As we look back on the year gone by, a curated list of remarkable feature-length pieces stands out. These narratives explore multifaceted themes from political machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply human sagas.
The Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or left the country, he continues to move millions of copies. This prompts a pertinent question: Has he turned into an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might still put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as completely changing the story of our species. But, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent intense controversy has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing extent of exploitation it had carried out.
A Statesman's Puzzling Record on International Law
Many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's commitment to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording asks complex questions: Is she truly reformed, and what are the director's own intentions?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest times, families depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an effective medical remedy – up until potentially now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology shape the very highest levels of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant mind and sterling background, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become uneasy.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a significant actor on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are fueling this ambitious role?
An Close-Up View at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
A Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the full truth of the events is still somewhat contested.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the possibility that their home may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: To where are they going to go?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then thought his life might turn around. I was tragically mistaken.
The International AI Race and a Key Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might hold the answers to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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