While we reflect on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional feature-length pieces shines. Such pieces probe complex themes including geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human sagas.
A Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his literary peers have faced suppression or left the nation, he still sell millions of books. This poses a key query: Has he become an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path out of incarceration was to join the regime forces. After 14 years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might now get him killed.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as radically rewriting the story of our species. But, a faction was in agreement. The resulting intense argument has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Curious Record on International Law
Many followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's commitment to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises thorny queries: Is she really a new person, and what are the director's true methods?
A Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging moments, individuals depend on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's leading museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment end – until possibly now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the highest levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his keen mind and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that affluent clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to become wary.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key force on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to manage a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the precise story of what happened is still partially unclear.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed enormous sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The critical question is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life could turn around. I was tragically wrong.
The Global AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may hold the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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