Amazon MGM Studios’ Quebec-Set ‘Glass House’ Closes Series Mania

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Amazon MGM Studios’ Limited Series “The Glass House” Shines at Series Mania Closing Gala

Amazon MGM Studios’ limited series “The Glass House,” Series Mania’s three-episode closing gala, marks a significant milestone for Prime Video. The show, created by Montreal standup star Martin Matte, delves into the life of an entrepreneur facing societal changes in 1990s Montreal. It is the first scripted French-language series from the studio’s Canadian branch and the first Canadian Prime Video Original to secure the prestigious closing spot at the festival. This achievement underscores the growing international recognition of Quebec’s premium TV series and their ability to resonate with global audiences.

Brent Haynes, head of local originals at Amazon MGM Studios, Canada, emphasized the appeal of locally rooted stories executed with exceptional craftsmanship. The selection of “Vitrerie Joyal” (the French title of the series) for Series Mania reflects the quality and universal themes present in the show.

For Martin Matte, the creator, writer, and lead actor of “The Glass House,” the journey from his previous series, “Les beaux malaises,” to this new project represents a personal and professional evolution. While his earlier show focused on his own life experiences, “The Glass House” delves into his father’s struggles in business and family life during the tumultuous ’90s.

The emotional depth of the story resonated with Matte, who spent a decade developing the concept before collaborating with Encore Television and Amazon MGM Studios to bring it to life. Inspired by his father’s experiences, the series transitions from situational comedy to darker themes, showcasing Matte’s growth as a storyteller.

Director Guillaume Lonergan, known for his work on “Empathy,” recognized the cultural significance of the ’90s era depicted in “The Glass House.” The series explores themes of change and resilience in the face of societal shifts, drawing parallels to Lonergan and Matte’s own experiences during the Quebec referendum.

The meticulous attention to detail in production, from sets to costumes, evokes the authenticity of the period and Matte’s personal memories. The collaborative approach to storytelling, highlighted by a table read with the full cast and crew, set the tone for a series that seamlessly blends comedy and drama.

As “The Glass House” premieres on Prime Video, it stands as a testament to the power of local storytelling with global appeal. Matte’s journey from a Quebec comedian to an international show creator showcases the transformative potential of personal narratives brought to the screen.