The business of mortuary affairs is the theme of Netflix's latest series, Buried by the Bernards. In 2017, Ryan Bernard opened the doors to R Bernard Funeral Services. It offers complete yet affordable funeral packages to help his community deal with exponentially high funeral costs
With family dramedy at the center, the family-owned and operated business provides the community with top-tier care, service, and comfort with a side of laughter in the toughest of times. In this work line, the Bernards can't neglect to support each other and have their own special recipe for preserving their relationships. It's one part understanding, a pinch of sarcasm, and a heaping spoonful of blatant honesty. This unorthodox funeral home is only outmatched by the unconventional Bernard family themselves.
From the show's synopsis, I had no idea what to expect from Buried by the Bernards. Quite honestly, a small part of me expected the show to be filled with stereotypes and ratchetness. Imagine my surprise when that wasn't the case at all. Instead, Buried by the Bernards highlights the art and business of mortuary affairs. Episode 1 introduces us to each of the Bernards, with each family displaying different qualities.
The matriarch, Mrs. Debbie, is a confident and sass woman who reminded me of my own grandmother. While oldest daughter Deja is loyal to a T and has a great relationship with her younger sister Regan. Uncle Kevin is an old school player who steals every scene he's in and provides plenty of laughs. In Episode 2, Uncle Kevin has a great moment when he negotiates a new hearse for the funeral business with a car dealer. I also enjoyed the show taking out time to show Memphis's beauty and the city's iconic landmarks.
Furthermore, the show also highlights the importance of time management and generational wealth. Time management comes into play during an episode where Kevin plays video games with his co-worker Tavion. It's a great scene as it showcases the importance of ensuring you find time to unwind and take a break away from the job. Generational wealth comes into play as the family has numerous discussions about passing the funeral home down for generations. I loved the scene where Mrs. Debbie let her granddaughters know they should always have a secondary means of income.
Throughout eight episodes, each clocking in at under thirty minutes, Buried by the Bernards never overstays its welcome, nor does it fall into stereotypical jokes for ratings. Instead, Buried by the Bernards showcases the beauty of family working together.
Final Grade: B
Buried by the Bernards will be available for streaming on Netflix tomorrow, February 12.
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