Nicole Kassell, a highly accomplished filmmaker, holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art History from Columbia University and a Master of Fine Arts degree in Film from New York University's Film Program, where she received full scholarships for two consecutive years.
Her exceptional talent in filmmaking was recognized early on, with her short film "Jaime" winning the prestigious DGA student female filmmaker prize. Additionally, her thesis film "The Green Hour" premiered at the 2002 Sundance Film Festival, solidifying her reputation as a rising star in the industry.
Kassell's feature film debut, "The Woodsman," premiered in competition at the 2004 Sundance Film Festival and was distributed by Newmarket Films. The screenplay, co-written by Kassell and Steven Fechter, was based on Fechter's play and won first prize at the 2002 Slamdance Screenplay Competition. The film received widespread critical acclaim, earning numerous accolades including a CACAE award at the Cannes Film Festival, the Jury Prize at the Deauville Film Festival, a Humanitas nomination, and the Satyajit Ray Award at the London Film Festival.
Kassell's impressive body of work has garnered her numerous nominations, including a Gotham Award for Breakthrough Director and an Independent Spirit Award for Best First Feature. She was also recognized by Variety as one of the top "directors to watch" in the industry.
Currently, Kassell is developing an adaptation of Barbara Kingsolver's novel "Prodigal Summer," which she optioned the rights to and is co-writing with Kingsolver. The project was selected for the 2013 Sundance Writer's and Producers Lab and is being produced by Big Beach films.
In addition to her work in feature films, Kassell has also directed several episodes of popular television shows, including "The Killing," "The Americans," "The Following," and "Rectify." She has also guest lectured at NYU, mentored for the Cinereach foundation, and serves on the Eastern Director's Council of the Directors Guild of America.
Kassell resides in New York City with her husband and two children.
