Dan Levy’s Big Mistakes explores messy family bonds and moral chaos in a pastor’s downfall

Dan Levy’s new Netflix series, Big Mistakes, marks his return to television after the huge success of Schitt’s Creek. Co-created with Rachel Sennott, the show follows Nicky, a jittery pastor played by Levy, who hides his relationship from his family and congregation while being drawn into criminal trouble. When his sister Morgan, portrayed hilariously by Taylor Ortega, steals what she believes is a fake necklace for their dying grandmother, she inadvertently triggers pursuit from a criminal gang guarding the real jewellery. The premise, while entertaining, doesn’t entirely hold up under scrutiny – plot holes and forced twists abound – yet the show compensates with strong comedic chemistry and sharp family dynamics. Laurie Metcalf brilliantly plays their guilt-wielding mother, engaged in a chaotic mayoral campaign that adds tension and humour. Levy captures the absurdity of family reunions, with rapid-fire sibling banter and emotional regression, making the domestic cringe comedy far more compelling than its crime subplot. Although Big Mistakes isn’t without flaws, its performances and relational depth give it genuine charm. It’s a solid, if uneven, study of dysfunction wrapped in witty dialogue and stylish direction – proof that Levy’s greatest strength remains in exploring family chaos and emotional vulnerability through sharp, character-driven humour.