Mark Elijah Rosenberg is a multifaceted filmmaker, writer, editor, and producer who has had a profound and lasting impact on the industry. With a career spanning multiple facets, he has made a name for himself as a trailblazer in the world of film.
Mark's inaugural foray into feature film direction, Approaching the Unknown, is a cerebral and introspective science fiction endeavour that delves into the very boundaries of human existence, prompting profound contemplation and introspection. This critically acclaimed film garnered significant recognition, being handpicked for the prestigious Sundance Screenwriters Lab, and subsequently, it received a multitude of accolades, including the esteemed NHK Screenwriting Award and the Indian Paintbrush Award, a testament to Mark's burgeoning talent as a storyteller.
Mark, a multifaceted creative force, has made a significant impact in the entertainment industry beyond his notable work on Approaching the Unknown. He has also ventured into the realm of direction, co-production, and story creation for Year Million, a groundbreaking six-hour mini-series that masterfully blends fiction and documentary elements to explore the profound effects of technology on the trajectory of humanity's future.
This ambitious project, which premiered on National Geographic, has garnered widespread acclaim and recognition, earning Mark a nomination for two prestigious Emmy Awards.
Mark has a predilection for modestly budgeted, intimate filmmaking endeavors. His prolific output has included a multitude of short films, showcasing his multifaceted skills as a director, editor, and creative force behind the camera. Moreover, his impressive credentials also include serving as a producer-editor on the esteemed WNYE television show IMNY, a program that garnered an Emmy Award for its exceptional content.
Mark, a native New Yorker, embarked on his creative journey by earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from the esteemed Vassar College. As the visionary Founder and Artistic Director of Rooftop Films, Mark's passion for filmmaking culminated in the establishment of the organization in 1997. Initially, he began showcasing his movies on his rooftop, a humble yet innovative beginning that would eventually blossom into one of the most renowned film companies in the country.
Under Mark's inspired leadership, Rooftop Films has evolved into a trailblazing entity, renowned for its unconventional events and unparalleled commitment to celebrating cinema. Each year, the organization presents hundreds of films to a devoted audience of over 40,000 attendees, cementing its status as a premier destination for film enthusiasts.
Mark has not only extended his expertise to the realm of publishing, but has also authored numerous articles on the intricacies of filmmaking and programming, showcasing his versatility and depth of knowledge in these respective fields. Furthermore, he has had the distinction of being a guest lecturer at several esteemed institutions, including Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and the University of Texas, where he has shared his insights and expertise with students and faculty alike. Additionally, Mark has demonstrated his commitment to the arts by serving on grants panels for various organizations, providing valuable guidance and support to those seeking to bring their creative projects to life. Moreover, he is a member of the Advisory Council for Fractured Atlas, a testament to his dedication to promoting and nurturing artistic expression.
Mark is an avid enthusiast of recreational athletics, devoting a significant portion of his leisure hours to honing his skills as an infielder for the Ramblers amateur baseball team. Additionally, he is a talented receiver for a nationally-traveling NYGFL flag football team, showcasing his agility and coordination on the gridiron. Furthermore, Mark's domestic life is filled with joy and companionship, as he is the loving father of a cherished canine companion named Dizzy, who undoubtedly brings immense delight to his daily routine. Moreover, Mark is fortunate to share his life with his wife, Stephanie Skaff, a multifaceted individual who is both a musician and a writer, possessing a creative flair that undoubtedly enriches their relationship.