International Film Festival in New York

A behind-the-scenes look at the filming of Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman for television.

One of America's best-known architects is profiled, with emphasis on his early career and his later movement away from minimalism.

A biography of the well-known social critic and author Katherine Anne Porter.

An in-depth treatment of the life and sensibilities of the innovative silent film superstar Charlie Chaplin.

An in-depth treatment of the life and sensibilities of the innovative silent film superstar Charlie Chaplin.

An in-depth treatment of the life and sensibilities of the innovative silent film superstar Charlie Chaplin.

A biography of Billie Holiday, one of America's most unique and emotional jazz singers and the tragic end of her life at an early age.

The musical career of the long-time conductor of New York City's Metropolitan Opera as reflected by following his normal working day on camera.

One of America's signature classical composers and the unique elements he incorporated into his pieces.

The strikingly realistic and unsentimental paintings of the noted artist from Philadelphia.

A profile of the noted American artist originally produced to celebrate her 90th birthday.

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A profile of the literary work of Isaac Bashevis Singer and his influence on preserving Jewish culture and the Yiddish language.

A retrospective on the rich legacy of cinema directed by Wyler with clips and commentary.

A trip through the life and works of the piano virtuoso Arthur Rubinstein conducted by his son John.

A story of two talented personalities, Alwin Nikolais and Murray Louis, and their collaborations in the world of dance.

The music of the unique American master composer (as well as his brother Ira) with insights from his collaborators and friends.

An installment that shows the author and illustrator at work staging a production of a Mozart opera.

An ode to the work of the African American theater group founded in the late 60s and its impact on the performing arts.

The evolution of the novelist and his impact on other artists and American culture.

A history of the famed social gathering of leaders, intellectuals, writers, and artists.

The story of the silent-era star who brought brilliance and originality to physical comedy.

The famed career of the silent movie actress and an examination of the role of women in film during that era of American cinema.

Detailed biography of the renowned jazz performer/conductor Duke Ellington and his band, including his easy-going grace and sophistication.

A retrospective of the urban photography of Andre Kertesz, told by tracking him in the final years before his death.

Franklin's life - from gospel to Grammy Awards.

The murals and politics of the famed Mexican artist Diego Rivera.

A dramatic recreation of the work and career of a renowned sculptor, Augustus Saint-Gaudens

The whimsical work of the beloved playwright.

The story of "method" acting.

The life of the renowned Broadway director and arts critic, as well as co-founder of New York's Group Theatre.

A retrospective on the career of one of America's finest teachers of acting technique.

The evolution and extraordinary musical creations of the nation's best-known jazz musician.

The noted author, his battles against racism, and its expression in his books.

A biographical documentary on the short-lived career of brilliant jazz musician Charlie Parker. Features his only television appearance and rare concert footage. Includes cameos by such greats as Dizzy Gillespie, Thelonius Monk, and Charles Mingus.

The mind of a famed neo-abstractionist painter as it expresses itself on canvas.

The biting comedic satire of Mort Sahl and his rise to prominence in the 1960s.

The work of the provacative photographer for Life magazine.

Profile of the comedy standout from the silent era who is often mentioned third behind Chaplin and Keaton.

The movies of the Academy Award-winning motion picture maker.

The life of the famous director and scriptwriter, from his writings for the stage to his Hollywood acclaim.

A documentary that follows the varied career of the noted film director.

Interviews and film clips document the hard-hitting film work of Scorsese.

The career of Porter as seen through filmed versions of his work and commentary from performance stars.

The fascinating life of the model for the "hard-boiled" radio and television journalist.

A documentary on the 50 year career of a legendary producer of recording artists and musicians.

The work of an acting coach and instructor who had a profound impact on the American stage.

The outrageously odd and original compositions of an avant-garde musician.

A chronicle of the extraordinary actress and those who were influenced by her universally-respected work.

Inside the workings of the mecca of "method acting" techniques.

The life of the creative and imaginative physicist and his thoughts and writings after coming to the United States.

A look at the soulful interpretations of the remarkable singer, mostly through filmed performances.

The artistic career of a painter and sculptor who defined western art and influenced America's ideas of the west.

The story of an American violin virtuoso, Yehudi Menuhin.

A biography of the artist Motherwell and the growth of abstract expressionism in New York City.

