This Valentine’s Day, SBS is set to redefine the narrative of love with the release of The Matchmakers, a compelling documentary series that delves into the intimate and often complex world of cultural matchmaking in Australia.
This series, which merges heartwarming moments with confronting realities, will be accessible for streaming on SBS On Demand, and weekly episodes will broadcast at 8.40pm on SBS.
In an era where online dating and quick swipes are the norm, The Matchmakers stands out by returning to the time-honoured traditions of matchmaking. The documentary goes behind the scenes with three of Australia’s esteemed cultural matchmakers, who are aiding singles in their quest for love amidst the backdrop of modern Australian society.
The series paints a vivid picture of the dramatic and touching moments that define the matchmaking process. From initial dates and awkward encounters to delicate discussions among all involved parties, viewers get an inside look at the intricate and crucial negotiations aimed at uniting two families. The focus is not just on romantic connections but also on the preservation of cultural heritage through marriage.
The Matchmakers sheds light on the romantic journeys within three distinct Australian communities. With the Jewish population making up just 0.4% in Australia, Sydney-based matchmaker Toby Lieder brings her global expertise to the table. Meanwhile, Sheikh Alaa Elzokm plays a pivotal role in facilitating marriages within Melbourne’s expanding Muslim community. In the realm of Hindu matchmaking, Preeti and Heena tackle the complex task of bringing couples together in Indian families.
The documentary raises a critical question: In a nation with high divorce rates, is there more wisdom in a matchmaking approach that prioritises shared values over leaving love to chance?
SBS Senior Commissioning Editor for Documentaries, Bernadine Lim, commented:
“SBS is known for exploring contemporary Australia in a unique and entertaining way and in The Matchmakers, the mysterious world of matchmaking offers an intriguing, rich insight into the universal questions around love, family and marriage in modern multicultural Australia.“
General Manager and Creative Director of BBC Studios Productions Australia, Kylie Washington, shared her thoughts:
“This show explores love, family expectations and life ambitions against a backdrop of cultural expectations. With high rates of marriage failure in Australia, can more be learned from an approach that refuses to leave love to chance alone?“
The Head of Screen NSW, Kyas Hepworth, also expressed support:
“Screen NSW continues to support the telling of new and intriguing stories from communities across NSW, and this observational documentary will offer audiences a unique glimpse into the traditions and culture of matchmaking.“
The Matchmakers is a production by BBC Studios Productions Australia for SBS, with principal production investment from Screen NSW in association with SBS.
The series will not only be available in streaming format but also with subtitles in eight languages, including Simplified Chinese, Arabic, Vietnamese, Traditional Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Punjabi, and Hindi. Additionally, it features audio description for audiences with visual impairments.
The Matchmakers on SBS marks a significant addition to Australia’s documentary landscape, offering a fresh perspective on the age-old quest for love and the enduring importance of cultural traditions.
