While we reflect on the past year, a selection of remarkable feature-length stories shines. These accounts delve into multifaceted subjects ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human sagas.
The Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on power. Although many of his writer peers have faced suppression or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It raises a pertinent question: Has he become an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole way to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as radically rewriting the story of our species. But, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking breadth of abuse it had carried out.
A Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law
A great many supporters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to human rights. But, the performance over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is this person genuinely a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest hours, families rely on him to restore order.
Will an Renowned Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it salvage its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent treatment solution – up until possibly now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the uppermost levels of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable background, it's no surprise that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get uneasy.
A Tiny State That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has become a significant player on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact truth of the events remains partially shrouded.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed enormous amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the prospect that their home may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his life could improve. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
The International AI Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may hold the key to who wins the global technological rivalry.
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