As we reflect on the past year, a selection of exceptional feature-length stories stands out. Such narratives explore intricate topics ranging from political machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human sagas.
A Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to move millions of books. This raises a key query: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole path out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. Following fourteen long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as completely rewriting the history of our human race. But, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the appalling extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
Many supporters expected that the prime minister would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. However, the performance over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks difficult questions: Is this person genuinely changed, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest times, families rely on him to restore order.
Can an Famous Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an effective treatment end – until possibly now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the uppermost levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and sterling reputation, it's understandable that wealthy clients entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get wary.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a key force on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up View at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties became public, there was widespread outrage. But the exact story of the events is still somewhat contested.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the possibility that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his life might change for the better. That hope was sadly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may hold the secret to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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