Let's dive into the world of 'Big Mistakes,' a Netflix comedy-crime series that has left me with a mix of emotions. This show, created by the talented duo Dan Levy and Rachel Sennott, takes us on a journey through the lives of an unusual family and their unexpected foray into criminal activities.
The Weeds Legacy
'Big Mistakes' is a direct descendant of the iconic Showtime series 'Weeds,' a dark comedy that, in my opinion, started strong but eventually lost its way. Yet, it inspired a whole genre of shows about ordinary folks pushed into criminality by the harsh realities of capitalism.
A Confusing Family Affair
The story centers around Linda, a hardware store owner, and her ethnically and religiously diverse family. Her mayoral campaign serves as a backdrop, but the real focus is on her children, Nicky and Morgan. Nicky, a gay pastor in a denomination that forbids gay relationships, and Morgan, an aspiring actor turned teacher, find themselves entangled in a dangerous web of crime.
Broad Humor and Unraveling Plots
What's intriguing is Levy's writing style. He seems to start with broad, almost exhausting humor and then dials it back. 'Schitt's Creek' followed a similar trajectory, and I wonder if 'Big Mistakes' will too. The show is more about the plot than the characters, which is a departure from the character-driven 'Schitt's Creek.'
Lack of Motivation and the Observer Effect
One of the show's weaknesses is the lack of motivation for the characters' actions. It's as if they're all just going with the flow, which makes it hard to emotionally invest in their journeys. The observer effect comes into play here; the closer you examine the show, the more its flaws become apparent.
The Writers' Room and the Big Revelation
Despite having an impressive writers' room, 'Big Mistakes' falters with a big revelation that feels either too coincidental or too complex for the season's pacing. It's a choice that highlights the show's reliance on plot mechanics over character development.
Surface-Level Entertainment
However, the show is entertaining on the surface. The direction, editing, and score keep the pace fast and engaging. The dialogue, though sometimes catty, is well-executed and adds a layer of charm.
Character Analysis
Morgan, played by Taylor Ortega, is the most defined character and effectively anchors the series. Levy's portrayal of Nicky's growing exasperation is amusing, but I can't help but wonder why his religious background is barely touched upon. Boran Kuzum's Yusuf adds a layer of danger, but his character's arc is left hanging, leaving me uninvested.
The Future of 'Big Mistakes'
The climactic reveal left me intrigued about a potential second season. If the show can find its emotional core, like 'Schitt's Creek' did, it might just surprise us. But for now, it's a fun, if somewhat shallow, ride.
In conclusion, 'Big Mistakes' is a mixed bag. It has its moments of brilliance, but it also suffers from logical inconsistencies and a lack of depth. Personally, I'd love to see the show find its heart and explore the relationships between these unique characters more deeply.
