A video from the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Washington DC offers biomedical researchers a view of the peer-review process in grant applications. The NIH's Center for Scientific Review (CSR) released 'The NIH Peer Review Revealed' (see http://go.nature.com/UJfkfi) on 16 June. It shows how the agency assesses the more than 80,000 grant applications it receives each year. “Peer review is a black box and can be intimidating,” says Don Luckett, CSR communications director. “When you see the process on video, it comes alive.” The 15-minute clip shows actual reviewers analysing a mock application and covers changes to the grant system such as a shortened application. The video, with a companion piece called 'NIH Tips for Applicants', replaces an earlier version.