As we consider the past year, a selection of exceptional feature-length stories shines. These accounts explore complex themes from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human sagas.
The Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. While numerous of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still sell millions of books. This raises a key question: Has he evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally re-writing the narrative of our human race. But, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing breadth of mistreatment it had committed.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
A great many voters hoped that the prime minister would renew the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses thorny questions: Is she really reformed, and what are the director's true intentions?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest hours, people rely on him to bring back order.
Will an Renowned Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable medical end – until possibly now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the very highest echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become uneasy.
The Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly rich country has become a major force on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
A Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the exact story of the procedures is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away vast sums of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the possibility that their islands may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life might change for the better. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he could possess the answers to who wins the global AI race.
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