While we look back on the past year, a curated list of outstanding feature-length stories stands out. Such pieces delve into intricate themes from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human sagas.
The Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he still sell millions of books. This raises a pertinent query: Has the author become an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only way to escape incarceration was to join the regime military. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could now cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the narrative of our human race. However, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on International Law
Many supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A film tracking a repentant fraudster as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks complex questions: Is she really reformed, and is the filmmaker's own methods?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging hours, people depend on him to restore order.
Can an Famous Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent treatment end – until possibly now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas influence the very highest echelons of government.
The British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get wary.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly rich Gulf state has become a major force on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a particular former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the full nature of what happened remains somewhat contested.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away huge amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the prospect that their home may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to go?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his situation might turn around. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
A Global AI Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may hold the secret to who wins the global technological rivalry.
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