As the title suggests, I get a decent amount of questions. Here are the answers:
What do you do?
I’m a writer, so I write! It can be tough to find ways to actually write for the majority of one’s day-to-day existence, but after several years in the literary trenches, things are starting to come around.
In addition to writing my own personal projects, I also manage several blogs and work one-on-one with students to provide writing and essay guidance. I also take pictures from time to time.
Update 2024: I was also a middle school teacher for one year, and I am also now an engineering student at Colorado State University!
What is your academic background?
I graduated from Princeton University with a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature and a focus in Arts, Media, and Creative Writing coursework.
Will you write a review/analysis of “XYZ” Film?
I’m typically open to writing about any film, but only if it speaks strongly to me. With so many other projects currently under my belt, it’s tough to find the time to sit and muse on a whim. Therefore, I typically only write something if I can’t not write it.
How is a film review different from film criticism?
Good question. A film review is usually concerned with a yay or nay assessment of a film’s aesthetic qualities. Was it good? Will others like it? Is it worth watching? Film reviews can be helpful and fun to read, but are usually very simple and straightforward.
Film criticism, however, is more focused on analyzing a film through a critical lens, examining it on a deeper level that one might typically see in a film review. A film review will tell you what to think about a film. Film criticism suggests a method for how to think about it.
Can I reference your website in a paper or a project for school?
Yes, feel free. Please be sure to follow proper citation guidelines (MLA, APA, etc). Some tips can be found here.
Do you work with writers?
I have provided creative services from time to time (learn more here). Most of my current work is consultation based. Get in touch here if you have a specific project in mind that requires feedback.
What’s the best way to reach you directly?
The contact page is probably easiest, but if you’re not into forms, feel free to send an email to mariel[at]marielcalloway.com.