As we reflect on the past year, a curated list of remarkable feature-length stories stands out. These pieces explore intricate topics ranging from political machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly human stories.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on power. Although several of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or left the country, he still move vast numbers of copies. It prompts a key query: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole route to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. After fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still get him killed.
The Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically rewriting the narrative of our human race. But, a faction was persuaded. The resulting bitter controversy has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the disturbing breadth of exploitation it had committed.
The Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law
A great many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. Yet, the performance over the past year has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording poses complex queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest hours, people depend on him to restore peace.
Can an Famous Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it repair its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment solution – up until potentially now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
An British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his sharp mind and sterling background, it's little wonder that affluent individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get wary.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a key actor on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious role?
An Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the exact story of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away huge sums of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the possibility that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his situation could change for the better. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
The Global AI Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could hold the secret to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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