Based on Georgia Hunter's novel, Hulu's mini-series, “We Were the Lucky Ones,” is an immersive journey of a Polish-Jewish family's gritty fight against adversity, spanning from 1937 to 1947. The story primarily unfolds through Halina (Joey King) and her pianist brother Addy (Logan Lerman).
Outlined in 8 gripping episodes, the family with affluent roots in Radom, Poland, faces the shattering reality of rising Nazism while we follow their lives. As the situation worsens, family members scatter across the globe, each with their unique survival narratives unfolding from South America to the Soviet Union.
Inspired by Barry Jenkins' "The Underground Railroad," the series underlines the unsettling truth that the Kurc family, like others, was never safe from the horrors of war and antisemitism, no matter where they went. However, their relentless spirit shines through, hinting at an inspiration to other families suffering similar fates.
Critics may note the series’ expository dialogues, but the meticulous historical detailing combined with engaging direction makes up for that. One particular scene where Mila (Hadas Yaron) and her daughter are made to dig their own graves stands out for its palpable tension and hints at the continuous dread and devastation that shroud the mini-series.
Keeping the series spoiler-free, but praising its performances, Joey King shines in a more mature role than her previous "Kissing Booth" franchise. Other notable performances include Hadas Yaron as resourceful mother Mila and Henry Lloyd-Hughes as Genek, who delivers a powerful transition from playboy to realist.
Despite the tragedy that continues to unfold, "We Were the Lucky Ones" ends on a hopeful note, recognizing survivors' melancholic relief and the pining for what will never be again. The emotional undercurrent doesn't undercut the series, rather it emphasizes the soul-shaking impact of displacement, dehumanization, and loss. The series premieres on Hulu on March 28th.
