An absolutely entertaining uncomfortable wonderful show with great actors. I went through almost the same situation and its comforting to know that it happens all over the world and is not unique to me or the US.
46 Reviews
Another NFLX Homerun
bshaef26 July 2018
Great depiction of modern family life in Sweden/Europe
bertvleeuwen-646-65083221 July 2019
I binge watched most of the three series on Netflix. The series shows a couple, their exes and the children from their respective relationships. The newly gained children or parents are not called stepson or stepmother, but bonus-son or bonus-mother. Other than this politically correct streak, any issue that might arise in these circumstances comes round: a child with ADHD, adolescent moods, exes still being in love, grandparents barging in etc. And these are dealt with in a modern way, i.e. not judgemental, but also not always very efficient.
I loved the realistic display or people changing their mind on both rational (not often) and emotional grounds as well as the unlikely couples (as in life): the 'anally retentive' math teacher with the liberal, artsy mother; the career-wise not very successful man, still living in with this mother, getting the most balanced wife (with a complicated family) and the rather spoilt children growing up and dealing with/exploiting their having to live (part of the time) with all their parents and their bonus siblings. And last but not least, the peculiar therapists couple that is called for frequently.
The negative reviews you might encounter here, to me demonstrate that the show is so realistic that some people start to criticise the characters' actions (as morally or otherwise corrupt).
Especially after the cliff hanger of the third season, I hope Netflix will commission the fourth series. I will certainly watch it.
Big Irish Fan
vickerthelegend16 July 2018
Top notch show that will not disappoint you for a single second
veo2 July 2017
First of all, do not get deterred by the fact that it is Swedish: it has nothing of the dry, coward European cinema. The subject itself is nothing new: the problems of a recent couple along with problems of their children, ex-partners, new partners of their ex-partners. But it is so brilliantly written and perfectly played, it doesn't let you down for a single episode. It a shows about serious matters (family, commitment, divorce, kids...) but approached with a great sense of humor and (rare thing) really funny jokes. It also has great characters and witty comebacks that make it a hidden gem that I hope Hollywood will never remake.
Great series.
vs2320 July 2019
Just a couple of things: The negative or lukewarm reviews here seem to do mostly with people claiming offense at the living arrangements. But this sort of mixed and complex family configuration, which can be found in many contemporary societies, is precisely what the positive term "bonus family" indicates. If you're priggish about contemporary family practices, then don't watch a series whose very title gives you advance warning of what it deals with.
Second, this is absolutely not a Scandinavian version of Modern Family. Except for the general framing of contemporary cross families that have become common with the availability of divorce, there are no similarities between the two series. Indeed, to think that there are is reductionistic and even carries a whiff of ethnocentrism as Bonus Family is much better than Modern Family and not just a rip off but a highly original work that stands on its own merits.
Third, while I share the exasperation with the Eddie character and agree that he is a horrible spoiled brat, he really doesn't take up that much screen time and his presence simply injects a very realistic dimension to the intertwined family lives. No one should not watch the series just for a single character.
Second, this is absolutely not a Scandinavian version of Modern Family. Except for the general framing of contemporary cross families that have become common with the availability of divorce, there are no similarities between the two series. Indeed, to think that there are is reductionistic and even carries a whiff of ethnocentrism as Bonus Family is much better than Modern Family and not just a rip off but a highly original work that stands on its own merits.
Third, while I share the exasperation with the Eddie character and agree that he is a horrible spoiled brat, he really doesn't take up that much screen time and his presence simply injects a very realistic dimension to the intertwined family lives. No one should not watch the series just for a single character.
Entertaining, but...
jessewriter13 July 2019
I just hate Lisa
tsi8217 October 2021
Parenting or lack thereof
katebalsarapardoe-4670120 January 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Bonus Family makes me wonder: is this typical parenting in Sweden or is this just for drama? Both Martin and Eddie are classic examples of males cosseted by their mothers into permanent childhood.
