We Were the Lucky Ones is an adaptation of my book of the same name. It follows my relatives, the Kurc family, as they scatter at the start of the Second World War, determined to survive and to reunite. The 8-part series spans nine years and four continents and is live now on Hulu and Disney+. My heart is full of awe and gratitude for the brilliant humans who have touched this project!
A conversation with Eva and Amit
Launching its Book-to-Series program, the Bruce Museum hosted a screening of the pilot of “We Were the Lucky Ones” preceded by a fascinating and heartfelt conversation with cast members Eva Feiler (Bella) and Amit Rahav (Jakob). The event, in partnership with the Avon Theatre and Diane’s Books, took place on April 19, 2026. Watch the…
“Talk to your elders”
Throwback to these interviews with the cast of “We Were the Lucky Ones,” focusing on the importance of seeking out stories from grandparents and other elders. What did it mean to Michael, Hadas, Robin, Henry, Amit, Logan, Joey and Sam to portray the Kurc family members? Find out here.
“Forces viewers to not look away”
“This 94% Rotten Tomatoes Hulu War Drama is a Must-See Hidden Gem” reads a recent headline on Collider, adding: “Praised for its realism and emotional storytelling, We Were the Lucky Ones tells a gripping tale in just eight episodes.” The writer notes the “personal point of view” of the family story and says that the series…
“Epic war series”
Thanks, Collider, for singling out “We Were the Lucky Ones” to top your list of “7 Epic War Miniseries Better Than Any Classic Movie.” And for noting the show’s “critical acclaim and high viewership, earning praise for its performances, narrative, and visceral story.” The full review and list are here.
“A thrilling drama”
The shooting locations for “We Were the Lucky Ones” in Romania and Spain were carefully selected “to accurately reproduce wartime circumstances,” per Filmloc. The article goes on to describe “massive sets” that “were built to represent World War II-era locations, demonstrating the production team’s commitment to detail and innovation.” Full story and more images here.
“Watch this”
Bob Lefsetz, in his popular newsletter, reflects on his personal experience watching the tv series. “You can feel the fear,” he writes. “That’s what makes the series so great.” He goes on to explain: “There’s a visceral quality that you’ll resonate with if you’re a Jew, certainly a boomer Jew. When you realize your possessions…
A Top Ten War TV Series
ScreenRant placed “We Were the Lucky Ones” at #4 in its list of “10 Best War TV Series that Everyone Should Watch at Least Once,” writing that it “succeeds in making its characters feel as real as the family they’re based on…” Full story (and the rest of the top 10) here.
“Unforgettable”
Fandomwire lists “We Were the Lucky Ones” among its pick of “5 Hulu Originals to Binge this Weekend,” noting that “The themes of family, love, and resilience in the face of horrifying circumstances make this show unforgettable.” Read more.
An “essential” show
Honored to be included in Collider’s list of the top ten most “essential” war series on TV – among such timeless classics as “Das Boot” and “Band of Brothers.” Collider explains: “We Were the Lucky Ones is an essential series about war because it highlights the human cost of war’s destruction.” The list features shows…
“Mama!”
One of my favorite moments during filming “We Were the Lucky Ones” was when Halina’s daughter Anna (in real life) met Joey, who played Halina in the series. Anna, who had flown to the set in Malaga from her home in Paris, approached Joey with a big smile and declared “Mama!” followed by hugs. Read…
