While we consider the previous year, a curated list of exceptional feature-length stories shines. Such pieces explore intricate themes from political machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
The Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with sharp critiques on power. Although numerous of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It prompts a pressing question: Has he evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole route out of prison was to enlist in the regime military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically re-writing the story of our human race. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting heated controversy has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the appalling scale of exploitation it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Curious Record on Human Rights
Numerous supporters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the the nation's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A documentary tracking a repentant fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks difficult questions: Is she really reformed, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their most challenging moments, people turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Famous Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an consistent medical remedy – until potentially now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of government.
The British Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his keen mind and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get wary.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has risen as a major force on the international scene, working to solve some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious project?
A Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a particular former US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
An End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the precise nature of what happened is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away enormous sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the reality that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his situation could change for the better. That hope was sadly mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could hold the answers to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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