Mary C. Russell is a multifaceted and accomplished professional in the film industry, excelling as a director and director of photography, with a passion for genre and commercial filmmaking.
Born and raised in the Bay Area, Russell's life took a significant turn when she moved to Singapore at the tender age of ten. Now, she resides on the West Coast in the United States, where she has established herself as a talented and innovative filmmaker.
Russell's educational background is rooted in the world of film, having graduated from Columbia College Hollywood in 2014 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Film Production, with a major in Directing. This solid foundation has enabled her to hone her skills and pursue her creative vision with confidence.
One of Russell's most notable achievements is the short film "Carved", which she wrote, directed, and produced. This female horror slasher film premiered at the NewFilmmakers LA film festival in 2015 and was subsequently showcased at the 2016 Days of the Dead convention as part of the Etheria Film Night. The film's success was further solidified when it was picked up by an independent distribution company, making it available to stream on Amazon Prime.
The inspiration behind "Carved" can be traced back to the iconic films "Vanishing Point" and Quentin Tarantino's "Death Proof". The plot revolves around the possession of innocent people by the soul of a satanic inmate, as they embark on a journey to Las Vegas for a weekend of debauchery. Russell's work has drawn praise from industry professionals, including the renowned director Brian De Palma, who has expressed his admiration for her work, stating, "I do like directing other people's material."
In addition to her work as a director, Russell has also made a name for herself as a skilled cinematographer and director on commercials, music videos, and narrative content. Her expertise in production and script development has allowed her to excel in a variety of roles within the film industry.
Throughout her career, Russell has consistently demonstrated her versatility, creativity, and dedication to her craft. With a passion for genre and commercial filmmaking, she continues to push boundaries and inspire others with her innovative and captivating storytelling.
