Hype: The Obama Effect

Delving beneath the hype of Barack Obama's historic bid for the U.S. presidency, this documentary takes a close look at Obama's work in the Illinois state senate, his record in the U.S. Senate and his words on the campaign trail. Featuring interviews with numerous Washington insiders, media experts and politicians, the film scrutinizes Obama's record on taxes, immigration, energy, health care, abortion, foreign policy, Iraq and more.

Directed by Alan Peterson, Hype: The Obama Effect leans on a strong ensemble — John Bolton, Tucker Carlson, Barack Obama — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 2008.