Let's dive into the world of dark comedy and explore the latest offering from Netflix, 'Big Mistakes'. This show, created by the dynamic duo of Dan Levy and Rachel Sennott, has sparked some interesting discussions among critics and viewers alike.
The Weeds Legacy
'Big Mistakes' can be seen as a spiritual successor to the iconic Showtime series 'Weeds', which left an indelible mark on the landscape of dark comedy. The show's creator, Jenji Kohan, crafted a narrative that evolved from perceptive and pointed to, well, let's just say, less so. However, it's this very evolution that has inspired a new wave of dark comedies, including 'Killing It', 'Deli Boys', and 'Sunny Nights'.
A Comedy of Errors
The premise of 'Big Mistakes' is intriguing: a family drama with a twist of criminality. The story centers around Linda, a hardware store owner, and her children, Nicky and Morgan. What starts as a simple shopping trip for a gift turns into a web of criminal entanglement with Russian gangsters. It's a classic case of 'the wrong place at the wrong time', but with a comedic twist.
Character Development (or Lack Thereof)
One of the show's strengths lies in its cast, particularly Laurie Metcalf as Linda and Abby Quinn as Natalie. Metcalf's performance is a standout, showcasing her versatility and ability to command the screen. However, the show seems to struggle with character development, especially with Nicky and Morgan. Their relationships, whether romantic or familial, feel superficial and lack the depth that could make the show truly compelling.
The Writer's Room
With a writers' room boasting talent from 'Mad Men' and other well-regarded series, one would expect a more nuanced approach to storytelling. However, 'Big Mistakes' seems to rely on broad humor and plot mechanics rather than character development. The motivation behind the characters' actions often feels like a stretch, leaving viewers questioning the logic of the narrative.
The Observer Effect
As critics have pointed out, 'Big Mistakes' suffers from the observer effect. The closer you examine the show, the more its flaws become apparent. While the surface-level entertainment is there, with catchy dialogue and intense direction, the lack of depth becomes glaringly obvious.
A Potential Second Season?
Despite its flaws, the show's climactic reveal leaves viewers with a glimmer of hope for a second season. While it may not reach the emotional heights of 'Schitt's Creek', there's a possibility that the show could evolve and find its footing.
In conclusion, 'Big Mistakes' is a mixed bag. It has its moments of humor and entertainment, but it also struggles with logic and character development. Whether it will find its way to a second season and improve remains to be seen. For now, it's a show that leaves you with more questions than answers, and that's not always a bad thing.
