When it comes to television, there's an intriguing dynamic at play. Some shows are star-makers, launching unknown talents into the limelight, while others are the brainchildren of already established stars. Schitt's Creek, created by Dan Levy, falls into the latter category, and now Levy is back with a new comedy, Big Mistakes, co-created with Rachel Sennott.
Big Mistakes centers around Nicky, a pastor played by Levy, who is hiding his boyfriend from his family and congregation. The show also stars Taylor Ortega as Nicky's cool school teacher sister, Morgan, and Laurie Metcalf as their emotionally volatile mother. The premise is intriguing, but as I delved into the series, I found myself questioning some of the narrative choices.
One of the most glaring issues is the lack of explanation for why a valuable asset, a diamond necklace, is so easily accessible to the public. This leads to a series of implausible events that feel more like a stretch to keep the plot going than a natural progression of the story. It's a common pitfall in shows that feature civilians entangled in organized crime, and Big Mistakes doesn't offer a fresh take on this trope. The final twist, while surprising, fails to tie into the overall narrative in a satisfying way.
However, where Big Mistakes shines is in its portrayal of family dynamics. Levy excels at creating on-screen families that feel authentic and engaging. The dynamic between Nicky and Morgan, with their contrasting personalities, is a highlight. Levy captures the psychological regression that occurs when siblings reunite, and the cast, including Metcalf and Ortega, deliver brilliant performances. Their personal styles are also a delight, with Nicky's Instagram-friendly Seinfeld-esque fashion and Morgan's gothic boho chic.
Despite its flaws, Big Mistakes is far from a disaster. It's a solid comedy with a talented cast, but it doesn't quite reach the heights of Levy's previous work. Shows created by stars often face an uphill battle, as they have to live up to the expectations set by their creators' previous successes. While Big Mistakes is an enjoyable watch, it may not be the blockbuster Netflix was hoping for when they signed Levy. Nonetheless, it's a testament to Levy's talent and a welcome addition to the streaming platform's comedy lineup.