The obstacles overcome in the magnificent career of the famed musician.

Documentary on the writer who made his way back from the entertainment industry "blacklist" and became an acclaimed success.

The career and collaborations of Simon's 30 years in the music business.

An examination of the thinking and techniques used by one of America's most-celebrated movie makers.

A look at the innovator of primary motion picture techniques that are still important today and the controversy surrounding his beliefs.

The life of the clarinetist and band leader known as the "King of Swing".

A documentary of the masterful American dancer.

The life of the famed commentator on the American condition and his style of humor.

The plays of a master of portraying human relations and the shades of love and hate.

The rise of one of the world's most powerful and accomplished tenors and his great performances.

An examination of the author's life and a look at the specifics of some of his written works.

A documentary on the man who pioneered the use of early television for dramatic storytelling.

A retrospective on the author's writings including commentary from his professional associates.

“All photographs are accurate. None of them is the truth.”

–Richard Avedon

The notable images of one of the nation's most famous fashion photographers.

An examination of the visionary and thinker and his most famous ideas.

A chronicle of the 1950s comedy team and the short-lived but memorable career of the duo.

A biography of the famed singer including her first big breaks in show business.

A portrait of a masterful and versatile member of the entertainment industry for decades.

Biography of a multi-media artist and his ground-breaking works of artistic expression.

A feature on the career of the famed television host and how he entered and left the TV industry.

The free-flowing design and sculpture of a man influenced by Asian sensibilities.

The poetry of the noted "beat generation" poet and the post World War II lifestyle and values reflected within his works.

The origins and growth of a unique form of live entertainment in the 20th century.

A profile of writer-director Billy Wilder.

Profile of one of the major leaders of new directions in rock music.

The work of Don Hewitt in the CBS news department and the story of the long-running new magazine 60 Minutes.

A biography of the acclaimed sculptor known for his mobiles and large public art pieces.

Chronicle of the achievements of the noted composer and conductor of popular and classical music.

An in-depth look at the famous art and caricatures of Al Hirschfeld.

Documentary about the life of Paul Robeson: actor, scholar, and rights activist.

The boundaries broken by the innovative experimental artist.

The politics and writings of the noted 20th century woman.

A profile of an author as mysterious as some of his well-known detective stories.

A story of the women who created some of Broadway's most memorable songs.

A chronicle of the clash between two film-making legends when they tried to work together in the 1940s.

A presentation of the award-winning PBS series American Masters, Norman Rockwell: Painting America etches a warm and indelible portrait of one of America's most beloved artists.

Profile of the well-known jazz singer, from early band performances and "scat" to her solo career.

The story of a choreographer who contributed much to the style of American performance dance in the modern era.

A biography of one of the first African-American actors to regularly star in mainstream movies.

An installment on the violin master with comments from his musical colleagues.

A chronicle of the artistic expression of the counter-culture movement.

Profile of the actor who rose from niche westerns to movie industry fame and influence.

The American writer Norman Mailer and his bristling personality - in his own words.

A profile of the half-century career of George Cukor, one of the most beloved motion picture directors and producers, and the impact he had on those in the industry.

The incredible career of Lucille Ball, from youth through the movies, from television star to media mogul. Some of the personalities that comment in this film include Fran Drescher, Van Johnson, Dick Martin, Edie Adams, and Carol Burnett. This episode won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Non-Fiction Program.

A profile of reggae superstar Bob Marley (1945-1981), featuring performance and newsreel footage, still photos and interviews with the singer, members of his family and musicians, and music-industry execs he worked with.

Documentary following the Hollywood star Gregory Peck on a tour of speaking engagements, as well as at home with his family in America and Italy. His career is illustrated by extracts from such movies as To Kill a Mockingbird, Roman Holiday, Cape Fear and McArthur.

Biography of a photographer and leader in bringing modern art works to the galleries of the United States.

A documentary on a photographer who spent decades trying to record the authentic Native American life.

The story of the dreams and accomplishments of Samuel Goldwyn, a determined immigrant who founded a Hollywood movie dynasty.

An examination of the themes and characters of the noted novelist.

The remarkable songs of America's best-known composer of music for the stage.

Profile of the career of the ground-breaking musician and producer.

