D.A. Pennebaker is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of cinema verite filmmaking. Since 1977, Pennebaker has partnered with Chris Hegedus to create a number of acclaimed films such as THE WAR ROOM, which received the D.W. Griffith Award for Best Documentary of the Year and an Academy Award nomination, and most recently STARTUP.COM. In addition, Pennebaker and his collegues at Drew associates developed the first fully portable 16mm synchronized camera and sound system, and established what became known as cinema verite. Documentary filmmaker Chris Hegedus has created a number of highly esteemed films along with partner D.A. Pennebaker. The pair have produced a number of acclaimed films including the Academy Award nominated film THE WAR ROOM and the documentary feature KINGS OF PASTRY, which was praised at film festivals world wide. Chris was also awarded the prestigous 'Directors Guild of America Award for Outstanding Directorial Achievement' for Startup.com.