I am a writer and artist who has worked extensively in higher education, most notably in film media support at Boston University, and I am a long-standing contributor to Cineaste Magazine‘s documentary film column Short Takes. My criticism is grounded in a belief that a film’s formalist elements are intrinsically linked with its semiotic power, and I am also indebted to David E. James’ theory that a film is always a metaphor for its mode of production. I embrace a total arts vision of the cinematic medium, and my film writing is informed by my training and work in other art forms: theatre, poetry, and the studio arts. I post film musings and media criticism on the instagram @reinventthelens and its companion long-form site Reinvent the Lens.

In addition to my work in film studies, I have experience crafting blog content, site copy, brochures, print ads, and social media posts. I love playing around with front-end web code and graphic design tools like Adobe Creative Suite and Canva, and I manage my own WordPress sites. I do not shy away from learning new tech, however, I am also a strong advocate for the rights and empowerment of the human creator over the use of AI in the creative and communications industries. I do NOT use Artificial Intelligence when I write. For better or worse–it’s all me! Yes, I am a human who loves an em dash!

Testimonial

“Mary Bowen is one of those rare cases that represent the best of both worlds: a smart, organized, highly efficient pro with wizard-like computer skills and great personality who also happens to be a really talented writer. I’ve cherished her fiction, and I have called on her many times for non-fiction pieces. I’ve commissioned many reviews from her for a page of documentary criticism I edit for Cineaste–a magazine that is highly selective when it comes to picking its authors. In my view, Mary’s writing makes her an heir to New Journalism. She is a poet of facts, and her work is mesmerizing. Too many riches!”

—Roy Grundmann
Contributing Editor, Cineaste Magazine

Services & Contact

My freelance rates for editing and content writing services vary based on the scope and complexity of the project. Prospective clients will be provided with a custom quote. I will also consider long-term contract and salaried opportunities.

Anyone interested in retaining my services can connect with me via LinkedIn.