No Good Deed Review: A Darkly Comedic Dive into Los Angeles Real Estate
Step into the world of No Good Deed, a Netflix series that takes a gripping look at the chaotic Los Angeles real estate market, blending dark humor with emotional turmoil. As a couple grapples with their haunted past, they must navigate the tricky waters of selling their home while hiding their secrets. This article explores the show’s premise, character dynamics, and its overall impact—perfect for anyone curious about this intriguing new offering.
A Quick Synopsis
In No Good Deed, we meet Paul (Ray Romano) and Lydia Morgan (Lisa Kudrow), a couple dealing with the aftermath of their son’s tragic death while trying to sell their beloved Spanish-style villa on Derby Drive. The series opens with an open house where potential buyers walk through their home, oblivious to the dark secrets lurking behind its walls. With each visitor, Paul and Lydia are determined to find the right family to take over their property, hoping to avoid their unsettling past from being unearthed. This darkly comedic premise sets the stage for a story filled with unexpected twists and emotional depth.
The Allure of Dark Comedy
No Good Deed initially captivates with its mix of humor and tragedy, reminiscent of shows like Desperate Housewives and Liz Feldman’s previous work, Dead To Me. The premise is ripe for exploration, especially as Paul and Lydia’s lives intertwine with eager buyers looking for their dream home. However, as the series unfolds, it becomes clear that while the potential is palpable, the execution falls flat.
Storyline and Pacing
The narrative centers on the Morgans’ attempts to sell their home, a symbol of their loss and the memories they are struggling to let go of. The series does well to touch upon their fractured relationship as they grapple with grief and the desire for a fresh start. Yet, the pacing stumbles with disjointed arcs and a lack of suspense that leaves many scenes feeling underwhelming. Flashbacks intended to add depth often feel more like distractions, pulling viewers away from the core emotional threads that could have added richness to the story.
Characters: A Mixed Bag
The performances of Romano and Kudrow shine through the script’s shortcomings. They delve into the complexities of Paul and Lydia’s marriage, showcasing their struggles in the wake of their son’s death. However, the supporting characters—though promising—often feel underdeveloped.
- Leslie (Abbi Jacobson) and Sarah (Poppy Liu) want to create a family in their new home, while Carla (Teyonah Parris) and Dennis (O-T Fagbenle) deal with familial pressures.
- JD (Luke Wilson), a washed-up soap star, adds a comedic flair, but the interactions among these characters lack the spark needed to elevate their storylines.
Linda Cardellini’s portrayal of Margo, JD’s manipulative wife, stands out with her sharp wit, giving viewers a delightful contrast to the Morgans’ somber narrative. However, even her character’s potential is stifled by a lack of meaningful arcs and resolutions.
Whodunit Woes
Perhaps the most disappointing aspect of No Good Deed is its whodunit element surrounding the death of Paul and Lydia’s son. The suspense builds throughout the series but ultimately leads to predictable outcomes that fail to deliver an emotional punch. The show touches on themes of belonging and the desire for a place to call home but does so with a clumsy narrative that leaves viewers craving more substance.
Conclusion
In summary, No Good Deed presents an intriguing premise that unfortunately stumbles in its execution. While the performances, particularly from Kudrow and Romano, are commendable, the uneven pacing, underdeveloped characters, and lackluster suspense detract from the overall impact. The series has moments of brilliance, particularly when it explores the Morgans’ grief, but these are often overshadowed by its chaotic structure. As a viewer, if you’re looking for a blend of dark humor and heartfelt storytelling, you might find some enjoyment here—but be prepared for a bumpy ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the release date for No Good Deed?
No Good Deed premieres on December 12 on Netflix.
2. Who stars in No Good Deed?
The series features Ray Romano, Lisa Kudrow, Linda Cardellini, Abbi Jacobson, and Luke Wilson.
3. What is the main theme of No Good Deed?
The series explores themes of grief, loss, and the complexities of relationships within the framework of dark comedy.
4. Is No Good Deed similar to Dead To Me?
Yes, it shares a similar tone and creator, but it struggles to achieve the same emotional depth and comedic flair.
5. How is the character development in No Good Deed?
While the leads have depth, many supporting characters feel underdeveloped and lack substantial arcs.
6. What genre does No Good Deed fall under?
No Good Deed is primarily a dark comedy series with elements of drama and mystery.
7. Are there any standout performances in the series?
Linda Cardellini stands out as Margo, showcasing a different side of her acting range compared to her role in Dead To Me.
8. How does the series handle its suspense elements?
The suspense surrounding the death of the Morgans’ son builds but ultimately leads to predictable outcomes.
9. Can I watch No Good Deed on platforms other than Netflix?
No Good Deed is exclusive to Netflix.
10. Is No Good Deed worth watching?
While it has its moments, viewers may find it a challenging investment due to its uneven storytelling.
Tags: No Good Deed, Netflix, Ray Romano, Lisa Kudrow, dark comedy, TV series review, streaming, emotional drama, Liz Feldman, real estate.