Marie is an inspirational speaker with a wealth of experience in the film industry and as small business owner/entrepreneur. She has a postive, can-do attitude and an engaging personality and I’d be happy to recommend her as a speaker or workshop leader. Peter McLuskieCoventry University

Media

“Marie has been a fantastic BFI (British Film Institute) Film Academy master class speaker for Rural Media for 2 years running. Marie’s rapport and delivery is engaging and often time spent listening to her is never enough! Marie relates to young people so well and her wisdom and advice on the film industry is truly unique and insightful. I would highly recommend booking Marie for inspirational talks and master classes. Nathan WilliamsRural Media Academy

Book

What a delight!! Marie was our speaker at the Coventry Connexion meeting in January 2017 and she kicked off the year in a fabulous way. Her story and journey has been amazing and she shares this with style, panache and enthusiasm. She has done so much, met so many famous actors and directors and worked with the best. Her speaking style is from the heart, down to earth and full of passion. I would recommend Marie to anyone who wanted a speaker – her story is fascinating and all the better as she is just a local girl who made her way from Coventry to Hollywood!!! Edwina SilverConnexions Network Group

Home

Your talk was very inspiring, and quite honestly one of the most helpful talks we have had regarding careers since I’m a student at Warwick. You came across as an approachable person, which made the Q&A very interesting in my opinion. I personally loved your impressions of actors or crew members. It made your talk very vivid and entertaining. Your anecdotal tone as well was very appreciable. I wasn’t bored one second!  I strongly encourage you to continue doing this and sharing your experience with others! Thank you! Camie GuillaumeStudent, Warwick University

Contact Marie

About Marie

We met last year when she was on the judging panel of Monologue Slam, which is a showcase for actors from all backgrounds and profiles. I then attended a casting workshop where Marie gave me constructive criticism on my audition technique. As well as this, I was lucky enough to attend a guest lecture at the University of Leeds where she spoke about her success in the film industry! I cannot thank Marie enough for all she has taught me! What an incredible woman Marie is!! Grace JamesStudent, Leeds University

Listening to Marie talk about her experience on Rain Man is a visual road trip – we travel with her across the United States in her quest for actors. It is the road trip of a committed person eager to do her job, not the road-trip of a show-off superstar casting director. We relate to the extraordinary experience of being a Hollywood casting director but all in a human, down-to-earth way. And we get unique insights into the making of the film, the director’s choices and the actors’ preparations and doubts, as if we were there. Rachel Elfassy BitounStudent, Warwick University

Memoir Writing

Testimonials

Volunteer WorkAlways available to support up and coming filmmakers, Marie has written, produced and cast films for Women in Film’s charitable programs in Los Angeles, as well as for students at various California universities. She has been a mentor/special friend/big sister to a number of under-privileged children for over 30 years. She developed a mentor program and taught acting with “Colors United – Living Literature” in Watts and Venice High Schools in California. She was Artist in Residence at Hollygrove Children’s Home in Los Angeles (once home to Norma Jean Baker, aka Marilyn Monroe), teaching creative writing and drama, and was responsible for implementing their Media Centre, with heavy emphasis on reading and creative expression. Marie is very proud of the fact that she guided these troubled children into producing two illustrated books of poetry, which greatly increased their self-esteem and was an essential element in their need to be heard.

Film work with Barry LevinsonMarie has worked on most of Levinson’s films in the areas of script development, casting and producing, including the award winning “Good Morning, Vietnam”, “Rain Man” and “Avalon”.  She has also worked closely with many major Hollywood stars, including: Dustin Hoffman, Tom Cruise, Warren Beatty, Robert DeNiro, Robin Williams and Al Pacino – all starring in Levinson projects.  She resumed her acting career when Levinson cast her as Mrs. Ross in his film “Disclosure”, opposite Michael Douglas and Demi Moore.

Creative Development for PowerPlay Audiobook Summaries where she was responsible for choosing and summarizing business books on subjects such as Leadership Development, Communication Skills and Creative Thinking.  She then interviewed the authors and produced the studio recording sessions. With her vast experience in script development, Marie continues to help screenwriters with script analysis.  She has also entered the world of personal history and guided autobiography, helping people write their life stories. In addition, she has edited several books for published authors, including literary agent William Gladstone’s “The Twelve” (Vanguard Press), loosely based on his life. She has written industry articles for International Cinematographers’ Guild magazine (ICG) and several other publications as well as contributing chapters for published non-fiction books.