The story of how Sam Phillips founded the record company that pulled together some of the early legends of American Rock 'n' Roll.

A biography of one of the 20th century's most innovative choreographers.

The impact of African-American author Ellison on the state of culture and literature in the United States.

The colorful life of the choreographer and performer who has often been acknowledged as America's most powerful and athletic dancer.

An up-close look at the songs and lifestyle of the popular country western personality.

A biography of the influential actor and director of silent film classics and his contributions to character expression and make-up effects.

A retrospective on the history and work of the famous American school for academic mastery of the performing arts.

Portrait of an American woman who helped pioneer the fresher and simpler cuisine that emerged in California in the later 1970s.

The life of the folk singer and songwriting artist and the evolution of her work over three decades.

Biography of the legendary blues player from the deep South who's music contributed to the origins of rock-and-roll.

A documentary on the famous war photographer and the life he led.

A spotlight on the eclectic and often humorous American writer and his many accomplishments.

The dispute between one of America's most influential playwrights and a respected movie director over actions taken during the "red scare" of the 1950s.

The highs and lows of the life of James Brown, the colorful and controversial "Godfather of Soul".

“Eternally elegant” screen superstar Cary Grant (1904-86) is profiled. Included are clips from his films and interviews with ex-wife Betsy Drake and widow Barbara Grant. There are also comments from biographers and film critics, and costars Eva Marie Saint and Martin Landau. Helen Mirren is the narrator, and Jeremy Northam provides the voice of Grant.

A retrospective on the life and work of George Balanchine, a founder of American ballet.

A detailed examination of the celebrated vocalist's career, from her amazing successes to her self-doubts and personal problems.

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The brief but impressive career of the man most responsible for defining what is modern "country music".

Julia Child was not a natural-born cook - when she married, she could barely boil an egg. But she fell in love with French food, and soon enrolled at the Cordon Bleu where she learned the great tradition of Classical French cuisine. Later, with two French women, she devoted years to writing a manuscript finally published as "Mastering the Art of French Cooking" which became a culinary classic and sold over one million copies. Warm and exuberant, Julia was a natural television star. In 1963, she appeared on public television in "The French Chef," a cooking series unlike anything yet seen on TV. Scooping up a spilled potato pancake or coaxing a reluctant soufflé, Julia was not afraid of making mistakes. Soon a nation fed on Shake n' Bake and Tang would be experimenting with quiche Lorraine and boeuf bourgignon and cooking would become a national pastime. This is the story of Julia's two great loves-love for her husband Paul and for cooking. Through an interview with Julia herself, filmed in her fabled kitchen, and rare images from the photo collection of Paul Child and from family photo albums, Julia Child is revealed as few have seen her before in this tribute and testament to a great American icon.

The brief but bright career of the cinema star who inspired an entire generation.

A profile of the musical group of African-American women who uniquely blend many cultural and historical themes in their work.

The life of the famous movie director as told through the eyes of his son (who is also a director).

A chronicle of the famed comic's life and success, from humble accountant to world-famous funny man.

An analyis of the writings of the early 20th century prairie writer and the inner conflicts they exposed.

The famous author and his colorful life as told through his writings, letters, and interviews with family and scholars.

A journey through the poetry and music of Bob Dylan.

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John Ford and John Wayne — a friendship and professional collaboration that spanned 50 years, changed each others’ lives, changed the movies, and in the process, changed the way America saw itself. It was a relationship that reflected all the elements and all the paradoxes of 20th century America — generosity of spirit, abuse of power, a sense of loyalty, and a restless nationalism that didn’t quite know what to do with itself.

Archival performances, home movies and interviews illustrate singer Nat King Cole's achievements during a 30-year music and television career.

The life and times of the hard traveling music-man Woody Guthrie.

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Walter Cronkite was the man who gave us the news for two tumultuous decades in the late 20th century. As historian, journalist and author David Halberstam says in praise of the great CBS newsman: "Most Americans really learned of the evening news and learned of Vietnam and learned of the civil rights movement and learned of Watergate with Walter Cronkite as the man who ushered it into their homes. And did it with great professionalism over a very long time and was I think absolutely true to himself." In AMERICAN MASTERS Walter Cronkite: Witness to History, a documentary narrated by Katie Couric, historians, fellow journalists and CBS colleagues appraise the career of the man who was called "the most trusted man in America." CBS writer and commentator Andy Rooney, legendary producer/director Don Hewitt, correspondents Mike Wallace, Morley Safer, Lesley Stahl and Barbara Walters, columnists Molly Ivins and Helen Thomas, Senator John McCain and President Jimmy Carter guide the viewer from Cronkite's early days as a foreign correspondent in World War II through his thirty-year career at CBS News.

