Laval gets its own feature film: Laval, le film

Média Communautaire Lavallois proudly presents Laval, le film, the first fiction feature to be filmed entirely in Laval. Directed by local filmmaker Noah Trentadue and produced by Alberto Georgian Mihut, general director of MCL, the project is a grassroots, youth-driven production that aims to shine a light on the city through a fresh lens.

This independent film, developed mostly through volunteer work, was born from the desire of Laval residents to challenge the city’s often-dismissive image. Styled as a “mockumentary,” the story follows characters discovering Laval’s evolution and the community sector, while exploring the deeper question: What does it mean to be from Laval?

An intergenerational cast of both emerging and seasoned performers brings the story to life, including familiar names like Diane‐Marie Racicot and promising new faces making their debut in a feature-length film.

A Project Generating Excitement

The announcement of the film on Instagram in June quickly gained traction, reaching over 12,200 views in one week all without paid promotion.

“Laval’s cultural identity can no longer wait it must stand tall. We wanted to do something different and leave our mark with this film, placing Laval and its community spirit at the heart of the story.
This isn’t just a niche film about Laval, it’s a model of civic engagement. I’m sure other cities will hear about it and ask, ‘Hey, where’s our film?’
Yes, I love Laval more than most enough to write an unofficial anthem in 2022, starting with ‘Oh Laval, my beautiful city.’
I never imagined that, after imagining this idea in 2023 and approaching Noah in September 2024, there would be so much passion from everyone involved. Thank you to all who believed in us I can’t wait for the film’s release, hopefully in 2026.”
Alberto Georgian Mihut, producer and general director of MCL

“As someone born and raised in Laval, I’ve often heard people say, ‘Ugh, Laval,’ when I mention where I’m from. That always hurt me, because I’m proud of my hometown.
So when Alberto approached me about directing this first feature film on Laval, I didn’t just say yes I said finally!
My goal has always been to create powerful works, and this time, we’re using cinema as a tool for pride. Honestly, I’ve never felt this much excitement around a project. With a team of emerging talents of all ages, we’re going to show Laval’s true essence. Laval has its own identity and next year, we’ll prove it.”
Noah Trentadue, director

Key Cast

Adam – Tristan Clouâtre
Role: Adam, a passionate young filmmaker on a mission to capture Laval’s spirit.
Notable credits:

• Lead role – Félix Babin-Bibeau, Comme des têtes pas de poule (2022–2025)
• Speaking role – District 31 (2020)
• Appearances – Bye Bye 2023, Indéfendable 3, À cœur battant, STAT, Avant le Crash

Lisa – Amilia Ziane
Role: Lisa, artistic director and educator, combining creativity and empathy to support Laval’s youth.
Cinema:

• Lead – When Love Stood Still (2025)

Alex – Joseph D’Espinose
Role: Alex, a gifted athlete and Adam’s half-brother, searching for belonging and authenticity.
Cinema:

• Auditoria (2024), When a Troll Gives You Magic Herbs (2024), Smile Bright (2022)

William – Keliam Chartier Suprice
Role: William, a discreet businessman whose generosity changes the group’s dynamic.
TV and film:

• Les bracelets rouges (2023), La dernière communion, CIRKUS

Madame Linda – Diane‐Marie Racicot
Role: Madame Linda, a wise elder and community centre storyteller.
Notable credits:

• The Successor (2023), Catimini (2012), and many more in film and television

The cast is rounded out by a wide range of actors from different backgrounds and generations all contributing to a rich portrait of Laval.

A Deep Dive into Laval’s Identity

Laval, le film follows three teens Adam, Lisa, and Alex who set out to make a documentary about their hometown. Through their journey, viewers discover a fast-growing city rich in diversity and community life. Both a coming-of-age story and a tribute to resilience, the film explores the identity quest of Laval’s youth and asks: What will remain of Laval in ten years?

The Origins

Before a single camera rolled, Noah and Alberto already involved in local media through the MCL took time to meet residents face-to-face. They attended neighbourhood block parties, held informal meetings, and rallied their networks around one central question:
“To you, what defines Laval’s identity?”

The answers moving, humorous, and eye-opening shaped the film’s core themes: the diversity of Laval’s neighbourhoods, the strength of its community organizations, and its collective aspirations. These real-life stories fed into the script and filming locations, grounding the project in living memory and long-term vision.

Call to the Community: Support the Film

To fund the production, the team has launched a crowdfunding campaign on La Ruche:

• Pre-sale of VIP premiere tickets
• Business partnerships with recognition in the film’s end credits

This is a chance for local residents and companies to directly support a meaningful cultural initiative.

Filming begins in August 2025, with a planned release in 2026.

About Média Communautaire Lavallois (MCL)

MCL is a non-profit community media organization dedicated to amplifying Laval residents’ voices through journalism, fieldwork, and storytelling. With two local publications and numerous initiatives, MCL helps build stronger ties between people and their city.