Producer of books on tape / writer and book editor As abridger/producer of books on tape for Dove Audio in Los Angeles, Marie dealt with a variety of books, from the classics and popular novels to psychology, business and the Bible. She abridged Dr. Arthur Janov’s “Primal Scream” and worked closely with him when she abridged his new book “Why You Get Sick How You Get Well.” She also consulted with author Vincent Bugliosi (Charles Manson’s prosecuting attorney) when she abridged his book “The Phoenix Solution,” about the war on drugs in America. Marie was appointed Vice President of 

ABOUT MARIE England to CanadaLearning shorthand at school in Coventry at the age of 13, has led Marie on a fascinating journey. Coincidentally, she also started acting when she was 13, so this number has been lucky for her since both professions have combined to lead her into an illustrious career in Hollywood. However, before this she spent time as a legal secretary and then a Beauty Therapist, while never abandoning her acting career. Marie ultimately picked up a backpack and headed for Europe. In order to support her travels she worked as an au pair in Switzerland, drug abuse secretary for the US Army in Germany (during the Vietnam era), DJ at a disco in Greece, and chambermaid.  She also lived in Israel, experiencing both the Arab and Israeli cultures, and the conflict, first hand.  On her return to England, two years later, she became a Croupier in a famous nightclub in Brighton. Marie subsequently immigrated to Toronto, Canada, where she worked in Public Relations before moving on to television as a Production Manager in the Drama and Variety departments of the CBC.  During this period she also produced special events for the Canadian Government, earning a special accolade from then Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau.  She founded “Radio Women” and produced several human-interest programs for CBC Radio, including Incest – the Great Taboo, resulting from her volunteer work with troubled girls. Canada to HollywoodAs Assistant to Theatre Director, John Hirsch, Marie was fortunate to work on Three Sisters with Maggie Smith at the Stratford Festival Theatre in Canada and with Anthony Hopkins in The Tempest at The Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles.  Feeling an affinity to California, she decided to move to Los Angeles, and thus her career in the film industry began. Her first Hollywood job was with the Samuel Goldwyn Company in film distribution and marketing, which resulted in her next job as publicist for the American Cinema Awards produced by the late David Gest. She was then hired as a staff writer on a TV show – “Divorce Court”-  and assistant to the writers on an HBO series “First and Ten” (with O.J. Simpson).  This led to a position with two comedy writers, Rudy De Luca (a co-writer with Mel Brooks on such films as “Silent Movie” and “High Anxiety”) and George Gipe (co-writer with Steve Martin on “Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid” and “The Man with Two Brains”), helping them develop episodes for an HBO TV series, “The Investigators”.  Barry Levinson directed this series of comedy shows, resulting in Marie’s long association with the writer/director.

mrobrit · Marie Rowe BBC Radio - Helping people write life stories

Marie on You Tube From Coventry to Hollywood

About Thanks for the Memoirs and MarieListen to Marie’s sound bite where she tells us a little more about herself and how Thanks for the Memoirs came to be.

Marie’s memories of Robin Williams.Marie Rowe worked closely with Robin Williams when she was a Casting Director on Good Morning, Vietnam. After Robin’s tragic death, she shared fond memories with listeners of BBC Coventry and Warwickshire radio.

mrobrit · Marie_Rowe_talks_about_her_fond_memories_of_Robin_Williams_live_on_Radio_KLICKAUD

Is Jamie Dornan too hot for the plot of Belfast?Marie is asked her professional opinion on the casting of Jamie Dornan in the highly acclaimed Kenneth Branagh film release, Belfast.

