As we consider the year gone by, a selection of exceptional feature-length pieces shines. These accounts delve into complex subjects ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to deeply personal stories.
The Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on power. While many of his writer peers have encountered suppression or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It poses a key question: Has he turned into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path out of incarceration was to join the government forces. After fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still get him killed.
A Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally rewriting the story of our human race. However, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Numerous voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A film following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks difficult queries: Is this person really reformed, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest moments, families turn to him to restore normalcy.
Can an Iconic Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology influence the highest echelons of government.
The British Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp intellect and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly rich country has transformed into a major force on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious role?
An Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to manage a particular former US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the precise story of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the possibility that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his situation might change for the better. That hope was sadly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may hold the secret to who wins the global AI race.
The finest narratives
