As we look back on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional feature-length stories emerges. Such accounts delve into complex themes from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
A Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with biting satires on autocratic rule. Although several of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It prompts a key question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only way to escape incarceration was to join the government forces. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters might still put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as completely rewriting the history of our species. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing heated argument has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the appalling extent of abuse it had carried out.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on International Law
A great many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the UK's dedication to international law. But, the record over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a repentant master criminal as she records unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras asks complex questions: Is this person really a new person, and is the filmmaker's own methods?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest moments, people rely on him to bring back peace.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained funding and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the highest echelons of government.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant mind and sterling background, it's understandable that affluent individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become wary.
The Small Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a key force on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented project?
An Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to handle a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the full story of what happened is still partially contested.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered vast sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the prospect that their islands may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his life might improve. I was tragically misplaced.
The Global AI Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might hold the secret to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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