iSpy’s objective is to ensure that ethnically diverse, socially relevant and independent films and videos are available to the public. We want to provide audiences with the opportunity to see diverse and independent films as well as to provide a place for filmmakers to showcase their work. The initiative came out of my experiences as a radio reporter covering film festivals. After attending the Reel World Film Festival in 2004, I realized that many of the films I had seen would never screen in Ottawa. I then decided to organize a free community screening comprised of three short films, two of which I had seen at the Reel World. The turnout was great and the idea of creating a “regular” film/video screening series was born that night.

Starting something from scratch is never easy. There have been several bumps in the road in seeking and promoting these films. Despite this, the overall experience has been very affirming and positive. Fortunately, I have not had to travel this road alone. There are many people who have given their time and energy to make the screenings possible, like: Sebastien Callendar, Annette Emmanuel, Sanjay Mohanta, Donna Varciana and the folks at SAW.

iSpy is constantly seeking new ways to connect with filmmakers and the community.

~Monique Fuller