Charles Lafortune is indeed very confident that his adaptation of “MasterChef” will gladden the hearts of Quebecers and deliver a big blow to TVA.
The culinary competition, which has resumed around the world, will adopt the codes of everyday fiction like “Indefensible” to bring viewers back the next day, focusing on the connection with the contestants, laughter, tears, strategy, surprise and passion for cooking that captivates his audience.
“I think people will be very affectionate and curious, and with dinners like this, I get the impression that if you eat a little late while listening to ‘MasterChef,’ you’re going to be hungry,” said Charles Lafortune, who is with his Pixcom, the company producing the Quebec adaptation, is behind the show’s kitchen on Tuesday afternoon. In his opinion, this type of program was missing from TVA’s schedule.
Hosted and judged by Martin Picard and Stefano Faita, the Quebec adaptation, which is well into filming, will be screened in 30-minute daily sessions. In an atmosphere inspired by the American version, “MasterChef Québec” has retained the trademark of the competition. From January, in addition to the Mystery Box, the Elimination Challenges and the Creative Challenges, we will also find the lounge, the pop-up restaurant and the huge pantry.
“I am pleased with the development of Martin and Stefano and the increasing pleasure they get from tasting the candidates’ dishes. There is no complacency. They say what they really think, and that’s what makes the “show” so relevant. “I also like the importance that the candidates attach to the jury’s comments and their will to win,” emphasized director Guillaume St-Arnaud (“Get Me Out of Here”) between filming two episodes.
Martin Picard and Stefano Faita during the taping of an episode of “MasterChef Québec”, Tuesday, December 5, 2023. TOMA ICZKOVITS
“I am convinced it will be a success. “The emotions are so high,” the director added, assuring that the contestants quickly bonded with each other.
From the 4,700 registrants, the production selected 35 participants to audition for the famous white apron, which gives entry to the competition. Of these, 16 amateur chefs have officially joined the brigade.
They are colorful people with different profiles and important culinary skills. We could therefore find an engineer or even a roofer who has an unfulfilled dream of becoming a chef, explained Mr St-Arnaud.
Guillaume St-Arnaud on the set of “MasterChef Québec”, Tuesday December 5, 2023. TOMA ICZKOVITS
In summary, “MasterChef” includes more than 500 seasons around the world, available in 70 versions in around twenty territories. “There’s a whole Bible to it,” advised Charles Lafortune, who says he sometimes looks at the cameras on set from his office.
Since there are only a few regional dishes on the menu, the local adaptation primarily highlights products from Quebec. “I think Quebecers in general are very interested in food, we are adventurous. There are many cuisines that mix. […] But as soon as you put a culture into a format, the format immediately adapts,” recalls Charles Lafortune. The producer also admitted he feared for his team when TVA’s cuts were announced in recent weeks.
“I’m a TVA kid. I started hosting here when I was 29 to 30 years old. There are a lot of people here that I grew up with that do shows. “It made me very sad, but I fully intend to bring back the people who were on the show if we have a second season,” he said.
“MasterChef Quebec” premieres January 8 on TVA.