Martin Matte’s new series, Vitrerie Joyal, is set to premiere on Prime Video this Friday, offering a nostalgic dive into 1990s Quebec. The six-episode series, co-written by Matte and François Avard and directed by Guillaume Lonergan, draws inspiration from Matte’s life and his father’s entrepreneurial journey.
The show visually recreates the aesthetic of the 1990s, from the cars and bungalow décor to the fashion of the era. According to Louis Bolduc, a producer for Encore Télévision, the series benefits from the financial backing of Prime Video, allowing for accurate set design and the inclusion of period-appropriate music. “On avait l’argent que ça prenait pour le faire, ce qu’on n’a pas souvent ici,” Bolduc explained, noting that while the budget wasn’t astronomical, it was sufficient to recreate the 1990s authentically.
A Nostalgic Look at 1990s Quebec
Vitrerie Joyal isn’t simply a period piece; it also tackles social issues prevalent in the 1990s, such as racism, the role of women in the workplace, and homosexuality, presenting them with both humor, and insight. The series premiered at the Centre PHI in Montreal on Tuesday, where media outlets were given access to the first three episodes.
The production team made a conscious effort to capture the visual essence of the decade. The attention to detail in recreating the 1990s aesthetic was a key focus, as noted by Bolduc, who emphasized the importance of having the resources to do so effectively.
Cast and Creative Team
Guillaume Cyr, Florence Longpré, and Pier-Luc Funk star alongside Martin Matte in Vitrerie Joyal. Guillaume Lonergan, who recently gained recognition for his work on the comedy-drama Empathie starring Florence Longpré, directed the series. The series is a co-production between Encore Télévision and MatteTV, with distribution handled by Prime Video.
Industry Buzz and Anticipation
Martin Matte expressed his excitement for the series’ release, stating, “I can’t wait for audiences to discover it on Prime Video starting May.” The series is described as a comedy-drama that explores a pivotal period in Quebec’s history, a time when the province was navigating a transition between tradition and modernity.
Diane Lavallée recently discussed her upcoming projects, adding to the anticipation surrounding new Quebecois productions. While details of her involvement with Vitrerie Joyal were not specified, her mention highlights the current momentum in the Quebec entertainment industry.
The premiere of Vitrerie Joyal was marked by a red-carpet event attended by numerous celebrities. The event generated significant media coverage, further fueling interest in the series.
Vitrerie Joyal promises to be a compelling blend of nostalgia, humor, and social commentary, offering viewers a glimpse into a defining era in Quebec’s cultural landscape. The series is available to stream on Prime Video beginning Friday.