Shortcut to Happiness

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Ralph R Shortcut to Happiness is one of those movies with a cool premise that never really gets to shine the way it should. The story follows Jabez Stone, a struggling writer who makes a deal with the devil for success—a classic setup. But instead of giving us a deep dive into Jabez’s character or the actual cost of “success,” the movie just kind of skims the surface and moves along. What’s wild is the behind-the-scenes drama. Alec Baldwin not only starred in the movie but actually directed it, and then things went off the rails. After filming wrapped, the studio took over and started making changes, editing, reshoots, the works. Baldwin hated the final cut so much that he asked for his name to be taken off as director, so you’ll see “Harry Kirkpatrick” in the credits instead. It’s honestly a movie where the backstory is more interesting than the film itself. Production-wise, you can tell it’s been through the wringer. The editing is choppy, the tone shifts around, and it never really finds its footing. The cast is solid on paper, but nobody gets enough material to do something memorable. The script had potential, but most of it feels watered down, probably thanks to all those edits. Honestly, I just kept thinking what it could’ve been like if Baldwin was allowed to release the version he wanted. The final movie is watchable, but it never gets past “just okay,” which is a shame. If you’re curious about behind-the-scenes chaos, this is a great example. Rated 1.5/5 Stars •  Rated 1.5 out of 5 stars 08/02/25 Full Review Keron C Don;t waste your time. The story doesn't really make sense. The bones of a good film are there - but they messed it up and Alec Baldwin does not suit this type of character. Great cast - poor script and directing. Rated 1.5/5 Stars •  Rated 1.5 out of 5 stars 07/25/25 Full Review Rik O All the ingredients are here for a comedy, but it doesn't do that, and that's a shame. Instead it goes for serious moral tale but it doesn't really say anything. An incredible all star cast that deserves a better script. It just needed better writers, such a waste of potential. Rated 2/5 Stars •  Rated 2 out of 5 stars 07/22/25 Full Review Timothy T Great cast but terrible execution of the script. Had high hopes for this movie but it turned out to be a dud. Rated 0.5/5 Stars •  Rated 0.5 out of 5 stars 05/17/24 Full Review Mike C You try to watch and can’t believe with all these intriguing beautiful talented actors, that something released to the public could be so horrible. The end credits song makes you feel the same as the entire movie did watching. Rated 0.5/5 Stars •  Rated 0.5 out of 5 stars 04/30/24 Full Review Carlos I It's a groaner. It lacks any kind of charm or wit to keep your attention for any amount of time. And boy oh boy Jennifer Love Hewitt bad as the devil... Oof! Rated 1.5/5 Stars •  Rated 1.5 out of 5 stars 07/20/23 Full Review Read all reviews

Shortcut to Happiness

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