Let's dive into the world of 'Big Mistakes,' a Netflix crime comedy that has left viewers with a mix of emotions. This show, created by Dan Levy and Rachel Sennott, is an interesting take on the dark comedy genre, and it's got me thinking about the evolution of this unique TV niche.
The Weeds Legacy
Weeds, a Showtime classic, paved the way for a new breed of dark comedies. It started strong, with a perceptive and pointed narrative, but eventually veered into the realm of the absurd. Yet, its influence is undeniable, spawning a wave of similar shows like Killing It, Deli Boys, and Sunny Nights. 'Big Mistakes' feels like a direct descendant, carrying the torch for this unique genre.
A Story of Mayhem and Missteps
The story revolves around an ethnically diverse family, led by the charismatic Laurie Metcalf as Linda, a hardware store owner turned mayoral candidate. But the real focus is on her children, Nicky (Dan Levy) and Morgan (Taylor Ortega), who find themselves entangled in a criminal web after a simple shopping trip goes awry. The show's strength lies in its cast and clever dialogue, but the plot often feels like a series of coincidences, driven by poorly considered decisions.
The Levy Touch
Dan Levy, known for his work on Schitt's Creek, seems to have a formula: start broad and dial it back as the audience adjusts. Schitt's Creek evolved from a broad comedy into a nuanced, heartwarming series. However, 'Big Mistakes' doesn't seem to follow this trajectory. It's more plot-driven than character-centric, and the characters' motivations often feel like an afterthought.
Motivation vs. Mayhem
What sets 'Big Mistakes' apart from its genre peers is the lack of organic, economic desperation that drives the characters' actions. Instead, it's a series of poorly considered happenstances that lead to criminal entanglements. While this approach is a choice, it's one that might leave viewers feeling emotionally detached.
The Observer Effect
Physicist-television critics might call this the observer effect: the show is more enjoyable when watched casually, without overanalyzing. It's an entertaining surface, with sharp direction and an intense score, but there's little depth beneath. The characters, especially Morgan (Ortega) and Linda (Metcalf), shine through, but the overall narrative feels like it's missing a heart.
A Potential Second Chance?
Despite its flaws, the climactic reveal at the end of the first season leaves room for improvement. It hints at a potential second season that could delve deeper into the characters' relationships and emotions, much like Schitt's Creek did. However, as of now, 'Big Mistakes' feels like it's missing that heart-filled emotional core.
In my opinion, 'Big Mistakes' is an intriguing attempt at a dark comedy, but it falls short of the mark set by its genre predecessors. It's a show that might benefit from a shift in focus, from plot mechanics to character development, to truly engage and resonate with viewers.
