In a groundbreaking move, Hulu is set to premiere the thrilling new series “Deli Boys,” a crime comedy that paints a captivating picture of South Asian American life through a unique and uproarious lens. The show follows the adventures of Mir and Raj Dar, two pampered Pakistani American brothers thrust into the wild world of tax evasion, cocaine smuggling, and bizarre family dynamics.
Here are some intriguing and original aspects of “Deli Boys” that are bound to captivate viewers:
- The Dar brothers, played by Asif Ali and Saagar Shaikh, are an unlikely duo. Highly educated and type-A Mir clashes with his hippie brother Raj, leading to humorous and chaotic situations.
- With the revelation that their father’s convenience store was a front for a drug cartel, Mir and Raj must navigate a dangerous new world with the help of Lucky, their dad’s right-hand woman.
- The show’s creator, Abdullah Saeed, draws from his own experiences growing up in South Asian immigrant families, infusing the series with authenticity and heartfelt storytelling.
- Rather than exoticizing South Asian culture, “Deli Boys” integrates it seamlessly into the narrative, showcasing everyday aspects like language, customs, and traditions without explanation.
- The universal theme of loss, identity, and self-discovery shines through as Mir and Raj grapple with their father’s criminal past and their own place in the world.
One of the most exciting elements of “Deli Boys” is the debut acting performance of Tan France, known for his role in “Queer Eye.” France takes on the role of Zubair, a British-Pakistani gang leader with a complex history intertwined with Lucky’s past. Despite having no formal acting training, France threw himself into the role, drawing inspiration from various sources to bring his character to life.
The show’s production itself is a step forward for diversity in Hollywood, featuring a predominantly South Asian cast and writers’ room. Stars like Saagar Shaikh and Asif Ali have consciously avoided stereotypical roles in the past, prioritizing authentic and meaningful representations. The series found a home at Disney’s Onyx Collective, a studio dedicated to amplifying voices of color and underrepresented communities.
As “Deli Boys” hits screens, it serves as a beacon of progress and change in the entertainment industry. By challenging stereotypes, showcasing diversity, and embracing unique narratives, the show opens doors for future projects led by creators from all backgrounds. Here’s to hoping that the success of “Deli Boys” encourages more executives to take chances on innovative stories that break the mold and push boundaries.