Ric Burns' absorbing profile of Andy Warhol (1928-87) traces the pop icon's rise from poverty to an artist who, said art critic Dave Hickey, “changed the world”.

Ric Burns' absorbing profile of Andy Warhol (1928-87) traces the pop icon's rise from poverty to an artist who, said art critic Dave Hickey, “changed the world”.

Frank Gehry loves to sketch. It is the beginning of his architectural process. From Gehry’s sketches flow the models, one after another, each a refinement, that will eventually become finished buildings unlike any others in the architectural world. It is this sketch quality, what he calls the “tentativeness, the messiness,” that Gehry clings to as a way of guarding against formula or repetition. And it is this sketch quality that Sydney Pollack was so keen to explore in the film SKETCHES OF FRANK GEHRY.

This film traces the artistic self-realization of Annie Leibovitz, from childhood through the death of her beloved friend, Susan Sontag, and includes snippets of Leibovitz's last visual memories of Sontag. The film traces the arc of her photographic life, her aspirations to artistry, and the trajectory of her career through phases that included the tumultuous sixties in Berkeley, CA., touring with the Rolling Stones, a mentorship by Hunter S. Thompson, and, later, capturing the last candid moments of John Lennon's life with Yoko Ono. It closes with her reflections on life, children, and the the wake of her relationship with Sontag. The archival material presented here is invaluable for framing an understanding of this immeasurably influential visual artist.

Contemporary scholars and novelists give fresh perspectives on some of the great American written works of the 20th century.

How Ahmet Ertegun built a recording industry empire in the decades after World War II.

The musical career and startling technical innovations of a 20th century guitar and sound recording master.

The story of an internationally renowned production and set designer for the greatest opera houses in the world, a music lover who is going deaf.

A documentary on the wildlife art of an early American naturalist who achieved long-lasting acclaim.

The musical career of one of America's most enduring popular singers.

A portrait of the dramatic work of a Mexican-born muralist and artist, Jose Clemente Orozco, as he made his mark on the United States.

The motivations behind the man who created one of America's most beloved comic strips.

The career of funny woman Carol Burnett, from Broadway to television stardom.

The folk music of a world-famous performer as interested in social change as in the history of American roots music.

A recounting of the versatile and controversial work of one of the most flamboyant African-American writers from the first half of the 20th century.

An in-depth profile of the talented but troubled star who brought more contemporary issues to soul music.

Clint Eastwood narrates the history of Warner Bros., which opens with "You Ain't Heard Nothin' Yet (1923-35)," about the studio's first years, when its biggest star was Rin Tin Tin. Also remembered is its move into gritty fare, featuring James Cagney, Edward G. Robinson and Barbara Stanwyck, and its musicals. Included: "The Jazz Singer," "Public Enemy," "42nd Street," "Baby Face" and "Little Caesar"; interviews with Busby Berkeley, Alfred Hitchcock, Robinson and William Wellman.

"Good War, Uneasy Peace (1935-50)" focuses on how Warner Bros. responded to the Great Depression and World War II, when such stars as Humphrey Bogart, Bette Davis and Errol Flynn graced its pictures. Also: the post-war film noirs are explored. Included: "Casablanca," "Now, Voyager," "The Adventures of Robin Hood," "Kings Row" and "White Heat"; interviews with James Cagney, Howard Hawks, Ronald Reagan and Alexis Smith. Clint Eastwood narrates.

"A New Reality (1950-70)" details how Warner Bros. fought back against TV with such innovations as CinemaScope and 3-D, as well as with such new stars as Doris Day and James Dean. Also: how a battle between Jack and Harry Warner changed the studio's direction. Included: "A Streetcar Named Desire," "East of Eden," "Cool Hand Luke," "A Face in the Crowd" and "My Fair Lady"; interviews with Warren Beatty, Elia Kazan, Kim Hunter, Arthur Penn and Carroll Baker. Clint Eastwood narrates.