Eddie burns down a home but of course it's not his fault. In fact, why is his father refusing to buy him new shoes, even though his actions could bankrupt the family? Martin lurches from one disastrous decision to another, always to fall back into his mother's arms. Lisa convinces Patrik to ignore his fiduciary duty as executor of his father's estate and to remove funds from his own son's account, so her children benefit (illegally!). Her daughter throws a party at their house, the place gets trashed but the outrage is reserved for the placement of a security camera that records her actions. The few times when the parents call out the children for their bad behaviour, these are immediately followed by abject apologies made to the child!! The children play one parent off the other constantly and the parents are like ping pong balls.
Henrik is the stellar opposite, with a good balance of honest and open communication with his stepson.
Really miss the original actor playing Katya.
Eddie burns down a home but of course it's not his fault. In fact, why is his father refusing to buy him new shoes, even though his actions could bankrupt the family? Martin lurches from one disastrous decision to another, always to fall back into his mother's arms. Lisa convinces Patrik to ignore his fiduciary duty as executor of his father's estate and to remove funds from his own son's account, so her children benefit (illegally!). Her daughter throws a party at their house, the place gets trashed but the outrage is reserved for the placement of a security camera that records her actions. The few times when the parents call out the children for their bad behaviour, these are immediately followed by abject apologies made to the child!! The children play one parent off the other constantly and the parents are like ping pong balls.
Henrik is the stellar opposite, with a good balance of honest and open communication with his stepson.
Really miss the original actor playing Katya.
Entertaining but sometimes painful to watch
brockmuellerjens30 December 2020
While I couldn't stop myself from binge watching all three seasons, the second hand embarassment and anger I felt towards the character of Lisa made my blood boil. She might be the most annoying movie/TV character since Forrest Gumps Jenny.
A unique drama series, haven't regretted a single second watching it!
leonidasvergiotis27 August 2018
It's not a stereotypical drama series, I understood that from the first episode. The direction, the script, the actors, everything is so well executed that it makes bonusfamiljen unforgettable. The plot has so many twists and lessons that makes you empathy every single personality. I would recommend it to everybody, one of the best series I've ever watched!
Some really good acting here but frustrating!
Casino-Royale30 September 2020
Eddie. Eddie Eddie Eddie.
Clearly Frank Dorsin has a real future in acting given that I haven't found or seen any comments where anyone actually likes his character. Eddie is the biggest pain in the neck EVER.
But actually so painful he ruins many episodes.
I just hope Frank hasn't been typecast!
I think this could be a real go to series every week... but without Eddie. The rest of the characters are likeable and you can really see where the writers are coming from.
Clearly Frank Dorsin has a real future in acting given that I haven't found or seen any comments where anyone actually likes his character. Eddie is the biggest pain in the neck EVER.
But actually so painful he ruins many episodes.
I just hope Frank hasn't been typecast!
I think this could be a real go to series every week... but without Eddie. The rest of the characters are likeable and you can really see where the writers are coming from.
THE BEST SHOW EVER
deesestone10 February 2020
This show is incredibly good, it is so real that it transcends language and geographical differences. It is funny, sad, moving, relevant -- everything together but not sappy like so many of these family dramas can be. I loved every minute of it and wanted more when it finished. The fact that it is Swedish does not make it any less relatable -- it makes it even better because we get a glimpse into a country and culture that we read about and know as almost a Utopia, with all their social benefits, great education system, open attitude -- and we see them with problems that everyone has at the same time as being able to appreciate what a great country it is. Please whoever is out there who has power over this series, renew, renew, renew!!!!!!!!!!!!
I liked season 1, but I took 3 stars off for season 2
LucyBonette25 November 2019
While it's interesting to see modern and complex family dynamics, quite a few characters have really started to grate on me, especially Lisa, who seems to have no social boundaries and pushes her will and kids on everyone. And it's not as if she's got easy going kids.
In season 2, even the sensible people make weird and stupid decisions and they force all of that on their ill behaved kids. It just gets very difficult to watch after a while.
It's a No for me now. I cannot keep it up anymore.
In season 2, even the sensible people make weird and stupid decisions and they force all of that on their ill behaved kids. It just gets very difficult to watch after a while.
It's a No for me now. I cannot keep it up anymore.
