The films of screenwriter Bill Broyles have time and again cemented themselves as classics of American cinema. Following his debut with the acclaimed series ‘China Beach’, came films including ‘Apollo 13’, ‘Cast Away’ and ‘Jarhead’. Broyles’ writing for the screen has been informed at least in part by an eventful personal life. As a young man, he was a US Marine Corps platoon commander in the Vietnam War, an experience he recalls in the Apple TV+ series ‘Vietnam: The War That Changed America’. He was subsequently a journalist, launching ‘Texas Monthly’ and editing ‘Newsweek’ before heading to Hollywood. Broyles sits down with Andrew Mueller for a contemplative look back on his successes and failures, as well as reflecting on the best and worst aspects of American culture.

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Joe Wright is the acclaimed film director known for single-take shots, redefining cinematic genres and updating classic narratives. He first appeared on the global stage with his feature directorial debut, ‘Pride & Prejudice’, starring Keira Knightley, followed by a string of celebrated releases that include the seven-time Academy Award-nominated drama ‘Atonement’, the action-packed thriller ‘Hanna’ and the biographical drama ‘Darkest Hour’. As one of the more technically adventurous and unpredictable directors of his generation, Wright’s latest project might be his most ambitious: a new eight-part series documenting the rise of a dictator, ‘Mussolini: Son Of The Century’. It has already stirred debate across Europe and beyond since its release, and is regarded by many critics as the best show of 2025 so far.

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Ludovico Einaudi is an Italian pianist and composer known for his unique blend of classical, folk and modern influences. His iconic albums, film scores and record-breaking concerts have made him one of the world’s most influential living composers. His new 13-track album, ‘The Summer Portraits’, is now available and Einaudi is also gearing up for a five-night residency at the Royal Albert Hall in London – the longest continuous headline run by a pianist at the historic venue. Sitting down with Monocle’s Laura Kramer, Einaudi speaks about his inspirations, his love of photography and paintings, and how he balances modern digital convenience with the beauty of analog technology in his creative process.

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