Joey King and Logan Lerman: Unpacking Their Authentic ‘Brother-Sister’ Chemistry in Hulu’s ‘We Were the Lucky Ones’ – A Deep Dive into the Historical Drama

From the moment they appeared on screen, director Thomas Kail had a clear vision for the sibling dynamic between Joey King and Logan Lerman. “As soon as you saw them, we wanted you to say, ‘Oh yeah those are brother and sister,’” Kail shared with Hollywood Life, highlighting the immediate and undeniable bond he sought to establish between the two actors. This deliberate casting choice and the genuine chemistry between King and Lerman form the emotional core of Hulu’s poignant new miniseries, We Were the Lucky Ones.

Based on Georgia Hunter’s critically acclaimed New York Times bestselling novel of the same name, We Were the Lucky Ones reunites Joey King and Logan Lerman, who previously shared the screen in Bullet Train. However, their roles in this historical drama are profoundly different, demanding a depth and intimacy that speaks volumes about their craft. As Addy and Halina, a brother and sister navigating the unimaginable horrors of World War II and the Holocaust, their performances have been lauded as “phenomenal” by author Georgia Hunter herself. In an exclusive video interview with Hollywood Life, Hunter emphasized the extraordinary talent her cast brought to the series.

“They’re just phenomenal. Our entire cast is phenomenal, and I’m really proud of the fact that our entire cast is also Jewish,” Georgia explained, underscoring a crucial element of the show’s authenticity and emotional resonance. “And I think because of that, they related on very personal ways to their characters. Halina and Addy, they each have their own stories that relate to the Holocaust and their own family histories, and I was so excited for them to bring that personal connection to their roles. … I can’t speak highly enough of Joey and our entire cast.” This deep, personal understanding of the material allowed the actors to imbue their characters with a raw honesty and vulnerability that transcends mere performance, making the Kurc family’s struggle feel incredibly real and deeply moving for viewers.

The miniseries, We Were the Lucky Ones, is not merely a work of historical fiction; it is loosely inspired by the harrowing yet ultimately hopeful real story of Georgia Hunter’s own family, tracing their journey from the 1930s through the tumultuous years of World War II. It’s a powerful narrative of survival, resilience, and the enduring strength of familial bonds against the backdrop of one of humanity’s darkest periods. The adaptation aims to bring this extraordinary true story to a wider audience, ensuring that the lessons and experiences of the Holocaust are never forgotten.

At the heart of this epic narrative are Joey and Logan’s characters, Halina and Addy Kurc. They are integral members of the Kurc family, a Polish Jewish family whose initial success and comfortable livelihood provided a temporary shield against the brutal antisemitism that began to sweep across Europe even before the full onset of World War II. However, as Hitler’s cruel regime tightened its grip, the family’s fortunes drastically changed. Some members of the Kurc family were forced into perilous hiding, while others tragically found themselves imprisoned in concentration camps. The war’s devastating impact led to their separation across continents, setting in motion a desperate and arduous quest to locate any living relatives, a testament to their unwavering hope and familial devotion.

The profound caliber and wisdom that both Joey, 24, and Logan, 32, brought to the set were a constant source of admiration for director Thomas Kail. During his exclusive interview with Hollywood Life, Kail spoke extensively about their invaluable contributions beyond just acting. Their presence and dedication set a high standard for the entire production, reflecting their deep understanding of the sensitive subject matter and their roles within it.

“Joey really responded to the material very early on and was the first person to say that she wanted to join,” Thomas pointed out, highlighting King’s immediate connection to the story. This early commitment was crucial in shaping the project. He further elaborated on the existing rapport between the two stars: “And she and Logan knew each other just from around having both being doing this for a long time. And they worked together briefly. There was a fundamental understanding that they had about each other that felt already like a very legitimate bond.” This pre-existing relationship, forged through years in the industry and a shared professional respect, proved to be an invaluable asset in portraying the intricate and deeply emotional sibling dynamic between Halina and Addy. It allowed them to tap into a genuine comfort and understanding, making their on-screen relationship feel authentic and deeply rooted.

