Power of Story: How Docs Changed Change

Over the course of the independent film movement, there’s been a major transformation in the landscape of nonfiction filmmaking. We’ve seen the role documentary work can play: from changing societies and communicating diverse human experiences to addressing political and social issues and entertaining audiences with extraordinary and inspiring stories. Meet three figures who have been at the center of changing the face of documentary film, expanding its audience, and redefining its impact.

Nick Fraser has worked as a reporter and television producer and has been the commissioning editor of BBC's Storyville since it started in 1997. Storyville films have won more than two hundred awards, including several Academy Awards, Griersons, Emmys, and Peabodys as well as a Sundance Jury Prize.

Sheila Nevins, president of HBO Documentary Films, is a highly regarded producer credited with nearly one thousand documentary films, which have earned numerous Academy Awards, Emmys, Peabodys, and, most recently, a DGA Honor. During her long tenure at HBO, Nevins has cultivated many new talents and set the standard for cutting-edge documentaries.

Soledad O’Brien (moderator) is an anchor and special correspondent for CNN and has reported breaking news from around the globe in addition to producing award-winning, critically acclaimed documentary films.

Robert Redford is recognized the world over for the roles he has played and the projects he has directed or produced throughout a distinguished stage and film career. He is an environmentalist and advocate for social responsibility and political involvement and has nurtured countless innovative voices through his nonprofit Sundance Institute and Film Festival.