The character Eddie makes the show almost unbearable to watch
apes-3037514 August 2018
Unfortunately I think it is a very good show. However many times I have wanted to stop watching because although the writing, characters, and story line are very well done. "Eddie" is an out of control horrible spoilt and undisciplined brat. With a bad attitude and foul mouth on him. He is a bully he is rude and and is a complete and utterly annoying iratation to watch. ABOSUTELY DREADFUL!!!! And the parenting or complete lack of it I find disgusting. The adults come across as mindless fools when it comes to Eddie with their reactions or lack there of are outrageously unbelievable. Everyone I have ever spoke to shares the same opinion, the characteristics of Eddie are so off putting and unacceptable that they are the reason many people have or are considering to stop watching the show
Lovely to watch
rmuije17 July 2019
As an Dutch expat living in Spain I watch this Swedish serie via Netflix. This Swedish family gives me such a good feeling. It makes me feel easy. I love it to watch. I hope many episodes will follow then the 3 I have seen till so far.
a really good show about regular people
gandalf-8049619 August 2019
Finally there is a series that is NOT about drugs, drug lords, gangsters, the mob, nasty politics or vicious people who prey on others. this is a well done, nicely acted, well written/directed human story about modern living and the trials/tribulations that come with it and how not rich people evolve in making life good decisions. many situations are fully recognizable and give one a good perspective on their lives. i would have to agree that the parenting is really rather poor. both eddie and Bianca are selfish, lazy, foul-mouthed and totally undisciplined. it seems the fathers have the right idea but acquiesce to the mothers. the third season left me hanging, so i hope there is another.
How NOT to parent
reynard_37 June 2021
I normally love Scandinavian shows, especially Swedish but this show is a horror show disguised as a dramedy. Zero good parenting; Uber selfish and immature adults and, William aside, nightmare children. Especially Eddie. Everybody is selfish, stupid, self absorbed and have no empathy. None. Not an ounce of sympathy for anyone other than themselves. The opposite of your usual "Nordic" show. Ship Eddie to Ireland, he'll shape up right quick.
Confusing to say the least..
alicemay201321 January 2019
I wanted something that would be an easy watch in order to progress with my Swedish better, but that's as enthused as I am with the programme. There's no definitive storyline, and it almost seems like the writers tried to really stretch out the content they had for each episode. Added parts to the story seem pointless - like Martin's mum and Gugge, Katja's relationship with the office guy. None of it really gels together well enough for it to be significant or make much sense. I'm currently episode 2 of season 2, so will continue to give the benefit of the doubt. Lengthy and can be slow at times, but overall an easy watch.
Swedish version of "Modern Family"
qui_j23 October 2017
This is a well written, funny version of "Modern Family". Because it is set in a different culture, it has its own originality. If you are not familiar with Scandinavian culture and their way of thinking, you probably may not relate well to the plot. The story revolves around a family of "exes", who have changed partners and are trying to make the change in family life and dynamics a workable one. There is the attempt to maintain old relationships so as not to radically change the family dynamics, all this while trying to make new relationships work. The acting is very good, and the issues associated with each character really comes through....no holds barred! The sexually liberated themes may not sit well with more prudish audiences but it is a reality in that culture where sexual activity and education starts early, and is regarded as a natural bodily function that is openly discussed. The subtitle translation is well done in "modern" English, and this fits well with the current way of conversing in today's world. Overall, it's a great series and I hope there will be a second season shown here in the US.
Season 1&2 were great but then...
jataheinonen11 October 2019
First two seasons were great and I just loved the show, would give 9 stars for them, but something happened in season 3. They somehow lost the touch, and it wasen't the same again, story line and characters become more like unreal and even irritating.
Top notch rarity - a dramedy that is actually funny!
nooshie-3314212 February 2021
I don't do "dramedy". Usually neither funny enough nor dramatic enough for my taste. However, I had run out of my usual Nordic Noir dramas and thought I'd give this a try. I have Swedish heritage but have never lived in Sweden so this wonderful show gives you a rare insight into family life in modern Sweden. It's not much different to anywhere else in the world and what we call a "blended family" in the UK, Sweden calls a "bonus family". The lives, loves, family spats, growing pains and complicated family dynamics are all here to be laughed at and sometimes cried at. This show has phenomenal acting, realistic plotting and great characters. I love them all and can identify with their struggles, triumphs and embarrassments, in work and out, at home, school and socially. It really is a "slice of life" that never hits a false note and is often laugh out loud funny. The ensemble cast is brilliant across the board and the three kids are played wonderfully by the young actors who are as obnoxious and lovable as any kids in the real world. Don't let the fact this is a European show put you off, as it's one of the best family comedy dramas that I have ever seen.
