As we consider the previous year, a curated list of exceptional feature-length stories shines. Such narratives delve into intricate themes from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with sharp satires on authoritarianism. Although many of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he still sell millions of copies. This poses a key question: Has he become an defender for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was told that his sole way out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. Following fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's fighters may still get him killed.
A Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically changing the history of our human race. However, some scholars was in agreement. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing scale of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A documentary following a repentant fraudster as she records corrupt clients with covert recording poses thorny queries: Is she truly a new person, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest times, people rely on him to bring back order.
Will an Iconic Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, strained finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an effective treatment remedy – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the very highest echelons of government.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp mind and sterling credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to get suspicious.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a major actor on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise nature of the events is still partially unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his life might change for the better. I was sadly mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may hold the secret to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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