Ore Abiona

There’s something fitting about speaking to Luca Pasqualino in transit. Fresh off the release of the second series of Rivals, the actor joins our call from Dublin Airport, Guinness in hand, carrying the kind of effortless composure that has followed him from Skins heartthrob to one of British television’s most quietly enduring presences.

Decorated film director has a new film out. Two-time Academy Award winner Denzel Washington is starring, alongside Golden Globe winner Jeffery Wright and Tony Award winner Wendell Pierce. And with its US theatrical release this week, it’s hard not to feel like something’s missing. There’s been next to no push or promotion for ‘Highest 2 Lowest’, a film that, on paper, should be dominating cultural conversations, and the official film trailer was only 11 days out from release.

When The Buccaneers debuted on Apple  TV, it didn’t take long for it to spark somewhat of a cultural conversation. With its mix of period opulence and modern edge, the series made waves on social media, with praise for its bold soundtrack and fresh take on Edith Wharton’s unfinished novel. Among the strong female ensemble, Australian actress Aubri Ibrag stood out in her breakout role as Lizzy – a headstrong outsider navigating high society’s tight constraints. “Lizzy is so complex,” Aubri explains.