Michael Rowley is an award-winning documentary filmmaker, cinematographer, and editor living in Dallas, Texas. 

Rowley’s work has been characterized as defiant, visceral, and deeply human. Themes of justice, human connectivity and harrowing circumstance emerge throughout his films. From tear-gas filled streets of refugee camps to the open prairies of the American West, Rowley’s voice has earned him a spot on DOC NYC’s 40 Under 40 list of notable filmmakers, the Austin Film Society’s North Texas Pioneer Film Grant three times and five festival jury awards for exceptional work.

Rowley’s feature directorial debut, Hurdle (2019), screened across the international film festival circuit and earned praise from audiences and critics alike. Touting press features in publications like The New York Times and Variety, Hurdle, was acquired by SundanceNOW and is distributed by TVF International and New Day Films. Rowley was the director, cinematographer, editor and a producer on the film.

Rowley’s second film, Praying For Armageddon (2023), is a political thriller that investigates the fusion between Evangelical Christianity and American politics. Through years of reporting, this film highlights the impact religion wields on U.S. foreign policy. The film held its World Premiere in competition at CPH:DOX 2023, North American Premiere as a special presentation of HotDocs 2023, was lauded by Variety, and is distributed by DR Sales. Rowley was the co-director and director of photography alongside Director, Tonje Hessen Schei.

Founding the production company Fold Studios in 2012, Rowley has demonstrated the ability to apply his technical skill and honest approach to transform challenging subject matter into impactful narratives.