"Woodstock Notions (1970-89)" recalls the creative renaissance of Warner Bros. during the 1970s and '80s. Included: "Mean Streets," "The Exorcist," "Superman: The Movie," "The Shining" and "Body Heat"; interviews with Dustin Hoffman, Clint Eastwood, Jack Nicholson and Robert Redford. Eastwood narrates.

"The Big Tent (1980-Present)" chronicles the success of Warner Bros. during the 1980s, '90s and 2000s, including Clint Eastwood's Oscar winners, "The Matrix" franchise and the Harry Potter films. Included: "The Color Purple," "Unforgiven," "Mystic River," "Michael Clayton" and "The Departed"; interviews with Tim Burton, George Clooney, Martin Scorsese and Steven Spielberg. Eastwood narrates

An intimate portrait of the four Warner brothers and their rise to movie-making greatness.

The work of the American dance pioneer and choreographer who brought ballet techniques to the Broadway stage.

Scott Hicks' acclaimed 2007 film on a year in the life of the modern experimental composer.

From the first Chinese-American film produced in 1916, to Ang Lee's triumphant Brokeback Mountain nine decades later, this films brings together a group of actors, writers, directors -- and iconic film images -- to examine Chinese contributions to an industry that was often ignorant and dismissive about race. Such artists as Wayne Wang, Joan Chen, David Henry Hwang, Nancy Kwan and Amy Tan share their experiences of being "the other." These stories and film clips from more than 90 films -- some dating back to the 1890s -- weave a rich tapestry and complex history.

The work of the legendary rock musician and his artistic and intellectual transitions over the decades.

A retrospective on the famed radio personality and author centering on A Prairie Home Companion.

An account of Dalton Trumbo, a powerful motion picture screenwriter who refused to succumb to the stigma of the Hollywood "blacklist" and rose to prominence once again.

The folk music career of Joan Baez and the progressive movements she both participated in and influenced.

The author of 'Little Women' is an almost universally recognized name whose reputation as a morally upstanding New England spinster masked a literary double life.

Sam Cooke put the spirit of the black church into popular music, creating a new American sound and setting into motion a chain of events that forever altered the course of popular music and race relations in America.

The work of the innovative Chinese-American architect with a focus on his efforts to build an historical museum in China.

A documentary that traces the roots of Jim Morrison's iconic rock group and their live and studio performances.

Merle Haggard actually lived the rambling, gambling, love ‘em and leave ‘em, often brutal life that remains the bedrock of country music lyrics.

A feature on the Cuban-born bassist Israel "Cachao" Lopez, an internationally renowned musician, composer, and pioneer of Mambo.

Martin Scorsese pays tribute to the life and work of noted American film director Elia Kazan.

A look at the period of time musician John Lennon and his family spent living in New York City during the 1970s.

A fresh look at the life of a singular pianist and poet who made an international impact with his music and recordings.

A retrospective on the laid-back actor who has entertained audiences for close to 40 years.

Focusing on musicians ranging from James Taylor and Carol King to Elton John.

This documentary explores the life and legacy of America’s first environmentalist and Sierra Club’s founder. Mountaineers portray Muir in reenactments filmed in Yosemite, the Sierra Nevada, Alaska, Wisconsin, and Alhambra Valley.

A behind-the-scenes lok at the internationally-renowned conductor of New York's Metropolitan Opera.

Told in big themes and bold colors with blistering sound, Pearl Jam Twenty chronicles the years leading up to the band’s formation, the chaos that ensued soon-after being catapulted into superstardom, their step back from the spotlight with the instinct of self-preservation, and the creation of a trusted circle that would surround them — giving way to a work culture that would sustain them. Part concert film, part insider hang, part testimonial to the power of music and uncompromising artists, the film celebrates the freedom that allows Pearl Jam to make music without losing themselves, their fans, or the music lovers they’ve always been. Pearl Jam Twenty features new interviews with original band members Jeff Ament, Stone Gossard, Mike McCready, and Eddie Vedder, drummer Matt Cameron, and friend and Soundgarden singer/guitarist Chris Cornell, as well as archival performance and interview footage of Mother Love Bone, Pearl Jam, Temple of the Dog, Kurt Cobain, and Neil Young.

