As we consider the past year, a curated list of remarkable feature-length pieces stands out. Such narratives explore intricate topics from political machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
The Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on autocratic rule. Although numerous of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the nation, he still move millions of copies. It poses a pressing query: Has the author turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole route out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could now put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally re-writing the narrative of our species. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing bitter argument has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing breadth of exploitation it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on International Law
Many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film featuring a remorseful master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks difficult questions: Is this person genuinely a new person, and is the filmmaker's own methods?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their stickiest moments, people turn to him to restore peace.
Can an Iconic Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious funding and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent medical end – until possibly now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the very highest levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and flawless credentials, it's understandable that affluent clients trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get wary.
The Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy country has become a significant player on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the precise truth of the events remains partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed enormous sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life might improve. I was sadly wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might possess the secret to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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