Bryan Cardinale-Powell

Bryan Cardinale-Powell serves as Associate Professor and Chair of Film in the Department of Moving Image Arts at Oklahoma City University's College of Arts and Sciences. With extensive professional experience in film production prior to academia, he brings practical industry knowledge to his academic leadership and teaching responsibilities.

His educational background includes:

• M.S. (MFA) in Film Production from Boston University
• A.B. in Economics, cum laude, from Xavier University
• Additional graduate work in film history and theory at Georgia State University

Professor Cardinale-Powell's scholarly work focuses on American independent cinema and personal documentary, with particular expertise in British director Mike Leigh's filmmaking methods. His research explores the intersection of cinematic form, social context, and production techniques, examining how theoretical frameworks manifest in practical filmmaking. He has published extensively on directorial analysis, film history, and innovative pedagogical approaches to media education.

His recent publications demonstrate consistent thematic focus on directorial studies (particularly Mike Leigh's work), historical analysis of film industries, and creative approaches to film education. The articles collectively reveal his dual expertise in both theoretical film studies and practical production techniques.

His notable professional achievements include:

• Southeast Region Emmy Award
• GABBY Award from the Georgia Association of Broadcasters
• Telly Award

Beyond research, Professor Cardinale-Powell actively mentors students through his role as Director of the OCU Film Institute and coordinator of the deadCenter University Educators' Forum. His administrative leadership includes chairing the University Budget Committee and PCAS Promotion & Tenure Committee, while serving on the Faculty Senate Executive Committee and multiple curriculum development groups.

He maintains strong community connections through his photography work for TheatreOCU, advisory roles with the Oklahoma Arts Institute Film & Video Board, and extensive work with young filmmakers at Oklahoma Children's Theatre and the OK Cine Latino Youth Film Workshop. His creative practice includes recent film direction projects and photography exhibitions at the Nona Jean Hulsey Gallery.