As we consider the year gone by, a assortment of outstanding feature-length stories shines. Such pieces delve into intricate themes including political machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly personal stories.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
An author gained prominence in the nineties with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he still sell millions of copies. This raises a pertinent question: Has the author become an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole path out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might now put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as completely changing the history of our human race. But, a faction was persuaded. The resulting intense scholarly debate has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the appalling scale of exploitation it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Curious Record on Human Rights
A great many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A documentary tracking a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is she genuinely reformed, and is the director's own methods?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest times, families rely on him to bring back order.
Will an Iconic Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it restore its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent treatment solution – until possibly now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the highest levels of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant mind and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get wary.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has become a major player on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
An Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense outrage. But the exact story of the events is still somewhat contested.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the possibility that their islands may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his situation might change for the better. I was sadly wrong.
A International AI Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might possess the secret to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
