Upon reflect on the previous year, a selection of outstanding feature-length pieces shines. These narratives delve into multifaceted topics ranging from political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
The Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the nineties with biting commentaries on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his literary peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It prompts a key question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only route out of prison was to enlist in the government military. Following fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now get him killed.
A Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally rewriting the history of our species. But, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent intense controversy has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the shocking extent of mistreatment it had committed.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on International Law
Many supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to human rights. But, the performance over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording poses complex questions: Is she really a new person, and what are the director's own methods?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – it all. In their darkest moments, people turn to him to bring back order.
Will an Famous Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an effective medical remedy – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the very highest levels of government.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp mind and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get wary.
The Small Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key player on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to deal with a certain former American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread outrage. But the precise truth of the procedures is still somewhat unclear.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and showered enormous sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the possibility that their islands may soon be submerged. The critical question is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
When I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his life might turn around. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The Global AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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