As we look back on the previous year, a curated list of exceptional feature-length stories emerges. These accounts explore multifaceted topics including geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the nineties with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. Although many of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the country, he continues to move millions of copies. It poses a pressing query: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only way to escape incarceration was to join the government military. After 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters could now get him killed.
The Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely re-writing the story of our human race. But, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing intense argument has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the shocking scale of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many followers expected that the prime minister would restore the the nation's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a remorseful master criminal as she records corrupt clients with covert recording raises complex questions: Is this person truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest times, individuals depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Iconic Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an reliable medical remedy – up until potentially now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings influence the very highest echelons of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and impeccable credentials, it's little wonder that affluent individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they began to become wary.
A Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Center
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a significant force on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the exact story of the procedures remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed enormous sums of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the prospect that their islands may soon cease to exist. The pressing question is: To where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his situation might improve. That hope was sadly mistaken.
A International AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could possess the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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