In 1998 Harry Knuckles was unleashed onto silver screens across North America. The mock 16mm trailer (for a non-existent feature film) proved to be a local hit, spawning a sequel. Harry Knuckles and the Treasure of the Aztec Mummy told a story (unlike the original) and again became a local hit.

The filmmakers never expected the half hour short to play anywhere else outside Ottawa, however it did. Harry Knuckles and the Treasure of the Aztec Mummy went on to win over seven international film festival awards. The Harry sequel was even invited to play at the Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood, California, and later would be invited to the Cannes Film Festival.

By 1999 Odessa Filmworks Inc. had established itself as a truly independent genre production and distribution company. Harry and its sequel both brought many different genres of film together (kung-fu action, comedy, horror, wrestling, musical, etc.), giving its audience a fresh respect for the cheesy classics of the 60’s, 70s and 80’s.

In 2001, Odessa Filmworks Inc. would release its craziest production ever. Audiences who hear its title alone can hardly believe in its existence. Jesus Christ Vampire Hunter premiered in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada on June 10th, 2001 to sold out crowds. Jesus Christ Vampire Hunter marks a continuing effort for Odessa Filmworks Inc. to give its audience what they expect – “a thinking man’s genre picture.”