The Star-Maker vs. The Star-Made: A Tale of Two TV Show Types
In the world of television, a fascinating dichotomy exists between the shows that catapult unknown talents into stardom and those crafted by the very stars they create. This intriguing phenomenon sets the stage for our exploration of 'Big Mistakes', the latest offering from Dan Levy, the creative mind behind the beloved sitcom 'Schitt's Creek'.
The Rise of the Star-Makers
Let's start with the shows that make stars. These are the ensemble productions that introduce us to fresh faces, turning them into household names. Think of hits like 'Bridgerton', 'Euphoria', and 'Industry', where the cast members become the stars we can't get enough of. But there's another category within this group—the passion projects that elevate their creators to stardom. Phoebe Waller-Bridge's 'Fleabag' and Michaela Coel's 'I May Destroy You' are prime examples, showcasing the power of a creator's vision to captivate audiences and launch careers.
Dan Levy's 'Schitt's Creek' fits snugly into this category. Despite having a famous father, Eugene Levy, as his co-creator, Dan's sitcom was a grassroots success. It debuted on a Canadian network and gradually gained global recognition after being picked up by Netflix. This is a classic example of a show that made its creator a star.
The Star-Made Conundrum
Now, let's turn to the second type of show—the ones made by stars. These are the projects that follow a creator's breakthrough success, often backed by lucrative streaming deals. But here's the catch—these shows don't always live up to the hype. Take Amazon's deal with Phoebe Waller-Bridge, which hasn't yet yielded a blockbuster hit. Similarly, Netflix's collaboration with Dan Levy, 'Good Grief', seems to have missed the mark, offering a melancholic indie film instead of the expected rambunctious comedy.
Big Mistakes: A Star-Made Adventure
Enter 'Big Mistakes', Dan Levy's latest venture, co-created with Rachel Sennott. This time, Levy steps in front of the camera, playing Nicky, a pastor with a secret boyfriend and a demanding family. The show introduces us to his cool schoolteacher sister, Morgan, and their overbearing mother, creating a dynamic that Levy excels at—dysfunctional family relationships. The premise, however, feels like a familiar setup, reminiscent of shows like 'Fargo', 'Ozark', and 'Only Murders in the Building', where ordinary people get entangled in the criminal underworld.
What's intriguing is how 'Big Mistakes' leans heavily on this trope without offering much innovation. The plot twists and turns, but often in implausible ways, leaving viewers with more questions than answers. The show seems to prioritize keeping the characters in the criminal world rather than crafting a compelling narrative. This is where it falls short—in its failure to provide a fresh take on an overused concept.
The Art of Family Dynamics
Where 'Big Mistakes' shines is in its portrayal of family dynamics. Levy has a knack for capturing the complex relationships between siblings and parents. The interactions between Nicky and Morgan are a delight, showcasing the instant regression to childhood dynamics when adults reunite with their siblings. The petulant squabbles and inside jokes feel all too real. Moreover, the trio's relationship with their mother, a stressed-out mayoral candidate, adds a layer of tension that complements the show's tone.
The Star-Maker's Dilemma
The question arises: can shows made by stars ever truly surpass the ones that made them? 'Big Mistakes' is a testament to the challenges of following up on a breakthrough success. While it has its moments, particularly in the family dynamics, it struggles to stand out in a crowded field of similar concepts. Perhaps the pressure to deliver on a big streaming deal can hinder creativity, leading to more formulaic storytelling.
In the end, 'Big Mistakes' is a reminder that the magic of television often lies in the unexpected, in the unknown talents and fresh ideas that capture our imaginations. It's a fine line to walk for stars like Dan Levy, who must balance the expectations of their newfound fame with the creative freedom that made them stars in the first place.
