The remarkable Hulu series We Were the Lucky Ones has rapidly captured the hearts of viewers worldwide, bringing a fresh perspective to the harrowing era of World War II and the Holocaust. At the center of this emotional rollercoaster is the resilient and dynamic Joey King, whose portrayal of Halina Kurc is nothing short of breathtaking. King’s dedication to her role and the real-life story behind the series has sparked discussions across various platforms, emphasizing the importance of remembering and learning from history.
The series, adapted from Georgia Hunter’s best-selling book, intricately weaves the tale of the Kurc family, Polish Jews whose lives are upended by the onset of World War II. Spread across continents, their story is one of survival against all odds, a narrative that King believes is crucial for today’s audiences. “We haven’t seen this perspective,” King passionately shared, highlighting the uniqueness of the Kurc family’s journey. It’s a story that not only delves into the tragedy of the era but also celebrates the undying hope and joyous moments that shine through the darkest times.
King’s portrayal of Halina, the youngest Kurc child, is a tour de force. Bringing to life Halina’s vivacity, humor, and resilience, King navigates the complexities of her character with grace and authenticity. Halina’s journey from a lively young woman to a courageous survivor is depicted with sensitivity and depth. King’s interactions with Georgia Hunter, the author and granddaughter of Halina, provided invaluable insights that helped shape her portrayal. From detailed conversations to reading Hunter’s book, which King describes as a “Bible for all of us,” the actress immersed herself in Halina’s world.
The series does not shy away from the grim realities of the time, presenting the harshness of the Holocaust with unflinching honesty. Yet, amidst the sorrow, moments of warmth and humanity shine through. A particularly poignant scene involves Halina and Bella, her brother’s girlfriend, sharing a moment of normalcy and sisterhood, a testament to the enduring spirit of those who lived through the war. King’s appreciation for these moments of light amidst darkness is palpable, underscoring the series’ commitment to showcasing the full spectrum of human experience.
King’s journey into Halina’s world was further enriched by the detailed recreation of the era, from the historically accurate costumes to the elaborate hairstyles and vibrant red lipstick that defined women’s presentation in the 1940s. These physical extensions of Halina’s character were not just stylistic choices but powerful statements of identity and defiance. They served as a constant reminder of the strength and dignity of those who fought to maintain their humanity in the face of unimaginable horrors.
‘We Were the Lucky Ones’ stands as a powerful tribute to the Kurc family and the millions of others whose lives were forever altered by World War II. Through King’s compelling performance and the series’ thoughtful storytelling, viewers are invited to reflect on the resilience of the human spirit, the importance of family, and the capacity for hope to emerge even in the darkest of times.
The series, King hopes, will not only educate but inspire. In a world still grappling with the shadows of the past, We Were the Lucky Ones serves as a poignant reminder of the lessons history has taught us. It is a call to empathy, understanding, and, above all, the unyielding belief in the power of love and family to overcome the greatest of adversities.
Joey King’s journey in We Were the Lucky Ones is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. By bringing Halina Kurc’s story to life, King and the series’ creators have offered a beacon of light in a time of darkness, reminding us all of the incredible strength that lies within the human heart.
