that evoke memories of the sinister creations from Toy Story’s villain, Sid Phillips. Perhaps the most bizarre element is a horse so large it could crush a car underfoot, underscoring the film’s whimsical yet eerie tone.

“The film presents a bleak view not just of the future but also of a present where Americans have resigned themselves to a violent world,”

noted critics after the film’s first public screening at Fantastic Fest in September 2023. The festival, held annually in Austin, Texas, is renowned for showcasing genre cinema, and attendees responded positively to Rockwell’s performance and the film’s satirical edge.

As Hollywood continues to explore the implications of technology through various narratives, Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die stands out with its unconventional approach. By blending humor, horror, and critical social commentary, Verbinski and co-writer Matthew Robinson invite audiences to reflect on their relationship with technology and its potential consequences.

With its release date set for February 13, 2026, the film is already generating buzz, appealing to fans of the genre who appreciate a blend of entertainment and thought-provoking themes. As anticipation builds, audiences can expect an experience that challenges perceptions while delivering a dose of cinematic chaos.