As we look back on the previous year, a assortment of outstanding feature-length pieces shines. Such narratives delve into intricate themes from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human stories.
The Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the nineties with biting critiques on autocratic rule. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. This poses a key question: Has the author evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only way to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might still cost him his life.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as radically rewriting the story of our species. However, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing intense controversy has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Curious Record on Human Rights
A great many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's commitment to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A documentary tracking a remorseful con artist as she records corrupt individuals with covert recording raises thorny queries: Is this person truly changed, and is the director's own motives?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their most challenging moments, people rely on him to bring back peace.
Can an Famous Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an reliable medical end – until potentially now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the highest echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and impeccable credentials, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become wary.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a significant force on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this ambitious project?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did 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 Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
A Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the precise truth of what happened is still somewhat unclear.
A "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and given away vast sums of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the possibility that their islands may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to go?
A Tragic Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life could change for the better. I was tragically wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might hold the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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