THR's Women in Entertainment 2012: Power 100

With hundreds of documentary films under her belt at HBO, Nevins, 73, is considered one of the most influential people in documentary film -- ever. Her productions have been recognized with 47 Emmy Awards and 21 Academy Awards. Some of the films gaining attention this year include Matthew Akers’ Marina Abramovic: The Artist Is Present, Liz Garbus’ Love Marilyn, Alex Gibney’s Mea Maxima Culpa: Silence in the House of God and Rory Kennedy’s Ethel.

Who gave me my first big break: Myself. I didn’t get breaks. I just plowed through.

When I leave work each day, I can’t wait to: Come back the next day.

Favorite way to unwind on the weekend: Screen other people’s documentaries. I don’t garden. I just want to make that clear.

My indulgence: Getting my hair blown dry more often than I should.

Can’t get through my workday without: Feeling grateful. I’m happy to be in a place I want to be and doing what I want to do.

What I’d tell my 22-year-old self about working in Hollywood: “Don’t take crap.”

Top three shows on my DVR: Homeland, Boardwalk Empire and Downton Abbey.

Worst advice I’ve ever gotten: “Dress like a man at work so they’ll accept you.”

Click here to read THR's complete Women in Entertainment list.