Netflix’s “Big Mistakes,” created by Dan Levy of “Schitt’s Creek” fame and Rachel Sennott, known for “I Love L.A.,” is a wildly chaotic crime comedy focusing on two siblings caught in a whirlwind of misadventures. While featuring thrilling elements, the series offers a frenzied portrayal of family dynamics, ambition, and the courage to defy norms. Despite an outstanding cast, the convoluted storyline dilutes the comedy’s potential sharpness.
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The show begins in central New Jersey, where siblings Nicky (played by Levy) and Morgan (Taylor Ortega) find themselves in a tense hospital room. Their mother, Linda (performed exceptionally by Laurie Metcalf), and their self-righteous younger sister, Natalie (Abby Quinn), are preoccupied with their ailing grandmother. Amidst planning a grand birthday celebration for her dying mother and her political campaign for town mayor, Linda demands that Nicky and Morgan buy their grandmother a nice necklace as a gift.
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Nicky, a pastor, and Morgan, a schoolteacher, are both financially strapped. When they see a necklace at a local shop, they attempt to purchase it. However, Yusuf (Boran Kuzum), the store manager, denies their request, claiming the necklace is not for sale. Undeterred, Morgan decides to steal the necklace, sparking a series of bizarre events that make the eight-episode season feel longer.
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The siblings’ actions lead them into the clutches of a Russian gangster, Ivan (Mark Ivanir), who enlists them as his minions. Morgan initially finds the criminal life intriguing, but the demands of Ivan and Yusuf begin to affect her relationship with her boyfriend, Max (Jack Innanen). For Nicky, the stakes are even higher as he conceals his relationship with Tareq (Jacob Gutierrez) from the church, which tolerates his sexuality only if kept private. Juggling lawlessness, family, and secrets becomes overwhelming for him.
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While the cast of “Big Mistakes” is remarkable, the plot is so chaotic it nearly overshadows everything else. In Episode 7, titled “I’ve Really Enjoyed My Time With You,” Nicky and Morgan find themselves in Miami at Ivan’s behest. The events they encounter require a complete leap of faith from the audience, disrupting the previously established realism and making the episode feel disjointed.
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Despite its disordered narrative, “Big Mistakes” contains moments of joy. Laurie Metcalf delivers an extraordinary performance as a mother and business owner eager for recognition. Levy and Ortega portray siblings whose contrasting personalities create a dynamic tension, but their bond remains strong despite their history and circumstances. The characters’ eccentricities prevent the series from collapsing.
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In conclusion, “Big Mistakes” offers a tumultuous yet entertaining experience. More refined writing and editing could have streamlined the narrative, enhancing its comedic essence. Although the plot is muddled, the show’s tone, humor, and characters offer viewers glimpses into Levy and Sennott’s unique world. Above all, it captures the essence of sibling relationships and the enduring support they provide.
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“Big Mistakes” is now streaming on Netflix.
