While we reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of remarkable feature-length pieces stands out. Such narratives probe multifaceted themes ranging from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human stories.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing satires on power. Although many of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It prompts a pressing question: Has he become an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now get him killed.
The Fierce Dispute Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as completely re-writing the narrative of our species. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The resulting intense controversy has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing extent of mistreatment it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on International Law
Numerous followers anticipated that the prime minister would restore the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses difficult questions: Is she genuinely changed, and is the director's true intentions?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their most challenging times, people depend on him to bring back peace.
Will an Iconic Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an consistent medical remedy – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the uppermost levels of government.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp intellect and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get wary.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key actor on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. What are driving this ambitious role?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to manage a particular former US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the precise truth of what happened is still partially shrouded.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and showered huge amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the prospect that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his situation could turn around. That hope was sadly mistaken.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he may hold the key to who wins the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
