Upon look back on the previous year, a selection of outstanding feature-length stories shines. These accounts probe multifaceted topics ranging from political machinations and historical revelations to deeply personal stories.
The Puzzling Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with scathing commentaries on power. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to move millions of books. This poses a pressing question: Has the author evolved into an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might still get him killed.
The Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally re-writing the narrative of our species. Yet, a faction was convinced. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Sect 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 shocking breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Statesman's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many voters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A film tracking a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises thorny questions: Is she really a new person, and is the director's own intentions?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest times, individuals turn to him to restore normalcy.
Can an Famous Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an reliable medical end – up until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas shape the very highest levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his keen mind and sterling credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become uneasy.
The Tiny State That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An incredibly rich Gulf state has transformed into a major player on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. What are behind this unprecedented role?
A Inside View at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to handle a particular former American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the exact nature of what happened is still somewhat contested.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed vast amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the reality that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his life might turn around. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could hold the answers to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
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