Thomas Kail further emphasized that the “deep expertise and excellence in their craft” of both the Kissing Boothactress and the Percy Jackson & the Olympians actor were palpable. He noted that their professionalism and talent could be felt the moment they walked into a room or stepped onto the set, instantly elevating the atmosphere and the quality of the work. Both King and Lerman have carved out impressive careers, transitioning seamlessly from young adult franchises to more mature, demanding roles. This extensive experience has not only honed their acting skills but also fostered a profound understanding of storytelling and character development, which is evident in their nuanced portrayals within We Were the Lucky Ones.

“They’re just sky-high level talent,” Kail added, recognizing their exceptional abilities. He also highlighted their leadership qualities: “They’ve also had a ton of experience. They are interested in being leaders.” This willingness to take initiative and set an example for the rest of the cast and crew speaks volumes about their professionalism and commitment. It’s this combination of raw talent, vast experience, and leadership that enabled them to so effectively embody the complex relationship between Addy and Halina. Kail concluded by reiterating his initial goal: “As soon as you saw them, we wanted you to say, ‘Oh yeah those are brother and sister.'” This objective was clearly met, as audiences are drawn into their believable and deeply felt sibling bond, which forms an anchor in the storm of the family’s trials.

The meticulous attention to detail in portraying the Kurc family saga extends beyond the lead actors to the entire ensemble and the production design. The series delves into the harrowing realities faced by Jewish families during World War II, showcasing their resilience in the face of unimaginable persecution. From the bustling pre-war life in Radom, Poland, to the stark terror of ghettos, forced labor, and displacement, We Were the Lucky Ones paints a vivid, albeit painful, picture of history. The miniseries highlights the individual choices and sacrifices made by each family member as they scatter across the globe, united by a desperate hope of reunification. It’s a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for endurance and the powerful instinct to protect and find one’s loved ones, even when all odds are stacked against them. The show masterfully balances moments of profound despair with glimmers of hope and courage, making it a truly immersive historical experience.

Beyond its historical accuracy, the series resonates deeply with contemporary audiences by exploring universal themes such as identity, memory, and the enduring power of hope. It serves as a vital reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust, ensuring that new generations understand the importance of vigilance against hatred and discrimination. The story of the Kurc family, through the lens of Georgia Hunter’s careful research and the poignant performances of its cast, becomes a beacon of human resilience. It underscores the idea that even in the darkest times, the bonds of family and the unyielding will to survive can lead to extraordinary outcomes. The show prompts reflection on the definition of ‘luck’ in such circumstances – is it merely survival, or finding love and connection amidst the chaos?

Director Thomas Kail’s vision for We Were the Lucky Ones was not just to recount historical events, but to tell a deeply personal and emotional story that connects viewers to the human cost of war. His ability to guide such a talented cast, particularly Joey King and Logan Lerman, in delivering nuanced and authentic performances, is a testament to his directorial prowess. The miniseries is a significant undertaking, demanding both historical integrity and profound emotional depth, and Kail, along with the entire creative team, has delivered a powerful and unforgettable narrative. The commitment of every person involved, from the writers to the costume designers, is evident in the show’s high production values and its immersive storytelling.

We Were the Lucky Ones is more than just a historical drama; it’s a vital piece of television that celebrates the strength of family, the resilience of the human spirit, and the enduring importance of remembering our past. The compelling performances from Joey King and Logan Lerman, alongside their exceptional co-stars, make this miniseries a must-watch for anyone seeking a story that is both harrowing and profoundly hopeful. It invites viewers to witness an extraordinary journey of survival and to reflect on the meaning of family and perseverance in the face of unimaginable adversity. The emotional weight and historical significance of the series are bound to leave a lasting impact on audiences.

Be sure to mark your calendars: the first three episodes of We Were the Lucky Ones premiered on Hulu on Thursday, March 28, offering an immediate deep dive into this incredible and moving story.