TedX Leamington Spa

mrobrit · Marie_Rowe tells her story_live_on_BBC_Radio_Coventry_Warwickshire

Radio Interviews Marie Rowe tells her story live on BBC Radio Coventry & Warwickshire

Contact Marie: +44 (0) 7447993714 mrowe97@gmail.com

Life Lessons from Hollywood ‘From Coventry to Hollywood with the help of Pitman’s Shorthand’. This is the title of one of Marie’s talks describing her journey from England to a rich and rewarding career in the film and television industries in Canada and Hollywood working with major stars including: Dustin Hoffman, Tom Cruise, Robin Williams, Robert DeNiro, Warren Beatty, Al Pacino, Michael Douglas and Anthony Hopkins. It started In Toronto, Canada, where she was a Production Manager in the Drama and Variety Departments of CBC-TV, before she moved to Los Angeles and a job in marketing and film distribution with the Samuel Goldwyn Company. This led to work in film and television production as writer, casting director, publicist, producer and actress. She has worked primarily with director Barry Levinson on many of his films, including the award winning “Good Morning, Vietnam”, “Rain Man”, “Disclosure” and “Avalon”.

The Experience ProvidesInspiration for all ages to believe in themselves;Motivation – with an attitude of ‘anything’s possible’;Life-affirming stories that uplift;Encouragement to think ‘outside of the box’;Common sense wisdom;Courage to take risks – there will always be a parachute!

Life Lessons from a 30 year career in HollywoodMotivational Speaker‘Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity’

Featuring Marie’s regular podcast ‘From Coventry to Hollywood’. The intriguing and captivating story of Marie’s life journey from humble beginnings in the industrial heartland of Britain to the glamour of Hollywood. A journey that is a product of discovery, serendipity and self-belief. Click here

Inspiring All AgesMarie shares her journey and the lessons she has learned along the way. Her stories inspire us to learn and progress in our careers and lives, and she encourages every one of us to embrace our uniqueness. She stresses the need to treat people the way you would want to be treated and to have integrity in all areas of your lives.

Marie is a gifted public speaker. Candid, brimming with enthusiasm and drawing on a wealth of anecdotes and lessons learned during a storied life and career.  Rich MatthewsRural Media Academy

Marie RoweMarie has worked with top Hollywood talent, including: Dustin Hoffman, Tom Cruise, Robin Williams, Robert DeNiro, Warren Beatty, Al Pacino, Michael Douglas and Anthony Hopkins.

Subscribe to Marie’s YouTube Channel

Why Hire Marie?When you hire Marie, your audience will:Improve communication skills;Learn to value and nurture a team;Develop creative thinking;Learn focus techniques, the power of visualisation, and trusting intuition;Learn to infuse mindfulness and the power of NOW;Eliminate fear-based thinking;Gain the confidence to expand on their skills.Believe in themselves!

Life Lessons from Hollywood

Life Lessons from a 30 year career in HollywoodMotivational Speaker‘Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity’

‘From Coventry to Hollywood with the help of Pitman’s Shorthand’. This is the title of one of Marie’s talks describing her journey from England to a rich and rewarding career in the film and television industries in 

Canada and  Hollywood working with major stars including: Dustin Hoffman, Tom Cruise, Robin Williams, Robert DeNiro, Warren Beatty, Al Pacino, Michael Douglas and Anthony Hopkins. It started In Toronto, Canada, where she was a Production Manager in the Drama and Variety Departments of CBC-TV, before she moved to Los Angeles and a job in marketing and film distribution with the Samuel Goldwyn Company. This led to work in film and television production as writer, casting director, publicist, producer and actress. She has worked primarily with director Barry Levinson on many of his films, including the award winning “Good Morning, Vietnam”, “Rain Man”, “Disclosure” and “Avalon”.

Inspiration for all ages to believe in themselves;Motivation – with an attitude of ‘anything’s possible’;Life-affirming stories that uplift;Encouragement to think ‘outside of the box’;Common sense wisdom;Courage to take risks – there will always be a parachute!

Marie RoweMarie has worked with top Hollywood talent, including: Dustin Hoffman, Tom Cruise, Robin Williams, Robert DeNiro, Warren Beatty, Al Pacino, Michael Douglas and Anthony Hopkins.

