**Big Mistakes: Cast Shares Insights on Building Chemistry Through Games and Trust**
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In the making of Netflix’s latest series “Big Mistakes,” the cast and crew found unique ways to establish a familial bond that resonates on-screen. Leading the charge is Dan Levy, who not only stars in the show but is also one of its co-creators. Joined by co-stars Laurie Metcalf and Taylor Ortega, Levy discussed the process behind crafting an authentic, if dysfunctional, family dynamic that mirrors their previous successful collaboration in “Schitt’s Creek.”

“Establishing trust and spending time in rehearsal were instrumental in our journey,” Levy shared in an exclusive interview. “Before we faced the cameras, we dedicated a day to rehearsing some of the more challenging scenes that demanded precise choreography. This preparation was crucial for understanding our interactions, especially as the narrative places the audience right in the midst of a family crisis.”
“Big Mistakes” follows siblings Nicky, played by Levy, and Morgan, portrayed by Ortega, as their lives take a drastic turn following an impulsive theft at a pawn shop. The show’s success hinges on the actors’ ability to portray a believable sibling relationship, filled with genuine emotion and connection.
In a delightful twist, it was their shared love of the word game Boggle that accelerated the bonding process among cast members. “If the audience does not believe in the family dynamic, the entire premise collapses,” Levy explained. “We made a conscious effort to connect with each other before filming began, and Boggle became our go-to pastime. We truly bonded over our love of games.”
The playful atmosphere surrounding their Boggle sessions took on a life of its own, with Levy revealing that the cast took their competitions seriously, complete with scorecards. “We created these hilarious ‘Big Mistakes Boggle’ scorecards. If I ever get the chance, I’d love to monetise that idea,” he joked.
When it came to determining the reigning champion of their Boggle games, Levy shyly conceded that it was most certainly not him. However, Metcalf firmly declared, “It’s you.” Despite their friendly banter, the consensus among the group was that the true champion was stylist Monique Gaffney, who consistently excelled in their game gatherings.
While games played a key role in fostering chemistry, Metcalf added that the nature of filming itself created an intense environment that facilitated closeness among the cast. “Making a show is an arduous experience from day one,” the veteran actress remarked. “The long hours spent together foster an immediate bond, pushing us to rely on one another not only during our scenes but also in supporting each other in moments outside of our performances.”
Ortega, who draws from her personal experiences with her own sister, felt that the familial communication depicted in “Big Mistakes” came quite naturally to her. “I come from a close-knit family, so I resonate with the way this family interacts. It felt very familiar and authentic,” she noted, contributing her own perspectives to the character of Morgan.
For Levy, the foundation of the cast’s strong chemistry rests on mutual trust as performers. He explained, “Every character faces significant emotional challenges and vulnerable moments throughout the series. To portray such intense scenes requires a level of immediate trust among the cast members.”
He continued, highlighting the importance of feeling supported in taking artistic risks. “There’s something extraordinary about stepping outside your comfort zone as an actor and receiving encouragement from your colleagues. It deepens the bonds between us.”
In addition to Levy, Metcalf, and Ortega, “Big Mistakes” boasts a talented ensemble cast, including Abby Quinn, Jack Innanen, Boran Kuzum, Jacob Gutierrez, Mark Ivanir, and Elizabeth Perkins. The series is now available for streaming on Netflix, ready to capture the hearts of audiences with its unique blend of humour and emotional depth.
As viewers dive into the complex world of “Big Mistakes,” they will witness not just the unfolding drama but also the genuine camaraderie that was forged behind the scenes—one game of Boggle at a time.
