Upon look back on the year gone by, a selection of exceptional feature-length stories shines. These pieces probe complex subjects from political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal sagas.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing critiques on power. Whereas many of his writer peers have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still sell vast numbers of copies. This raises a key question: Has the author become an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was told that his sole way out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following fourteen long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Dispute Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely changing the story of our species. But, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A film featuring a remorseful master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous clients with covert recording asks complex questions: Is she truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's true intentions?
A Man Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their stickiest moments, people rely on him to bring back peace.
Can an Famous Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an effective treatment solution – until potentially now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas shape the uppermost echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and flawless background, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major player on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to manage a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the full story of the procedures is still partially unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered vast sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the prospect that their home may in the near future be submerged. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his situation could turn around. I was sadly mistaken.
The Global AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the secret to who wins the global technological rivalry.
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