About The Films

 

"OUT OF LUCK is a 6 part documentary film series focused on the history, operation, and impact of the state lotteries nationwide.  Each film covers an aspect of the business of lotteries in America, presenting an in-depth exploration of how the system works.

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Over the past 50 years, lotteries have expanded to become the largest casino in America, raking in billions of dollars, with little or no oversight at the state or federal level. With more than 45 million Americans falling below the poverty line, it is not surprising many people turn to "get rich quick" schemes like lottery as a way of improving the quality of their lives.  With 28% of those below the poverty line believing the lottery is the best way to secure their financial future, and the overwhelming number of sales coming from low-income zip codes, it is clear that the lottery is impacting those who can least afford to lose.

 

Out of Luck follows the lives of four individuals impacted by state lottery and learns their stories of struggle, and gaining an understanding of why they play despite the long odds.  The most thorough study of state-operated lottery gambling ever put on film, Out of Luck strives to find out if running a gambling system an appropriate way to raise money for government. 

 

Out of Luck features insights and commentary from leading economists, historians and authors such as Michael Medved, Taylor Branch, and Bryce Covert, and comedians such as Adam Carolla.