"Hoop Dreams" (1994)

Two Chicago teens play against the odds in the world of high school basketball. Practically ignored by the Oscars, it became one of the most highly acclaimed documentaries ever.

"Liberty! The American Revolution" (1997)

Six-part series used acclaimed actors (Philip Seymour Hoffman, Steve Zahn) to teach history lessons. Received a Peabody Award.

"Benjamin Franklin" (2002)

Revealed the title character was more than just a kite flier and got an Emmy for outstanding nonfiction special.

"The New Medicine" (2006)

Looked at how the mind may be an important antidote to what ails you.

"Dolley Madison" (2010)

Told the story of the groundbreaking former first lady without once resorting to jokes about snack cakes.