The Experience Provides

Film Work with Barry LevinsonMarie has worked on most of Levinson’s films in the areas of script development, casting and producing, including the award winning “Good Morning, Vietnam”, “Rain Man” and “Avalon”.  She has also worked closely with many major Hollywood stars, including: Dustin Hoffman, Tom Cruise, Warren Beatty, Robert DeNiro, Robin Williams and Al Pacino – all starring in Levinson projects.  She resumed her acting career when Levinson cast her as Mrs. Ross in his film “Disclosure”, opposite Michael Douglas and Demi Moore. Producer of books on tape / writer and book editor As abridger/producer of books on tape for Dove Audio in Los Angeles, Marie dealt with a variety of books, from the classics and popular novels to psychology, business and the Bible. She abridged Dr. Arthur Janov’s “Primal Scream” and worked closely with him when she abridged his new book “Why You Get Sick How You Get Well.”  She also consulted with author Vincent Bugliosi (Charles Manson’s prosecuting attorney) when she abridged his book “The Phoenix Solution,” about the war on drugs in America. Marie was appointed Vice President of Creative Development for PowerPlay Audiobook Summaries where she was responsible for choosing and summarizing business books on subjects such as Leadership Development, Communication Skills and Creative Thinking.  She then interviewed the authors and produced the studio recording sessions. With her vast experience in script development, Marie continues to help screenwriters with script analysis.  She has also entered the world of personal history and guided autobiography, helping people write their life stories. In addition, she has edited several books for published authors, including literary agent William Gladstone’s “The Twelve” (Vanguard Press), loosely based on his life. She has written industry articles for International Cinematographers’ Guild magazine (ICG) and several other publications as well as contributing chapters for published non-fiction books.

Volunteer WorkAlways available to support up and coming filmmakers, Marie has written, produced and cast films for Women in Film’s charitable programs in Los Angeles, as well as for students at various California universities. She has been a mentor/special friend/big sister to a number of under-privileged children for over 30 years. She developed a mentor program and taught acting with “Colors United – Living Literature” in Watts and Venice High Schools in California. She was Artist in Residence at Hollygrove Children’s Home in Los Angeles (once home to Norma Jean Baker, aka Marilyn Monroe), teaching creative writing and drama, and was responsible for implementing their Media Centre, with heavy emphasis on reading and creative expression. Marie is very proud of the fact that she guided these troubled children into producing two illustrated books of poetry, which greatly increased their self-esteem and was an essential element in their need to be heard.

ABOUT MARIE England to CanadaLearning shorthand at school in Coventry at the age of 13, has led Marie on a fascinating journey. Coincidentally, she also started acting when she was 13, so this number has been lucky for her since both professions have combined to lead her into an illustrious career in Hollywood. However, before this she spent time as a legal secretary and then a Beauty Therapist, while never abandoning her acting career. Marie ultimately picked up a backpack and headed for Europe. In order to support her travels she worked as an au pair in Switzerland, drug abuse secretary for the US Army in Germany (during the Vietnam era), DJ at a disco in Greece, and chambermaid.  She also lived in Israel, experiencing both the Arab and Israeli cultures, and the conflict, first hand.  On her return to England, two years later, she became a Croupier in a famous nightclub in Brighton. Marie subsequently immigrated to Toronto, Canada, where she worked in Public Relations before moving on to television as a Production Manager in the Drama and Variety departments of the CBC.  During this period she also produced special events for the Canadian Government, earning a special accolade from then Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau.  She founded “Radio Women” and produced several human-interest programs for CBC Radio, including Incest – the Great Taboo, resulting from her volunteer work with troubled girls. Canada to HollywoodAs Assistant to Theatre Director, John Hirsch, Marie was fortunate to work on Three Sisters with Maggie Smith at the Stratford Festival Theatre in Canada and with Anthony Hopkins in The Tempest at The Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles.  Feeling an affinity to California, she decided to move to Los Angeles, and thus her career in the film industry began. Her first Hollywood job was with the Samuel Goldwyn Company in film distribution and marketing, which resulted in her next job as publicist for the American Cinema Awards produced by the late David Gest. She was then hired as a staff writer on a TV show – “Divorce Court”-  and assistant to the writers on an HBO series “First and Ten” (with O.J. Simpson).  This led to a position with two comedy writers, Rudy De Luca (a co-writer with Mel Brooks on such films as “Silent Movie” and “High Anxiety”) and George Gipe (co-writer with Steve Martin on “Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid” and “The Man with Two Brains”), helping them develop episodes for an HBO TV series, “The Investigators”.  Barry Levinson directed this series of comedy shows, resulting in Marie’s long association with the writer/director.

