Contrary to what its name might suggest, Billionaire Island is not a flashy survival reality show. Instead, this Norwegian dramedy immerses viewers in the gritty world of corporate power struggles, far from the realm of reality TV. Created by Anne Bjørnstad and Eilif Skodvin, the duo behind Lilyhammer, the show masterfully blends dry wit, family drama, and industrial espionage, offering a unique critique of modern society.
Curious if it’s worth a watch? Let’s dive into what makes Billionaire Island stand out.
A Tale of Two Families
Set on Brima Island, Billionaire Island revolves around two rival families: the Meyers, whose business, Meyer Fjordbruk, has seen better days, and the Langes, who run Marlax, a sleek and modernized salmon empire.
The show contrasts these two powerful families, highlighting their differences while subtly suggesting that their internal dynamics might not be as different as they seem on the surface.
Gjert Meyer, the head of the Meyer family, is a traditionalist businessman stuck in the past, facing both personal and professional challenges. His interactions with his employees, his strained relationship with his neglected daughter, and his struggles with his son-in-law portray a man desperately clinging to his fading power. The Meyer family’s problems are compounded by Gjert’s wife, who remains silent due to a possible stroke.
On the flip side, the Lange family, led by CEO Julie Lange (Trine Wiggen), seems polished and successful. Julie exudes confidence, living in a luxurious, glass-fronted home while donning tailored pantsuits. But beneath their wealth, the Langes are just as fractured as their rivals. Julie’s children either try to live under her influence or struggle to break free, while her husband is portrayed as helpless and detached.
The Sharp Writing Behind the Drama
The core of Billionaire Island is the corporate battle between these two families. After the death of a Meyer Fjordbruk stakeholder, Marlax sees an opportunity to swoop in, triggering intense boardroom showdowns, shady PR tactics, and secret deals.
However, what elevates Billionaire Island beyond typical corporate drama is its focus on human emotions and family ties. As the fight for control escalates, long-buried grudges and family dysfunctions rise to the surface, turning the series into a slow-burning psychodrama.
The show’s writing, courtesy of Bjørnstad and Skodvin, is masterful in its subtlety. Sardonic humor is woven throughout the drama, with moments of dry wit, such as a character struggling to hang birthday decorations or a misplaced comment like “How’s the meat curing going?” bringing levity to the show’s deeper themes.
These moments of humor balance the satire and emotional depth, enhancing the show’s focus on family strain and corporate betrayal.
How Is the Show Overall?
The pacing of Billionaire Island may divide viewers. While the slow build-up allows the characters’ flaws and insecurities to simmer beneath the surface, some may find the restrained intensity less gripping than expected. The dramatic payoffs are more about character development than flashy confrontations, so don’t expect constant high-stakes showdowns.
Despite this, the show’s nuanced portrayal of corporate life, combined with its delicate handling of explicit content and character-driven moments, makes it a rewarding watch for those who appreciate slow-burning narratives.
With its mix of corporate intrigue, family drama, and a sprinkle of Norwegian humor, Billionaire Island evokes the psychological tension and sardonic humor of shows like Succession. While it may not have the immediate thrill of a fast-paced series, its contemplative nature will appeal to fans of character-driven storytelling with a satirical twist.
Conclusion
Billionaire Island offers a refreshing take on the family-business drama genre, blending corporate scheming with sardonic humor and deep psychological undertones. While its pacing may feel slow for some, the rich character development and sharp writing make it a rewarding experience for viewers who enjoy thoughtful, character-driven narratives. If you appreciate slow-burn dramas with a focus on family dysfunction and corporate power plays, Billionaire Island is definitely worth the watch.