Lee Gordon Demarbre, a renowned Canadian filmmaker celebrated for his cult film endeavors, came into the world on March 8, 1972, in the picturesque city of Chicoutimi, Quebec, Canada. As the president and driving force behind Odessa Filmworks, a production company proudly calling Ottawa, Ontario its home, Demarbre has spearheaded the development of numerous films that have garnered international recognition.
Demarbre's educational journey began at St Matthew Catholic High School in Orleans, Ontario, where he earned his diploma in 1990. He subsequently pursued a degree in film studies at Carleton University, further honing his skills and knowledge in the realm of cinematic arts.
In 1998, Demarbre's short film, a trailer for a martial arts movie spoof titled Harry Knuckles, garnered significant attention, paving the way for the creation of longer, feature-length versions featuring the beloved character. This early success culminated in Demarbre's debut full-length feature film, Jesus Christ Vampire Hunter, which boasted an impressive cast of actors who had previously appeared in the Harry Knuckles films.
Demarbre's cinematic journey began with a stint at Ottawa's esteemed ByTowne Cinema, where he honed his skills and laid the groundwork for his future endeavors.
Before dedicating himself to the city of Odessa, Demarbre spent time at the ByTowne Cinema in Ottawa, fine-tuning his craft and cultivating a passion for the art of film programming.
Currently, Demarbre can be found programming films for the iconic Mayfair Theatre, a testament to his dedication to the world of cinema and his ability to bring a diverse range of films to the big screen.
As a programmer for the Mayfair Theatre, Demarbre continues to make a name for himself in the industry, curating a diverse selection of films that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
His work at the Mayfair Theatre is a reflection of his commitment to showcasing the best of cinema, and his ability to connect with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Ian Hodgkinson took on a starring role in Demarbre's 2007 project, The Dead Sleep Easy, which was meticulously filmed on location in Mexico, showcasing the director's keen eye for capturing the unique essence of the foreign landscape.
In the following year, Demarbre embarked on a new venture, Smash Cut, which underwent an extensive post-production process that began in July 2008.
Demarbre is a multifaceted individual who has expanded his creative endeavors beyond the realm of filmmaking. He has taken on an additional role as the host of a weekly radio program, aptly titled "Drunken Master Revue", which airs on CKCU-FM, a prominent Ottawa-based radio station. This platform allows him to share his passion for cinema with a wider audience, delving into the world of film with his signature blend of humor and expertise.
Furthermore, Demarbre has also established himself as a champion of cult cinema, curating a monthly showcase of rare and classic film prints at the iconic Mayfair Theatre. His program, "Saturday Night Sinema", has become a beloved institution in Ottawa's film community, providing a unique opportunity for audiences to experience the magic of these often-overlooked cinematic gems on the big screen.
Through his tireless efforts, Demarbre has solidified his position as a prominent figure in Ottawa's film scene, and his contributions to the world of cinema continue to inspire and entertain audiences of all ages.
