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Creators: Lewis Morton
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1 season, 10 episodes
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In the world of television, where shows come and go like seasons, some leave a lasting impact, while others fade into obscurity. “Big Lake” falls into a unique category of its own. Premiering in 2010, this Comedy Central series aimed to bring laughs with its unique premise and cast. Yet, despite its potential, “Big Lake” remains a blip on the vast radar of TV history. Let’s explore what made “Big Lake” what it was, its highs and lows, and why it’s worth remembering—or discovering—for any TV show aficionado.
The Premise
At its core, “Big Lake” was a straightforward comedy. The plot revolves around Josh Franklin, played by Chris Gethard, a young man who returns to his hometown after a disastrous stint in the big city. With dreams shattered and tail between his legs, Josh moves back into his parents’ house in Big Lake, Pennsylvania. The show centers on Josh’s attempts to turn his life around with the help of his two friends, the burnout Lee (played by Jorma Taccone) and the disgraced former teacher Chris (played by Horatio Sanz).
Cast and Characters
One of “Big Lake”‘s strengths was its cast. Chris Gethard, though not a household name, brought an everyman charm to Josh. His portrayal of a man beaten down by life but still hopeful was relatable. Jorma Taccone, better known for his work with The Lonely Island, provided a dose of absurdity and energy as Lee. Horatio Sanz, a “Saturday Night Live” alum, delivered his trademark humor in the role of Chris. The chemistry among the trio was a highlight, their interactions a mix of despair, humor, and the absurdity of their situations.
The supporting cast, including Deborah Rush and James Rebhorn as Josh’s parents, added depth and further comedy to the show. Their portrayal of parents dealing with their adult son’s return home, with a mix of love and frustration, was spot-on.
The Humor
“Big Lake” aimed for a blend of situational comedy and character-driven humor. Much of the comedy came from the trio’s harebrained schemes to make money or improve their lives, often leading to disastrous yet humorous outcomes. The show didn’t shy away from absurdity, but it was grounded by the characters’ genuine (if misguided) intentions.
Reception and Challenges
Despite its potential and moments of comedic brilliance, “Big Lake” struggled to find a broad audience. The show’s reception was mixed, with critics praising the cast’s performances but often criticizing the show’s inconsistent tone and pacing. In a television landscape crowded with sitcoms, “Big Lake” had a hard time standing out.
One of the challenges “Big Lake” faced was its timing. Premiering in 2010, it was in the midst of a transitional period for TV comedy. The rise of streaming platforms and the changing tastes of audiences made it a tough time for new sitcoms on cable networks. “Big Lake” was competing not just with other TV shows but with an entire online world of content.
Why It’s Worth Remembering
Despite its short run and mixed reception, “Big Lake” is worth remembering for several reasons. First, it’s a snapshot of a specific time in television comedy, bridging the gap between traditional sitcoms and the more diverse, experimental comedies that would follow. It represents a moment when creators were willing to take risks, even if they didn’t always pay off.
Second, the show’s humor, while not for everyone, had moments of brilliance. The absurdity of its scenarios and the genuine chemistry among the cast provided genuine laughs. For fans of comedy, “Big Lake” offers a glimpse into the comedic talents of its cast, particularly Chris Gethard, who would go on to carve out a niche in the comedy world.
Lastly, “Big Lake” serves as a reminder of the challenges new shows face in finding an audience. It’s a case study in the unpredictable nature of television, where a show with potential can struggle to make an impact.
Conclusion
“Big Lake” may not have been a hit, but it wasn’t a complete miss either. It was a show with potential, hampered by timing and a crowded TV landscape. For those willing to give it a chance, “Big Lake” offers laughs, a bit of nostalgia, and a reminder of the risks and rewards of television production. It’s a show that, while not groundbreaking, is a charming footnote in the vast catalog of TV comedies.