As we look back on the year gone by, a assortment of remarkable feature-length pieces emerges. Such accounts delve into intricate themes ranging from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Country
An author rose to fame in the nineties with sharp critiques on power. Whereas several of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This poses a pertinent query: Has he become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only route out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still cost him his life.
The Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was heralded as completely rewriting the narrative of our human race. But, a faction was persuaded. The resulting heated controversy has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking scale of abuse it had committed.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. However, the performance over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A documentary featuring a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is she genuinely reformed, and is the director's own motives?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging moments, individuals turn to him to restore order.
Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained funding and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an effective medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his teachings shape the highest echelons of government.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his sharp mind and impeccable credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they began to get suspicious.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly wealthy country has transformed into a key actor on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
A Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the precise story of the events remains partially shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and showered huge sums of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the prospect that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life could turn around. I was tragically misplaced.
A Global AI Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might hold the secret to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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