Book

This is the life of Marie Rowe filled with dreams and goals. There are surprising adventures on her circuitous route, as she travels from Coventry, England through Europe, Israel, Canada and finally America, with Hollywood in her sights. Marie’s determination and confidence in herself increases her chances of finding work in Hollywood. Readers will learn about the workings of the movie industry and the personalities of some well known actors. It’s a totally absorbing book with many uplifting words of wisdom from Marie’s heart. I was sad when it came to an end…although, as Marie says: “It’s never the end”.Beverly WaltersCalifornia USA

Waterstones

When Marie Rowe left her hometown of Coventry, England, known for the legend of Lady Godiva, and Hitler's destruction of its ancient cathedral, little did she know where her life would lead. She didn't think for a minute that she would end up in California working with the creme de la crème of Hollywood talent. It was certainly a circuitous path, as life journeys often are, but with her attitude of openness and trust. Marie fully embraced every experience, leading to an inspirational wealth of knowledge and inner growth, which she shares in this book. Marie's story is not only intriguing and captivating, but also uplifting and motivating. She encourages us all to live with faith not fear, and to be proud of who we are and what we're capable of achieving. Marie's motto in life: "Security for me, is not knowing what's around the corner."

Amazon.com

Words by Design

I found Marie’s book truly inspirational, thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining. She is a wonderful writer, urging the reader to be brave and follow his/her dream. As a young actor in Coventry, UK in 1960, Marie always aspired to be on the Hollywood stage. Her recipe for success - a positive attitude, hard work and belief in herself - took her, and me, on a bumpy road at times. Her travels took her through Greece, Germany, Israel, Toronto, Canada and finally Los Angeles, where she ultimately achieved a successful and rewarding career in the Hollywood film industry.  I laughed, marvelled and cried at some of her life’s adventures, including her experiences in Greece and Israel; working with Vietnam veterans in Germany; on film sets with the likes of Robin Williams, Tom Cruise, Dustin Hoffmann and Robert DeNiro...and battling cancer.  Volunteering at a children's home as a Special Friend, and mentoring teenagers has also been an important part of Marie's life.   She believes that it is only in giving that we receive; and with her positive attitude that everything will work out for the best, even the hurdles have been a learning and rewarding experience. Ariadna OchrymovychFilmmaker Toronto Canada 

COVENTRY TO HOLLYWOOD(and back!)Memoir by Marie Rowe

This delightful memoir chronicles the author’s astonishing journey from youthful actor in a crumbling marriage to backpacking adventurer to film & tv industry “Jill of all Trades.” Her well-told anecdotes are full of heart, earned wisdom, and Hollywood household names. Smart, hardworking, and plucky, Rowe describes going into encounters expecting the best in people and, more often than not, she’s rewarded with just that experience. The book is physically hefty but reads quickly. Rowe clearly helped a lot of people in the years she chronicled, and offering this fascinating and inspiring memoir to the world is yet another act of service. Highly recommend.L. Moses (aka Cady Ambrose)Author Paris France

Foyles

Amazon.co.uk

I loved this book! Marie Rowe has had such a fascinating life and is an excellent writer. I can't recommend it enough.  She has a wonderful way with words.  I felt like I was right there with her through all of her travels and adventures. It was also extremely interesting to get an inside look into the film-making process.  Very uplifting book too. Dawn AbrahamsonCleveland Ohio USA

Available online at:

Hatchards

COVENTRY TO HOLLYWOOD (and back!) Memoir by Marie Rowe

This is the life of Marie Rowe filled with dreams and goals. There are surprising adventures on her circuitous route, as she travels from Coventry, England through Europe, Israel, Canada and finally America, with Hollywood in her sights. Marie’s determination and confidence in herself increases her chances of finding work in Hollywood. Readers will learn about the workings of the movie industry and the personalities of some well known actors. It’s a totally absorbing book with many uplifting words of wisdom from Marie’s heart. I was sad when it came to an end…although, as Marie says: “It’s never the end”. Beverly WaltersCalifornia USA