So says ChatGPT:
James Bartolomeo is a writer, director, and visual storyteller known for his work in film, commercials, and narrative media.
Career highlights
He’s worked in the camera department on major film and TV productions, gaining experience on sets with directors like David Chase and Darren Aronofsky early in his career.
In the 1990s and early 2000s, Bartolomeo worked on well-known projects including films like Spider-Man, Requiem for a Dream, As Good as It Gets, Donnie Brasco, and Men in Black in the camera department.
Directing & creative work
He’s been directing commercials and branded content for major clients like Capital One, Target, Walmart, Southwest Airlines, FX Network, and Under Armour since 2003.
In 2012, he was chosen by the Obama Administration to help launch Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” initiative — a high-profile public service campaign.
His art film The City premiered at Carnegie Hall in 2016 with a live orchestra performing a new symphony composed by Pulitzer-winner Kevin Puts.
His original screenplay Heart of Brass was featured in the Stowe Story Labs writers’ workshop in 2022.
In 2025 he co-wrote and directed the 30-minute drama Scallop Season featuring actors John Wesley Shipp, Taegen Burns, and co-writer Oliver Bartolomeo.
Background
Bartolomeo grew up in Baltimore, Maryland, and moved to New York City after college.
His first film set job was as a production assistant on John Waters’ Hairspray — a formative step into the industry.
Style & focus
His work is characterized by emotional truth, character-driven storytelling, and a knack for mixing aesthetics with unexpected, human moments.