Vad ? förlåt, förlåt, förlåt - drinking game (seasons 1 to 4)
mguptauwaterloo17 December 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I get it. Families are messy. People are stubborn. People are creatures of habit. I finished this because I just wanted to see it through. It's good but not more than a 6 or 7.
You could create a drinking game about how many times everyone says "vad?" And "förlåt" which are my new favourite Swedish words.
Everyone gets quite annoying after some time because they don't change. Usually a character evolves in a series. The way they are in the beginning is the way they are in the end.
The kids continue to be kids even as they become adults. Cheaters remain cheaters. Everyone commits the same mistakes over all seasons, then when accused they say "vad?" And then eventually apologize.
The characters you see in season 1 remain almost identical to season 4. I didn't feel the depth. Ah well, something to watch.
You could create a drinking game about how many times everyone says "vad?" And "förlåt" which are my new favourite Swedish words.
Everyone gets quite annoying after some time because they don't change. Usually a character evolves in a series. The way they are in the beginning is the way they are in the end.
The kids continue to be kids even as they become adults. Cheaters remain cheaters. Everyone commits the same mistakes over all seasons, then when accused they say "vad?" And then eventually apologize.
The characters you see in season 1 remain almost identical to season 4. I didn't feel the depth. Ah well, something to watch.
Emotional Family Drama Done Well
dianne0024 July 2019
I wasn't sure I believed this series could deserve all the awards it's won according to IMDB, but it's not long after watching that you realize that this is really good drama. I loved it and spent the whole week binging on all three seasons, it was like spending a week with family, although family dramas are not my favorite genre. I generally prefer more mystery, intrigue or a good who-dun-it, but I found this to be as good as the U.S.'s This Is Us, completely different stories to tell, but an emotional roller-coaster for us the viewers as they bring our own emotions to the surface. Even the subtitles which can make or break the experience of watching something in a foreign language were spot on. In fact, everything was spot on; the acting, the editing and the directing. Thanks Netflix, I would expect to see this on Masterpiece, well done.
Ran Out of Steam
crumpytv14 June 2020
Warning: Spoilers
Really enjoyed series 1&2.
Parenting and attitude of Lisa, diabolical to say the least. I can't really see how Patrik would have stuck with her.
Her son's issues are never really addressed and he is an obnoxious brat (well acted though). Her daughter is manipulative and deceitful, always gets found out, but the viewers never get to see how she is dealt with, if at all.
Series 3. Just not cogent. Having got used to the characters in the first 2 series there were distinct character attitude differences, particularly for Katya, William and Lisa.
This series just seemed to be too contrived in order to make the family dynamics even more complicated.
Between series 2 and 3 Lisa had an abortion. In the last episode of series 3 she is faced with the same prospect and yet asks what to expect. Having already had one she would have known. Just an example of how things never really added up in this series.
Horrible parenting
Daniela Raiti12 October 2018
Its like watching a horror film, the complete lack of parenting its just horrible. I may stop watching because found unbearable how Lisa allows his son and daughter to disrespect Patrick, who may be a particular kind of masochist because the life he has with his bonus family its just awful. His kid suffers too, he is kind of a second class citizen, what makes Patrick a bad father as well, but not the point of Lisa. She is also a very disrespectful partner and wife. She alerts him she is a very difficult person while pregnant, so I started second season hoping to see some humanity in her, but she is just the same b***c pregnant or not. In their own words, they are white trash and there is a limit of trash that I can see. The acting its excellent, that's why I may stop watching, it upsets me seen that the most mature advise this parent gets comes from their 15 years old girl. By the way, I may miss how they approach the theme of ADD since so far it has been just ignoring it, and its sad the producers may miss the opportunity to show some light into it, that they are many options before medication that gives tools to whom suffer because of it. Maybe in the future episodes they will address that but I think there is only so much suffering, unlike Patrick, that I can take. The most fun comes from the therapist couple, almost as dysfunctional as the bonus family, but at least they made me smile and not scream.
See also
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