At 18, he worked with Robbie Robertson to score the film Jimmy Hollywood and signed a contract with Geffen Records.
After an unfulfilling career in which he scored television commercials, Cowan returned to school and graduated with a master's degree in film directing.
While at CalArts, he co-wrote and co-directed Breathing Room with John Suits, whom he met at film school.
[2] He also directed, shot, and produced Flower in the Gun Barrel, a documentary that explores the complexities of forgiveness and reconciliation in post genocide Rwanda.
[4] With New Artists Alliance, which he formed with Suits, he produced Bad Milo!, The Scribbler, and Cheap Thrills.