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Carl Sagan: A Cosmic Celebrity (1997)
Character: Self
Carl Sagan did more to popularize science than any man on the planet, sharing his wonder and fascination with the mysteries of the universe with millions. He was the rarest of all creatures: the celebrity scientist. While some accused him of being a grandstander, none can deny that his approach to science helped introduce millions of people to the great wonders of the universe that fascinated him all his life. Carl Sagan played many roles: professor, working scientist, bestselling author and TV personality. In his classic television series, he brought science to the masses in an accessible, entertaining format. But he also performed groundbreaking research in astronomy, and was willing to risk his reputation to investigate the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Explore the remarkable life of this visionary scientist from his childhood to his death from bone marrow disease at 62.
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Independence Day: The History of the Fourth of July (1997)
Character: Host
Describes the events of July 4, 1776; early celebrations of the day; and the symbols, patriotic music, fireworks, monuments and statues associated with this holiday. Shows celebrations of the holiday both past and present. The power of this holiday, its patriotism, hometown pride and national unity is just as strong today as it was in 1776.
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Marijuana Country - the Cannabis Boom (2014)
Character: Reporter
Colorado became the first state in the United States to legalize the sale of recreational marijuana. Now that it has been nearly a year, CNBC takes a look at some of the statistics and numbers behind the booming pot industry.
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Fannie's Last Supper (2010)
Character: Self
"Fannie's Last Supper" reveals the origins of American cooking and explores how the culinary expert Fannie Farmer sowed the seeds of the modern food revolution.
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Katharine Hepburn: On Her Own Terms (1996)
Character: Self - Narrator (voice)
Four-time Oscar-winner Katharine Hepburn called herself a "personality" as well as an actress, and rightfully so. This biography chronicles her life as an independent woman and legendary actress, from her childhood to her passionate relationships. Brought to light are thoughts on Howard Hughes, John Ford and longtime companion Spencer Tracy. Her story comes to life through rare home movies, screen tests, movie outtakes and interviews.
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Christmas Unwrapped: The History of Christmas (1997)
Character: Narrator (voice)
Christmas abounds with traditions, from neighborhood carolers to lovingly decorated trees, but from where did all these rituals emerge? This enlightening program looks at the origins of the Western world's most popular Christmas traditions -- from the significance of December 25th and its relationship to winter solstice to the enchanting legend of Santa Claus and Prince Albert's 1841 unveiling of the Christmas tree.
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Vivien Leigh: A Delicate Balance (2000)
Character: Self - Host (voice)
Explores the many facets of Vivien Leigh's life and performances through rarely-seen home movies, personal photographs and interviews with her family and friends. An episode of A&E Biography, a series that recounts the life stories of various historical figures and celebrities.
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The Haunted History of Halloween (1997)
Character: Host / Narrator (voice)
The origins of Halloween are explored in this engrossing program on the subject. A ghoulish array of costumes, make up, and decoration descend on communities every year on October 31st, but few people are aware of how the celebration came to exist. Harry Smith attempts to get to the bottom of the mystery in THE HAUNTED HISTORY OF HALLOWEEN, which delves into the 3,000 years of hoopla that traditionally unfolds when October comes around. As the history is explained, so are various failed attempts to co-opt the festival by various religious groups; but the most compelling revelation is how little the festival has changed over the centuries. A marvelous way to gain a historical perspective on this entertaining holiday, Smith's program is almost as fun as carving a pumpkin, donning a spooky costume, and undertaking a little trick or treating!
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Eat That Question: Frank Zappa in His Own Words (2016)
Character: Self (archive footage)
Utilizing potent TV interviews and many forgotten performances from his 30-year career, we are immersed into Frank Zappa’s world while experiencing two distinct facets of his complex character. At once Zappa was both a charismatic composer who reveled in the joy of performing and, in the next moment, a fiercely intelligent and brutally honest interviewee whose convictions only got stronger as his career ascended.
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Landslide: A Portrait of President Herbert Hoover (2009)
Character: Self - Narrator (voice)
Documentary about personal life of Herbert Hoover's and his governmental career, profiles the former head of state's political philosophy, memorable election campaigns, Great Depression policies and more. Through interviews with scholars such as David Kennedy, Robert Reich and Tim Egan, this biography sheds new light on the underappreciated president's difficult tenure and enduring legacy.
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