Big Little Lies (2017)
The tale of three mothers of first graders whose apparently perfect lives unravel to the point of murder.
Details
First Air Date
2/19/2017
Last Air Date
7/21/2019
Network
HBO
Rating
8/10 (1511 votes)
Status
Ended
Production Companies
David E. Kelley Productions, Pacific Standard, Blossom Films, Crazyrose, Hello Sunshine, HBO
About Big Little Lies
Set in Monterey, California, "Big Little Lies" begins with a murder investigation, but the identity of the victim and the perpetrator are initially unknown. The series then unfolds the events leading up to this crime, focusing on the lives of three mothers—Madeline Martha Mackenzie, Celeste Wright, and Jane Chapman—whose children are all in the same first-grade class. What starts as everyday schoolyard drama escalates into something far more complex, revealing layers of personal struggles and secrets beneath the polished surfaces of their seemingly perfect lives.
The narrative explores themes of domestic abuse, infidelity, parenting, and female friendships. As the series delves into the characters' backgrounds, it uncovers hidden tensions and unresolved conflicts. The stories of these women, and the broader community they inhabit, gradually intertwine, building towards the pivotal event that changes everything.
The series features an ensemble cast, and its plot is adapted from a novel. It uses a murder mystery framework to explore deeper social and psychological issues, particularly around the experiences of women and the pressures of maintaining appearances in a wealthy coastal community. The unraveling of family secrets and the eventual cover-up become central to the unfolding drama.
Why you might be searching for Big Little Lies
People often search for "Big Little Lies" due to its ensemble cast, the central murder mystery, and its exploration of themes like domestic abuse and female solidarity. Its origins as a book adaptation and its setting in Monterey, California, also draw interest.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer, who had not read the book, found the first season to be a compelling mini-series with excellent casting, noting that the suspense was maintained until the final scene.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
You can stream "Big Little Lies" on HBO Max in the US. In the UK, it is available to watch on HBO Max via Sky. You also have the option to purchase the series on Amazon Video, Apple TV, or Fandango At Home.
"Big Little Lies" is not based on a true story. It is based on the 2014 novel of the same name by Liane Moriarty.
There are two seasons of "Big Little Lies," with 7 episodes in each season. A third season has been confirmed by Nicole Kidman, who also serves as an executive producer.
The first season of "Big Little Lies" has a 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising its humor, addictiveness, and cast. The second season has an 85% rating, with critics noting its dramatic elements and the performance of Meryl Streep.