Watch Bonus Family

Bonus Family is a Swedish comedy-drama television series that premiered on Netflix in 2017. The show explores the complexities and challenges of modern-day family dynamics, particularly in the context of blended families. The story revolves around four main characters: Lisa (played by Vera Vitali), her ex-husband Patrik (played by Erik Johansson), Patrik's new girlfriend Katja (played by Petra Mede), and Lisa's new boyfriend Martin (played by Fredrik Hallgren). The series begins with Lisa and Patrik's divorce and the ensuing custody battle over their children. Despite the acrimony between Lisa and Patrik, they are committed to co-parenting their children and eventually become friends. As they begin to navigate their new dynamic, they are each confronted with new challenges in their personal lives.

One of the central themes of the show is the tension that arises when a new partner is introduced into a family. Katja, Patrik's new girlfriend, struggles to find her place in the family and is met with skepticism from Lisa and the children. Martin, Lisa's new boyfriend, faces similar challenges as he tries to establish a relationship with her children while respecting Patrik's role as their father.

Bonus Family also explores the challenges of co-parenting and the impact that separation and divorce can have on children. Lisa and Patrik's children, Eddie and William, are deeply affected by their parents' divorce and struggle to adjust to their new family dynamic. Their behavior becomes increasingly problematic as they act out in response to the changes in their lives.

Throughout the series, the characters are forced to confront their own flaws and failures as they try to navigate their relationships with each other. Lisa grapples with her own insecurities and inability to let go of past hurts, while Patrik struggles to balance his responsibilities as a father with his desire to move on with his life. Katja and Martin both struggle to find their place in the family and to establish meaningful relationships with the children.

Despite the challenges they face, the characters are ultimately able to come together and form a new kind of family. They learn to support each other through the ups and downs of life and to put the needs of the children first.

Bonus Family is a thoughtful and engaging exploration of the complexities of modern-day family dynamics. The show is anchored by a talented cast and deftly balances humor and drama to create a nuanced and relatable depiction of life in a blended family. With its compelling storylines and well-drawn characters, Bonus Family is a must-watch for anyone who has ever been part of a family.

Bonus Family is a series that ran for 4 seasons (38 episodes) between January 30, 2017 and on Netflix