Looking for something intriguing and enjoyable for your holiday viewing? Netflix has just the perfect treat for you. You won’t even need to tackle the dishes afterward!
From Liz Feldman, the creative mind behind “Dead to Me,” comes “No Good Deed,” currently streaming and earning a solid ★★★½ out of four. This new series captures Feldman’s signature blend of quirky and dark humor seen in her Emmy-winning black comedy while embarking on a multi-layered mystery wrapped in deceit and danger, all set against the backdrop of the Los Angeles real estate market.
The show skillfully combines elements of a whodunit with a deeper exploration of marriage and the resilience of relationships in the face of lies and trauma. With clever writing and a captivating ensemble cast, “No Good Deed” offers a delightful mix of humor, creating a compelling narrative that keeps viewers engaged.
Set in a gorgeous 1920s Spanish-style house in Los Feliz, the series introduces us to Lydia (Lisa Kudrow) and Paul (Ray Romano), a quarreling couple burdened by financial struggles and a significant secret. As the story unfolds, we meet several potential buyers: power couple Sarah (Poppy Liu) and Leslie (Abbi Jacobson), who are trying to fill the void left by infertility; Carla (Teyonah Parris) and Dennis (O-T Fagbenle), who are in desperate need of a larger home before their baby arrives; and JD (Luke Wilson) and Margo (Linda Cardellini), a couple looking to downsize. The drama intensifies with the arrival of Mikey (Denis Leary), an unexpected visitor from Lydia and Paul’s past.
The competitive housing market serves as a fitting backdrop for themes of potential murder and chaos, delivering moments where characters must navigate unexpected encounters, fueling humorous situations.
Though “No Good Deed” has a multitude of characters and intertwining plots, Feldman expertly brings these threads together into a cohesive narrative. Viewers can trust that by the end of the eight-episode series, the mysteries will be unraveled, leaving a pleasing sense of closure and satisfaction from binge-watching.
The ensemble is a nostalgic treat, showcasing beloved actors from shows like “Friends” and “Everybody Loves Raymond,” yet it’s the millennial cast members, particularly Jacobson and Fagbenle, who shine brightest in delivering laughs.
With so many unexpected twists and turns, it’s hard to dive too deep into the plot without giving away too much. But one thing is for sure: there’s never a dull moment.
While “No Good Deed” may not magically solve your relationship challenges or housing concerns, it promises to provide a delightful dose of entertainment just when you need it most.
In summary, this series is a brilliant testament to how humor and mystery can intertwine, creating a binge-worthy experience that resonates with viewers, particularly during festive times when people seek warmth and laughter. It’s a reminder that even amid chaos, we can find joy in storytelling.