The Real Brothers Behind the Bong: Unmasking “Family Business”

Forget the smoke and mirrors, let’s cut straight to the chase. The heart of “Family Business,” that darkly comedic French series about a kosher butcher shop turned weed dispensary, beats with the rhythm of a deeply intertwined, albeit fictional, familial bond. But when viewers ask “Who are the real brothers on ‘Family Business’?”, the answer is a bit more nuanced than just a simple on-screen sibling rivalry. While the series boasts incredible chemistry between its cast, the only “real” brothers are those portrayed on-screen: Joseph Hazan, played with manic energy by Jonathan Cohen, and Aure Hazan, brought to life with endearing awkwardness by Gérard Darmon. The entire premise hinges on their (and the rest of their family’s) transformation from purveyors of prime cuts to peddlers of potent product.

Delving Deeper into the Hazan Dynasty

The brilliance of “Family Business” lies in its ability to craft a believable family dynamic, despite the utterly outlandish circumstances. Joseph’s impulsive nature, fueled by a desperate desire to escape the perceived drudgery of his father’s butcher shop, clashes hilariously with Aure’s more cautious and traditional outlook. This tension, expertly portrayed by Cohen and Darmon, forms the bedrock of the series’ comedic core. Let’s explore some frequently asked questions surrounding this iconic family.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Are Jonathan Cohen and Gérard Darmon actually related in real life?

No, Jonathan Cohen and Gérard Darmon are not related in real life. Their on-screen chemistry is a testament to their acting prowess, allowing them to convincingly portray the complex relationship between Joseph and Aure Hazan. The casting directors truly struck gold when pairing these two talents.

Q2: What is the age difference between Jonathan Cohen and Gérard Darmon?

The age difference between Jonathan Cohen and Gérard Darmon is significant. Gérard Darmon was born in 1948, while Jonathan Cohen was born in 1980. This substantial age gap mirrors the father-son relationship portrayed in the series, adding another layer of authenticity to their performances.

Q3: Is the Hazan family a real family business?

No, the Hazan family and their “Family Business” are entirely fictional. The series is a work of satire and dark comedy, designed to entertain and provoke thought through exaggerated scenarios and humorous takes on serious issues.

Q4: What is the main plot of “Family Business”?

The central plot revolves around Joseph Hazan convincing his family to convert their struggling kosher butcher shop into a marijuana dispensary, capitalizing on the legalization of cannabis in France (or rather, Joseph’s premature assumption of its legalization). The series follows their chaotic and often hilarious journey as they navigate the world of organized crime and the challenges of running a legitimate (or not-so-legitimate) business.

Q5: Who plays the role of the grandmother in “Family Business”?

The role of the hilarious and often surprisingly shrewd grandmother, Josiane Hazan, is played by Liliane Rovère. She is a vital part of the family dynamic and brings a unique brand of comedic timing to the series.

Q6: Where is “Family Business” filmed?

“Family Business” is primarily filmed in Paris, France. The series showcases the vibrant city, adding to its overall charm and appeal. The authentic Parisian settings contribute to the show’s immersive quality.

Q7: Is “Family Business” available with English subtitles?

Yes, “Family Business” is available with English subtitles on Netflix, making it accessible to a wider international audience. This allows viewers from all over the world to enjoy the show’s humor and unique storyline.

Q8: How many seasons of “Family Business” are there?

There are a total of three seasons of “Family Business”. The series concluded with its third season, providing a satisfying (albeit chaotic) conclusion to the Hazan family’s saga.

Q9: Is there going to be a “Family Business” season 4?

As of now, there are no plans for a “Family Business” season 4. The creators have indicated that the third season marks the end of the series, allowing them to explore other projects.

Q10: What are some similar shows to “Family Business”?

If you enjoyed “Family Business,” you might also like shows that blend dark comedy with family dynamics and criminal undertones. Some similar shows include:

• “Weeds”: An American series about a suburban mother who starts selling marijuana to support her family.
• “Ozark”: A darker and more intense series about a financial planner who launders money for a drug cartel.
• “Good Girls”: A show about three suburban mothers who turn to crime to solve their financial problems.
• “Arrested Development”: A hilarious sitcom about a wealthy family who loses everything and must adjust to a new life.

Q11: What makes “Family Business” unique?

“Family Business” stands out due to its unique blend of French humor, Jewish cultural references, and a wildly absurd plot. The show doesn’t shy away from sensitive topics, tackling them with a lighthearted approach that makes them both relatable and thought-provoking. Its success relies on the strong comedic timing of its cast and the clever writing that keeps viewers engaged.

Q12: What is the overall message of “Family Business”?

While “Family Business” is primarily a comedy, it subtly explores themes of family loyalty, ambition, and the lengths people will go to for survival. The show questions the traditional definition of success and suggests that true happiness might be found in unexpected places, even amidst the chaos of a cannabis-fueled enterprise. Ultimately, it underscores the importance of family bonds, regardless of the unconventional choices they might make. The characters, despite all their flaws, are deeply relatable and leave a lasting impression on the viewers.