Bill T. Jones, the recipient of a prestigious MacArthur "genius" grant and winner of two Tony Awards, has been named "an irreplaceable treasure" by the The Dance Heritage Coalition. Above all, he is a socially conscious choreographer who never shies away from controversy -- tackling thorny subjects such as race and politics with elegance and intelligence, artistry and originality.

A film that traces the life and accomplishments of America's unique and recognized comedian/writer/filmmaker.

Iconic writer, director, actor, comedian, and musician Woody Allen allowed his life and creative process to be documented on-camera for the first time. With this unprecedented access, Emmy®-winning, Oscar®-nominated filmmaker Robert Weide followed the notoriously private film legend over a year and a half to create the ultimate film biography.

From 1941 to 1978, this husband-and-wife team brought unique talents to their partnership. He was an architect by training, she was a painter and sculptor. Together they are considered America’s most important and influential designers, whose work helped, literally, shape the second half of the 20th century and remains culturally vital and commercially popular today. They are, perhaps, best remembered for their mid-century modern furniture, built from novel materials like molded plywood, fiberglass-reinforced plastic, bent metal wire and aluminum – offering consumers beautiful, functional, yet inexpensive products. Revered for their designs and fascinating as individuals, Charles and Ray have risen to iconic status in American culture. But their influence on significant events and movements in American life – from the development of modernism, to the rise of the computer age – has been less widely understood. Charles and Ray Eames are now profiled as part of American Masters. A film by Jason Cohn and Bill Jersey. Narrated by James Franco.

Three-time Emmy®-nominated filmmaker Kenneth Bowser examines one of American history’s most iconic folk music heroes and political agitators. Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune is a revealing biography of a conflicted, truth-seeking troubadour who, with guitar in hand, stood up for what he believed in and challenged us all to do the same.

A singer, dancer and bandleader, Cab led one of the most popular African American big bands during the jazz and swing eras of the 1930s-40s, with Harlem’s famous Cotton Club as his home stage. Best known for his “Hi de hi de hi de ho” refrain from signature song “Minnie the Moocher,” portrayal of Sportin’ Life in Porgy and Bess (1952), and role in The Blues Brothers (1980), Cab influenced countless performers, including Michael and Janet Jackson, and many of today’s hip-hop artists.

Margaret Mitchell: American Rebel engages leading historians, biographers and personal friends to reveal a complex woman who experienced profound identity shifts during her life and struggled with the two great issues of her day: the changing role of women and the liberation of African Americans.

One of the biggest bestsellers of all time, To Kill a Mockingbird (1960) is the first and only novel by a young woman named Nelle Harper Lee, who once said that she wanted to be South Alabama’s Jane Austen. Lee won the Pulitzer Prize and became a mystery when she stopped speaking to press in 1964. More than 50 years after its publication, To Kill a Mockingbird has been translated into more than 40 languages worldwide, still sells nearly one million copies each year and is required reading in most American classrooms, making it quite possibly the most influential American novel of the 20th century. The 1962 film version, starring Gregory Peck as Atticus Finch, won a trio of Academy Awards. Harper Lee: Hey, Boo chronicles how this beloved novel came to be written, provides the context and history of the Deep South where it is set, and documents the many ways the novel has changed minds and shaped history. For teachers, students or fans of the classic, Hey, Boo enhances the experience of reading To Kill a Mockingbird.

Quite possibly the biggest star that television has ever produced, Carson commanded, at his peak, a nightly audience of 15 million viewers – double the current audience of Leno and Letterman – combined. Rarely giving interviews, Carson chose to remain a very private man whose public persona made him an American superstar.

For much of the 20th century, Sandburg was synonymous with the American experience, a spokesman on behalf of the people. One of the most successful writers in the English language, Sandburg was a three-time Pulitzer Prize-winner for his poetry as well as part of his six-volume Lincoln biography. Yet, after his death, Sandburg’s literary legacy faded and his poems, once taught in schools across America, were dismissed under the weight of massive critical attack.

David Geffen’s far-reaching influence — as agent, manager, record industry mogul, Hollywood and Broadway producer, and philanthropist — has helped shape American popular culture for the past four decades.

