Is Dan Levy’s new Netflix show, ‘Big Mistakes’ worth watching?

Performances by Dan Levy and Taylor Ortega impress, reviewers say ‘Big Mistakes’ lacks depth and coherent structure

Netflix’s crime comedy Big Mistakes, co‑created by Dan Levy and Rachel Sennott and premiering on April 9, delivers a blend of eccentric family antics and chaotic crime‑driven plotlines that has sparked a lively critical debate. While the series boasts a talented ensemble cast and flashes of genuine humour, some reviewers have argued that the underlying narrative fails to live up to its promising premise.

At its core, Big Mistakes follows siblings Nicky, played by Levy, and Morgan, portrayed by Taylor Ortega, as they inadvertently tumble into organised crime after a botched attempt to help their dying grandmother. What begins as a seemingly innocuous plan quickly spirals into a series of escalating misadventures, drawing them into a world for which they are comically unprepared.

Critics have widely praised the cast’s energy and chemistry, especially Levy’s quirky portrayal of a conflicted pastor and Ortega’s performance as his headstrong sister. Laurie Metcalf, as the overbearing mother Linda, and supporting cast members including Abby Quinn and Boran Kuzum deliver notable turns that anchor many of the series’ funniest moments.

However, not all reviews have been unequivocally positive. Variety’s assessment suggests that Big Mistakes “wastes a perfect cast on a lacking plot”, pointing to a narrative that feels uneven and underdeveloped despite the performers’ efforts. Some critics argue that the scripted storyline often struggles to balance its comic intentions with the need for coherent progression, leading to an experience that may frustrate viewers seeking a more satisfying structure.

Other reviewers have echoed similar sentiments, noting that while the series contains genuinely amusing familial interactions and situational gags, it occasionally lacks the depth and narrative drive expected of a high‑profile Netflix comedy. One review described the plot as a “surface‑level” romp that entertains sporadically but fails to capitalise on the richness of its crime caper setup.

Despite these criticisms, some commentators have found much to admire in Big Mistakes, highlighting its bold tonal shift from Levy’s previous work on Schitt’s Creek. The series embraces a more chaotic and unpredictable world, situating dysfunctional family dynamics against the backdrop of organised crime, and for many viewers this blend creates a novel and engaging viewing experience.

The show’s premiere has generated a lively response on social media and among fans, with many drawn to its high‑energy performances and mix of humour and danger. Whether Big Mistakes will find lasting success or be remembered as a curious misstep remains a topic of ongoing discussion in entertainment circles.