A variety of genres come to mind when audiences think of a documentary, and mockumentary is usually not one of them. “American Vandal” is a show similar to Netflix’s popular true crime documentary “Making a Murderer,” but the format is where the similarities end.

The series follows the story of Dylan Maxwell, and the mystery of a high school prank which left phallic images on an abundance of cars in the faculty parking lot. “American Vandal” started streaming Sept. 15 on Netflix.

The series introduces viewers to a variety of memorable characters who all have some sort of connection to both Dylan and the vandalism, as well as interesting insight on the event. The inciting incident is Dylan’s expulsion from school after he is accused of drawing the inappropriate images. He is followed by Peter Maldonado, an amateur filmmaker looking to find the answer to one question – was Dylan Maxwell behind the vandalism or was he framed?

Although the series has a serious title, its subject matter is anything but solemn. The show is filled with sophomoric humor that is subtly balanced by shifts of tone. The show is a parody of documentaries, but still offers a thought-provoking narrative and enough suspects that audiences will actually be invested in the show’s mystery.

The cast performances are a highpoint for the show. Each actor executed their role perfectly and they act like they belong in high school. “American Vandal” features actors from well-known avenues such as Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and YouTube.

Before watching the series, it was concerning how the show would stretch one prank across eight episodes and still make it compelling. Luckily, “American Vandal” succeeds in keeping the audience’s attention whether it be through the actual story, memorable dialogue or the way the show is executed through its fourth wall breaks.

While many aspects of “American Vandal” are well above average, the overall package feels lacking. Some jokes are told over and over again and although it is a satire, the plot is not always as compelling as it thinks. The characters are intriguing but their potential is wasted on a prank narrative stretched too far.

Regardless, “American Vandal” is filled with plenty of great moments including funny witness accounts, Maxwell’s antics and Maldonado’s documentary going viral.

“American Vandal” gets a solid four out of five stars. People liken the show to a diamond in the rough. Although there are both good and bad aspects, the show is entertaining enough that audiences will binge all eight episodes without even realizing!