As we reflect on the past year, a selection of remarkable feature-length pieces shines. These pieces delve into intricate topics ranging from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal sagas.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on power. While many of his writer peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. This prompts a pressing query: Has he turned into an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole path out of prison was to enlist in the regime forces. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers might still cost him his life.
The Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as radically rewriting the narrative of our human race. But, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing heated controversy has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Leader's Curious Record on International Law
A great many followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording raises difficult questions: Is this person truly a new person, and is the filmmaker's own methods?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest hours, people turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Iconic Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an effective medical solution – until potentially now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideology influence the uppermost levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable background, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they began to become suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has risen as a key actor on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are driving this ambitious project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Global Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts 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 betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the exact nature of the events is still somewhat unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed huge amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the reality that their islands may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still hoped his life might turn around. I was sadly wrong.
A Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the secret to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
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