Documenting how the Joffrey revolutionized American ballet – combining modern dance with classic technique, art with social statement and rock music with traditional choreography – this film is a palpable expression of Robert Joffrey and Gerald Arpino’s vision and artistry.

Despite not being a household name today, Sister Rosetta Tharpe is one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. Her flamboyance, skill, and showmanship on the newly electrified guitar played a vital role in the conception of Rock & Roll as a genre of music. Featuring archival performances and using new interviews with fellow musicians, producers, friends, and colleagues, this film tells the story of a talented and determined woman that introduces spiritual passion of her gospel music background into Rock & Roll. Learn more about Sister Rosetta Tharpe, her life story, and lasting artistic legacy.

A profile of literary lion Philip Roth. Interviewed at his New York City apartment and Connecticut farmhouse, he reflects on his upbringing in Newark, N.J., writing process and psychoanalysis, as well as the inspiration behind his most famous characters, including Alexander Portnoy, and his historical novels. The documentary also features insights from such friends as Mia Farrow; literary critic Claudia Roth Pierpont (New Yorker); and writers Jonathan Franzen, Nicole Krauss and Nathan Englander.

A profile of Mel Brooks, the comic mastermind behind such classics as "Blazing Saddles" and "Young Frankenstein." Featured are remarks from friends and associates, including Matthew Broderick, Nathan Lane, Cloris Leachman, Carl Reiner and Joan Rivers, as well as archival comments from his wife of 41 years, Anne Bancroft (1931-2005).

A profile of Billie Jean King, who won 39 Grand Slam tennis titles; helped form a precursor to the WTA Tour; founded the Women's Sports Foundation and Women's Sports magazine; cofounded World TeamTennis; and defeated Bobby Riggs at a much-ballyhooed "Battle of the Sexes" match in 1973. The documentary includes remarks from past and current tennis stars Margaret Court, Chris Evert, Maria Sharapova, and Serena and Venus Williams; Riggs' son Larry; Hillary Clinton; and Gloria Steinem.

A profile of Jimi Hendrix (1942-70), featuring footage from the 1968 Miami Pop Festival, home movies and remarks from family, friends and fellow musicians, including Paul McCartney; band members Noel Redding, Mitch Mitchell and Billy Cox; sound engineer Eddie Kramer; Steve Winwood; Vernon Reid; Billy Gibbons; Dweezil Zappa; and Dave Mason.

A profile of composer Marvin Hamlisch (1944-2012), featuring remarks from family and such friends as Barbra Streisand, Carly Simon, Steven Soderbergh, Quincy Jones, Tim Rice, Christopher Walken, Joe Torre, Woody Allen, John Lithgow and Ann-Margret. Among his credits: the hits "The Way We Were" and "Nobody Does It Better"; and the scores for "The Sting," "Sophie's Choice" and the Broadway smash "A Chorus Line."

Featuring never-before-seen photographs, personal stories and moments from J.D. Salinger’s (1919 -2010) life and harrowing service in World War II, Salerno’s new director’s cut expands his intimate portrait of the enigmatic author of The Catcher in the Rye. Included are his relationship with Oona O'Neill, WWII experiences, and involvement with younger women - including writer Joyce Maynard. The documentary features archival footage and photos; and remarks from friends, colleagues and such admirers as John Cusack and Philip Seymour Hoffman.

A profile of writer Alice Walker, the first African-American woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction (for her 1982 novel "The Color Purple"). Included: remarks from Walker; Danny Glover; Quincy Jones; Sapphire; Steven Spielberg; and Howard Zinn. Filmmaker Pratibha Parmar’s new documentary tells Walker’s dramatic life story with poetry and lyricism, and features new interviews with Walker, Steven Spielberg, Danny Glover, Quincy Jones, Gloria Steinem, Sapphire and the late Howard Zinn in one of his final interviews.

An exploration of the environmental movement from the 1960s through 2009. Included: the battle in the 1960s to block dams from the Grand Canyon; the Love Canal scandal of the 1970s; Greenpeace's efforts to save whales and baby harp seals; the global resource crises of the 1980s; and the 25-year effort to address climate change. Narrators include Robert Redford, Meryl Streep, Ashley Judd, Van Jones and Isabel Allende.

