Grootboom & Sons isn’t a regular funeral parlour, it’s a business to die for! Streaming express from Mzansi Magic on both Showmax and DStv online, this family drama series has got us hooked since it debuted on our screens.
A few episodes in and this much is certain, Sibulele Gcilitshana (The Station, Grassroots)and Zandile Msutwana (The Queen, Zabalaza) deliver an impressive performance in the new drama series.
It’s no lie that this family is divided: from a rivalry between two sisters whose feud dates back to 15 years ago when Funeka left home and never returned, to two brothers Mbulelo (Bongile Mantsai) and Zola (Mbasa Msongelo), who are pitted against each other in ways that threaten to tear apart the legacy their parents built.
The prodigal daughter returns, while another lies in her deathbed
While Vuyo’s health deteriorates due to the autoimmune disease she has been hiding from family, her sister Funeka returns home after 15 years to help manage the business. Vuyo makes it clear that she will hand over the family’s funeral business to her two sons, Mbulelo and Zola. This doesn’t sit well with Funeka, whose aim is to weasel her way into the family’s funeral parlour.
Does Funeka have what it takes to run this family business?
When the two sisters meet for the first time, they get into a heated argument that hints at the dramatic mess this story is about to become: and we’re here for it. At this point, Funeka’s motives seem hidden under the surface, and we haven’t been able to see what’s beneath, but it’s coming and will definitely be worth the wait.
Brothers don’t see eye to eye
When Mbulelo books a ticket for Funeka to attend their father’s tombstone unveiling, knowing very well that his mother won’t approve, Zola warns him that he’s making a big mistake. It is here we learn that they don’t get along.
The siblings are total opposites: Mbulelo is a smart PhD student who prefers to work behind the scenes whereas Zola, the youngest son, is a smooth talker. He makes the show crackle with energy through his witty jokes and enjoys going out to nightclubs to pick up random women.
It’s clear to us that the two brothers are not capable of taking over the funeral parlour as their mother wishes, which leaves us with one person capable to do so – Funeka. During their father’s unveiling, the brothers express their concerns about the business.
“My brother, look, if you want this business, you can have it. I don’t want this business,” says Zola. “Dude, why are you giving it to me? I don’t want to be preoccupied. I don’t need the added stress.” Mbulelo responds.
With their mother on her deathbed, and time ticking, will Mbulelo and Zola address whatever issues they have and be ready to take over their family’s legacy before it’s too late?
Watch Grootboom & Sons every Monday at 20:00 on Mzansi Magic and express to Showmax and DStv online.
