Upon look back on the year gone by, a selection of remarkable feature-length pieces shines. Such pieces delve into complex subjects ranging from political machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply human journeys.
A Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. Although numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to move millions of copies. This poses a pertinent query: Has he become an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole way out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now cost him his life.
A Bitter Argument Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as completely re-writing the history of our species. Yet, a faction was convinced. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the shocking breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous followers expected that the prime minister would restore the Britain's dedication to human rights. However, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A film following a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses difficult queries: Is she really changed, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest times, people rely on him to restore order.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious funding and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
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 treatment end – until possibly now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas permeate the uppermost levels of the state.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen intellect and sterling background, it's no surprise that affluent individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they started to get uneasy.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has become a key force on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to manage a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the precise truth of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away enormous sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the prospect that their islands may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his situation might change for the better. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
A Global AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might possess the key to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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