“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 explores the chaotic consequences of impulsive decisions and the complexities of family relationships.
Big Mistakes follows siblings Nicky and Morgan, who find themselves entangled in a web of blackmail after a reckless theft. The series, which is now streaming on Netflix, showcases Levy’s signature blend of humor and heart, reminiscent of his Emmy-winning work on Schitt’s Creek. However, this time, the stakes are higher, and the narrative dives deeper into the darker aspects of family dynamics.
Levy, who collaborated with Rachel Sennott to develop the series, emphasizes the importance of authenticity in character writing. He remarked, “I wanted to make sure that Morgan was accurately written, so I went to a female writer to help flesh out that character.” This commitment to genuine representation is evident throughout the show, which features a diverse creative team and an all-female director of photography team.
The cast includes notable talents such as Taylor Ortega and Laurie Metcalf, who bring depth to their roles. Ortega noted, “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.” This interplay among characters adds layers to the narrative, making it not just a comedy but a thrilling ride through the ups and downs of familial relationships.
Developed over six months via Zoom, followed by a five-day in-person workshop, Big Mistakes reflects the challenges and innovations of creating television during the pandemic. Levy’s character, Nicky, is a gay pastor who becomes embroiled in a criminal outfit, showcasing the show’s blend of humor and crime thriller elements.
Levy describes the series as a “roller coaster ride” meant to entertain viewers. He stated, “I want people to have fun, lock in and just ride it out.” With its unique premise and engaging characters, Big Mistakes aims to captivate audiences looking for a fresh take on the comedy genre.
As all episodes are now available on Netflix, viewers can dive into this chaotic world filled with laughter, tension, and unexpected twists. The series not only highlights Levy’s growth as a creator but also raises the bar for storytelling in the comedy landscape.
