Big Mistakes Review: Dan Levy’s Crime Comedy Becomes Netflix Hit

Netflix’s latest breakout series, Big Mistakes, is quickly gaining attention for its unusual mix of crime, comedy, and social commentary. Co-created by Dan Levy—best known for the Emmy-winning Schitt’s Creek—the show marks a bold creative shift, combining dysfunctional family humor with a chaotic plunge into the criminal underworld.

The eight-episode series follows the lives of siblings Nicky and Morgan, played by Levy and Taylor Ortega, who become entangled in dangerous criminals after a seemingly insignificant theft. What begins as a small mistake quickly escalates into a series of increasingly absurd and risky situations, forcing the pair to navigate both family tensions and criminal demands.

The show's success is attributed, according to critics, to its ability to transform everyday dysfunction into high-stakes comedy. One of the most talked-about aspects of Big Mistakes is its strong critical reception. The show has earned an impressive score of around 95% on Rotten Tomatoes, signaling widespread approval from critics. It has also quickly climbed Netflix’s trending charts, suggesting that audiences are just as engaged as reviewers. This combination of critical acclaim and popularity positions the series as one of the platform’s most notable recent releases.

But at its core, the show is more about characters than it is about crime. Much like Levy’s previous work, Big Mistakes places heavy emphasis on relationships—particularly the messy, often hilarious dynamics within a family. Laurie Metcalf’s portrayal of the siblings’ overbearing mother has been widely praised, with critics highlighting her ability to balance intensity and humor.

Even though the plot gets more and more out of hand, the cast's chemistry keeps the show grounded. Stylistically, the series blends genres in a way that feels both familiar and fresh. While it borrows elements from classic crime dramas, it subverts expectations by focusing on characters who are deeply unqualified for the situations they find themselves in. This creates a constant tension between danger and absurdity, as the protagonists stumble through scenarios that would typically be handled by seasoned criminals.

Big Mistakes also stands out for its investigation of identity, particularly through Nicky's perspective. As a closeted pastor grappling with his sexuality, Nicky’s personal struggles add emotional depth to the story. The show offers a perspective that is both contemporary and relatable by employing humor to discuss topics such as queerness, expectations from society, and personal authenticity. The series has received praise for its LGBTQ+-focused storytelling, which challenges established norms in both the comedy and the crime genres. At the same time, the show has not been without criticism.

When it heavily incorporates elements of crime, some reviewers argue that the plot can feel inconsistent or contrived. Moments may appear exaggerated or implausible because the plot occasionally sacrifices coherence for comedic effect. However, even critics who point out these flaws often acknowledge that the humor and performances compensate for narrative weaknesses.

The show's appeal lies in its ability to strike a balance between chaos and charm. Rather than striving for realism, Big Mistakes embraces its own absurdity, creating a tone that is both unpredictable and entertaining. The series reflects a broader trend in television, where genre-blending and unconventional storytelling are increasingly common.

Importantly, Dan Levy enters a new era with Big Mistakes. After the massive success of Schitt’s Creek, expectations for his next project were high. Levy demonstrates a willingness to take creative risks by moving into darker, more experimental territory while still maintaining the character-driven humor that characterized his earlier work. Ultimately, Big Mistakes succeeds because it knows exactly what it wants to be: a messy, character-focused comedy that uses crime as a backdrop rather than a central focus. Its combination of sharp writing, strong performances, and socially relevant themes makes it a standout addition to Netflix’s lineup.

It remains to be seen whether it will have the same cultural impact as Levy's previous work. However, for the time being, Big Mistakes has established itself as a show that is not only entertaining but also unique. It demonstrates that sometimes, the most compelling stories emerge from the smallest mistakes.