One of the most controversial directors in Hollywood, Oliver Stone has made films that are remarkable for both the way in which their subject matter is handled and the degree of controversy such handling inspires. A producer, screenwriter, and actor on a variety of films, Stone is consistently identified with his more political works, including Platoon, and Nixon. Despite this association with political films, Stone has stated that he considers his films "first and foremost to be dramas about individuals in personal struggles," and that he believes himself to be a dramatist rather than a political filmmaker. Stone has received Academy Awards for Midnight Express (1978), Platoon (1986) and Born on the Fourth of July (1989), and his directed films have been nominated for 31 Academy Awards. Stone’s most recent project, "The Untold History of the United States," is a 10-part documentary series focusing on under-reported events that crucially shaped the last 60 years of America's history. Narrated, co-written, and directed by Stone, the series debunks some of America's heroes by restating the facts, while crediting some heroes previously lost to history.

With support from UM Screen Arts& Cultures, Ann Arbor Film Festival.

Established with the generous support of alumna Penny W. Stamps, the Speaker Series brings respected emerging and established artists/designers from a broad spectrum of media to the School to conduct a public lecture and engage with students, faculty, and the larger University and Ann Arbor communities. Additional support is provided by our media sponsor, Michigan Radio.