Upon look back on the previous year, a curated list of remarkable feature-length pieces emerges. These pieces explore complex themes from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
The Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with biting critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his writer peers have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It poses a pressing question: Has he evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as completely rewriting the narrative of our human race. However, not everyone was convinced. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the disturbing scale of exploitation it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Curious Record on International Law
Numerous voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to international law. However, the record over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A documentary featuring a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is this person really a new person, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging moments, individuals depend on him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it repair its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an effective medical solution – until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings influence the very highest echelons of the state.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen mind and impeccable background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become wary.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has transformed into a significant actor on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?
A Close-Up View at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to deal with a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the exact truth of what happened remains partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the prospect that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still believed his life might turn around. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may hold the key to who prevails in the global AI race.
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