“I have an irrational fear of being blackmailed into organized crime,” said Dan Levy, the creator of Netflix’s latest comedy series, Big Mistakes. This striking admission sets the tone for a show that intertwines humor with high-stakes drama, exploring the chaotic lives of its characters as they navigate the treacherous waters of blackmail and familial dysfunction.
Big Mistakes centers around siblings Nicky and Morgan, who find themselves embroiled in a criminal plot after an impulsive theft. The series, which is currently streaming on Netflix, showcases Levy’s signature comedic style while delving into darker themes than his previous work, Schitt’s Creek. Levy, who previously won an Emmy for his earlier series, has teamed up with Rachel Sennott to bring this new project to life.
The show features a dynamic cast, including Taylor Ortega and Laurie Metcalf, who contribute to the rich tapestry of characters that Levy has crafted. “What Dan’s really good at is not just writing these whole characters for other people. He’s really good at making the characters trigger each other,” Ortega remarked, highlighting Levy’s knack for creating tension and comedy through character interactions.
Levy’s character, Nicky, is a gay pastor who unwittingly becomes involved with a criminal outfit, adding layers to the narrative that challenge traditional stereotypes. “I wanted to make sure that Morgan was accurately written, so I went to a female writer to help flesh out that character,” Levy explained, emphasizing his commitment to authenticity in character development. This approach is reflected in the show’s all-female DP team and diverse creative staff, aiming for a more inclusive representation in storytelling.
Developed over six months via Zoom, the creative process culminated in a five-day in-person workshop, allowing the team to refine their vision for the series. Levy’s ambition with Big Mistakes is clear: “This is a roller coaster ride. I want people to have fun, lock in and just ride it out,” he stated, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the chaotic world of his characters.
As the series unfolds, it promises to explore the complexities of family dynamics under pressure, pushing the boundaries of comedy while addressing serious themes. With all episodes now available on Netflix, audiences are eager to see how Levy’s vision translates into a compelling viewing experience.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding future seasons or potential spin-offs, but the reception of Big Mistakes could pave the way for more innovative storytelling from Levy and his collaborators. As Netflix continues to evolve its content offerings, the impact of Big Mistakes may signal a shift in how comedic narratives are approached in the streaming landscape.