This film explores the lives and careers of the 2009 Nobel Prize winners and their reaction to being awarded the highest honor in their respective fields. Featuring interviews with the Nobel Laureates themselves, and their friends, family and academic peers, the documentary provides an insight into what makes a Nobel Laureate, and also helps understand the significance of their work, which has changed the lives of millions of people. A record five women have been honored by the Nobel committees in 2009, and 76-year-old Elinor Ostrom makes history by being the first woman to win the Economics Prize. The controversy of the Nobel Peace Prize is also addressed, as Barack Obama's colleagues, opponents and admirers discuss the significance of awarding him the Peace Prize so early in his Presidency.