As we consider the previous year, a selection of remarkable feature-length pieces stands out. These pieces delve into intricate subjects from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human sagas.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. While many of his writer peers have faced censorship or fled the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. It raises a key query: Has he evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route out of prison was to join the government military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Dispute Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as radically rewriting the story of our species. However, a faction was convinced. The resulting heated argument has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the appalling extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Puzzling Record on International Law
A great many followers hoped that the prime minister would renew the Britain's dedication to international law. Yet, the track record over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A film tracking a repentant con artist as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses complex queries: Is she truly reformed, and is the director's true motives?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest moments, families depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Iconic Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent medical end – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the highest levels of the state.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp mind and flawless credentials, it's understandable that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Then they began to become uneasy.
The Small State That Became the World's Mediation Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a key actor on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was immense anxiety. But the full truth of the events remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in slime, two days underground – and distributed huge sums of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the reality that their homeland may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then believed his life could improve. I was sadly misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may possess the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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