Rene Levesque: The Man, The Myth, The Mini-Series

Chances are if we ask anyone in Canada or Franco-America to list some of the most significant figures in Quebec History, Rene Levesque is going to be near the top of the list. The charismatic, chain smoking, poorly dressed co-founder of the Parti-Quebecois is responsible for some of the most significant policies and events that have shaped Quebec and its people. Not surprisingly, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation created a made-for-television mini-series about him in 2006 and followed up with a second season in 2008. Almost 20 years later, the series has made its way to US streaming services. So sit back and catch up on one of the most significant names in Quebec History on Prime or TUBI.

I’m old enough to have seen what is now Season 1 on DVD. The series was based on the book Rene Levesque A Man and His Dream, but was supplemented with plenty of added drama, overly sensationalized characters and events, and a smattering of historical news footage. By today’s standards, it amounts to a biopic rather than a documentary. Initial reviews were not good, but a second season was added. 

Season one introduces Levesque and his path from a popular news anchor to reluctant politician, his rise in and departure from the Quebec Liberal Party, his introduction to the concept of Maitres Chez Nous (masters of our own house) and his eventual cobbling together of the various separatist parties into the modern Parti Quebecois.

The season covers the good, the bad and the ugly of Levesque’s life from his ability to connect to the general public and his democratic ideals, to his work at the expense of everything around him, to his extra marital affairs. The image of Emmanuel Bilodeau as the younger Levesque seems a bit off, but the details of his life and accomplishments make up for the image gap. Season one ends a bit abruptly, making season 2 a necessity despite season one’s poor reception. 

Season two begins with a fast forward to his first election as Premier. A much more aged-looking Bilodeau makes for a more realistic Levesque. Although it skips the trials of 2 election defeats, viewers are introduced to the reality of his near removal from the party by those upset with his results in the first two election attempts. 

The events in season two focus on his 1980 referendum defeat and the subsequent loss in his attempts to block the patriation of the Canadian Constitution in 1982. While the season continues to showcase Levesque’s ideals toward organized labor, first nations and women's rights, the season focuses heavily on the physical and emotional toll taken by a life of political leadership and intra party struggles. Season two concludes with his eventual resignation as leader of the Parti Quebecois, and his return to life away from the pressures of politics.

While the cinematography and acting are far from Hollywood standards, and a creative drama often takes center stage, the series provides critical themes, events, people and timelines necessary for understanding and appreciating Quebec history and, or course, one of its most recognized names. Rene Levesque, the series, is here for us, and deserves our attention.