The opening shot of Fakes (2022) lingers on a stack of freshly printed fake IDs, their glossy surfaces catching the light like counterfeit promises. This visual metaphor sets the tone for David Turko’s crime-comedy series, which blends the exhilaration of teenage rebellion with the morally murky waters of entrepreneurship.

At its core, Fakes is a coming-of-age story wrapped in the trappings of a heist film. Teen best friends Zoe Christensen (Emilija Baranac) and Rebecca Li (Jennifer Tong) stumble into the business of forging IDs after a chance encounter with a disgruntled bouncer. What starts as a small-scale operation quickly spirals into a full-blown empire, complete with a network of suppliers, distributors, and increasingly desperate clients. The series’ strength lies in its ability to balance humor and tension, making the audience both root for Zoe and Becca’s success and cringe at their poor decisions.

The unreliable narrator technique is one of Fakes’ most compelling narrative choices. Each episode alternates between Zoe and Becca’s perspectives, offering conflicting viewpoints on the same events. This device not only adds depth to the characters but also keeps the audience on their toes. Richard Harmon’s performance as Tryst, a supporting character who is portrayed differently through each woman’s lens, is particularly noteworthy. His ability to adapt to the shifting interpretations of his role highlights the series’ creative ambition.

However, Fakes stumbles in its pacing and structural coherence. The series often feels like it’s juggling too many subplots, with some episodes devoting excessive screen time to minor characters or tangential storylines. While these diversions occasionally pay off, they more frequently disrupt the momentum of the central narrative. Additionally, the show’s cancellation after one season leaves several plot threads unresolved, which may frustrate viewers invested in the characters’ arcs.

The performances by Baranac and Tong are the series’ backbone. Their chemistry is palpable, and their ability to convey both the camaraderie and tension of a close friendship adds authenticity to the story. The supporting cast, including Eric Bempong as Ken and Matreya Scarrwener as Sally, also delivers strong performances, though they are sometimes overshadowed by the central duo.

In terms of originality, Fakes carves out a unique niche within the crime-comedy genre. It’s not just about the thrill of the con; it’s also a commentary on the pressures and expectations placed on young people. The series explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the blurred lines between right and wrong, all while maintaining a lighthearted tone.

The show’s setting in West Vancouver adds another layer of richness to its narrative fabric. The affluent yet insular community serves as both a backdrop and a character unto itself, reflecting the duality of Zoe and Becca’s lives. Their entrepreneurial venture is not just a rebellion against authority but also a commentary on the societal pressures that come with growing up in an environment where appearances often trump reality.

One highlight is the penultimate episode, where the narrative tension reaches a fever pitch as Zoe and Becca’s empire begins to crumble under the weight of their own lies.

The series also benefits from its dual distribution on CBC Gem in Canada and Netflix internationally, allowing it to reach a wide audience. This broad appeal is further enhanced by the show’s relatable themes and universally recognizable characters. Whether you’re a fan of crime dramas or coming-of-age stories, Fakes offers something for everyone.

However, the show’s cancellation after just one season is a missed opportunity. The unresolved plotlines and character arcs leave viewers with a sense of incompletion, which is particularly disappointing given the series’ potential. It’s worth noting that the show received critical acclaim, including two Canadian Screen Award nominations for Best Comedy Series and Best Picture Editing in a Children’s or Youth Program or Series (Sabrina Pitre). The Writer’s Guild of Canada also recognized it with two nominations for Best Writing in a Comedy Series in 2023.

In terms of genre fit, Fakes excels as a crime-comedy. It manages to blend the thrill of illegal activities with the humor and heart of teenage friendship. The series’ ability to balance these elements is a testament to Turko’s direction and the strong performances from its cast.

Ultimately, Fakes is a flawed but engaging series that offers plenty to appreciate for fans of crime comedies. Its unique narrative structure, compelling performances, and exploration of complex themes make it a standout in the genre.