While we look back on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional feature-length stories shines. These pieces explore multifaceted subjects including geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
A Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing satires on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. It raises a pertinent query: Has he become an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only path to escape prison was to join the government military. After fourteen long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might still get him killed.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was proclaimed as completely re-writing the story of our species. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing intense controversy has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Numerous voters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the record over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A film following a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording asks difficult questions: Is this person really reformed, and what are the director's own intentions?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest times, people rely on him to bring back order.
Can an Famous Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent medical end – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideas shape the very highest levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp mind and flawless credentials, it's understandable that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get suspicious.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a key actor on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
An Inside View at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the precise truth of what happened is still partially unclear.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and showered huge amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the reality that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life could improve. I was tragically misplaced.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might possess the secret to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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