Let's dive into the world of 'Big Mistakes,' a Netflix crime comedy that has left audiences with mixed feelings. This show, created by the talented duo Dan Levy and Rachel Sennott, takes us on a journey through mayhem and criminality, but does it deliver on logic and heart? That's the million-dollar question.
The Weeds Legacy
'Big Mistakes' finds its roots in the iconic Showtime series 'Weeds,' a dark comedy that, let's be honest, started great and then took a turn for the silly. It's a show that many of us enjoyed despite its increasingly ludicrous nature. And now, we have a new generation of dark comedies inspired by 'Weeds,' including 'Killing It,' 'Deli Boys,' and 'Sunny Nights.' These shows share a common thread: ordinary people pushed to the brink by capitalism. It's a genre I, for one, have been thoroughly enjoying.
A Confusing Family Affair
'Big Mistakes' introduces us to a family in New Jersey, led by the enigmatic Linda, played by the brilliant Laurie Metcalf. Linda's decision to run for mayor sets the stage for a series of events that spiral out of control. The show primarily focuses on her children, Nicky and Morgan, and their secret gay relationship with Tareq, and their entanglement with Russian gangsters. It's a wild ride, to say the least.
Broad Humor and Plot Twists
The cast is impressive, and the dialogue often clever, but the show's strength lies in its ability to surprise. However, the lack of logical motivation for the characters' actions is a glaring issue. It's almost as if the writers wanted to create a comedy of errors without considering the emotional investment of the audience. The characters' actions are driven by 'poorly considered happenstance,' which, while entertaining, leaves a lot to be desired in terms of depth.
Comparing to Schitt's Creek
Dan Levy's previous work, 'Schitt's Creek,' started off broad but mellowed out over time, becoming a far better show. 'Big Mistakes,' on the other hand, doesn't seem to have that same evolution. It's more focused on plot mechanics than character development, which is a shame because the cast is talented and capable of delivering more.
The Observer Effect
Physicist-television critics would call this the observer effect: the closer you examine the show, the more its flaws become apparent. 'Big Mistakes' has an entertaining surface, with its catty and cute dialogue, tight direction, and an intense score. But beneath that surface, there's a lack of substance. It's a show that you can enjoy without overthinking, but as soon as you start analyzing, the cracks appear.
Character Development and Potential
Taylor Ortega as Morgan and Laurie Metcalf as Linda shine in their roles, bringing depth and vulnerability to their characters. Dan Levy's Nicky, however, feels underdeveloped, and his relationship with Tareq lacks the emotional depth it could have had. The show's climax reveals a plot twist that, while logic-defying, leaves us wondering if a second season could explore more emotional territories, much like 'Schitt's Creek' did.
Final Thoughts
'Big Mistakes' is a show that will entertain you, but it won't leave a lasting impression. It's a fun ride, but it lacks the heart and depth that its genre often promises. Perhaps with time and a shift in focus, it could evolve into something more, but for now, it's a comedy that relies too heavily on mayhem and not enough on character.