Profiling George Plimpton (1927-2003), whose exploits in participatory journalism led to such fun reads as "Paper Lion" (about how he tried out for the Detroit Lions) and "Out of My League" (about his stint pitching to baseball all-stars). He also edited the literary journal Paris Review; hung out with U.S. presidents; and served as the Big Apple's (unofficial) fireworks commissioner. The documentary includes archival footage; and remarks from such notables as Robert Kennedy Jr. and Hugh Hefner.

Tanaquil Le Clercq (1929–2000) was a star ballerina with the New York City Ballet who greatly influenced choreographers George Balanchine (her husband) and Jerome Robbins (her friend). Filmmaker Nancy Buirski spotlights Le Clercq’s ballet career, influence on dance, and her struggle with polio, which paralyzed her at the height of her fame.

A profile of photographer Dorothea Lange (1895-1965), who captured iconic images of the Great Depression, Dust Bowl and WWII Japanese-American internment camps, by her granddaughter (and acclaimed cinematographer) Dyanna Taylor. The personal documentary incorporates family memories, journals, photos and film footage; interviews and vérité sequences of Lange at her Bay Area home studio, circa 1962-1965; and insights from family, friends and colleagues.

American Masters – Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work takes the audience on a year-long ride with Joan Rivers in her 76th year of life; it peels away the mask of an iconic comedian, laying bare both the struggle and thrill of living life as a groundbreaking female performer. The film by Ricki Stern and Annie Sundberg premieres September 23, 2014 at 10:30 pm on PBS (check local listings).

From the time of its birth, the baby boomer generation (1946-1964) has significantly and uniquely changed our world. 2014 marks an important shift in American culture, as the last boomers turn 50. American Masters: The Boomer List, tells the story of this influential generation through the lives of 19 iconic boomers—one born each year of the baby boom:

Bing Crosby (1903-77) is remembered via home movies, Dictabelt recordings, photos and insights from wife Kathryn, daughter Mary and sons Harry and Nathaniel. He scored nearly 400 hit singles, including the classic "White Christmas"; and appeared in such popular films as "White Christmas" and "Going My Way." The profile details the allegations of abuse leveled against him by son Gary (1933-95); and explains how his beloved duet with David Bowie on "Little Drummer Boy-Peace on Earth" came about.

This portrait of the inimitable magician Ricky Jay delves into the mysterious world of sleight-of-hand and its small circle of eccentric devotees. Jay is also a best-selling author, historian, actor and a leading collector of antiquarian books and artifacts. Told largely in Jay’s own distinctive voice, the documentary traces the story of his achievement and that of other master magicians.

Unprecedented access to Wilson’s theatrical archives, rarely seen interviews and new dramatic readings bring to life his seminal 10-play cycle chronicling a century of African-American life. Wilson won two Pulitzer Prizes for Drama.

A profile of legendary violin virtuoso Jascha Heifetz (1901-87), featuring remarks from violinists Itzhak Perlman, Ivry Gitlis and Ida Haendel; former students Ayke Agus and Sherry Kloss; and biographers John Anthony Maltese and Arthur Vered.

Delving into the rich history of one of the world’s preeminent ballet companies, Ric Burns combines intimate rehearsal footage, virtuoso performances and interviews with American Ballet Theatre’s key figures.

One of the biggest American bestsellers of all time, To Kill a Mockingbird (1960) was thought to be the first and only novel by Harper Lee. However, on July 14, 2015, Go Set a Watchman was released, featuring characters from Lee's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. Newly updated version of Mary McDonagh Murphy’s 2012 documentary, Harper Lee: Hey, Boo.

This is the story of Althea Gibson (1927-2003), a truant from the rough streets of Harlem, who emerged as the unlikely queen of the highly segregated tennis world in the 1950s. She was the first African American to play and win at Wimbledon and the U.S. Nationals (precursor of the U.S. Open) — a decade before Arthur Ashe. Interviewees include Wimbledon champion Dick Savitt and Billie Jean King.

An exclusive interview with Mexican-American photographer Pedro E. Guerrero explores his life and work. He collaborated with iconic American artists of the 20th century -- architect Frank Lloyd Wright and sculptors Alexander Calder and Louise Nevelson -- and became one of the most sought-after photographers of the “Mad Men” era.