**Oliver Stone** (New York, 1946) is an influential American director, screenwriter, and producer. A veteran of the Vietnam War, his experiences have profoundly shaped much of his cinematic output.

He is renowned for directing masterpieces about the Vietnam War such as *Platoon* (1986) and *Born on the Fourth of July* (1989), both awarded the Academy Award for Best Director. He has explored political conspiracies and American history in films like *JFK* (1991), and social and economic issues with *Wall Street* (1987).

Stone's style is distinctive for its dramatic intensity, its often sharp criticism of American politics and society, and its unconventional approach to historical narrative. Often controversial, his works reflect a deep vein of activism and a commitment to shedding light on uncomfortable aspects of reality.