Upon reflect on the past year, a selection of remarkable feature-length pieces stands out. Such accounts probe complex topics including geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on power. Although many of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to sell millions of copies. It prompts a pertinent question: Has the author turned into an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only way out of prison was to join the regime military. After fourteen long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now get him killed.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as completely changing the story of our species. However, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the disturbing extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Curious Record on International Law
Numerous supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the Britain's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film tracking a repentant fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording poses thorny queries: Is this person really changed, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging hours, people turn to him to bring back peace.
Will an Iconic Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective treatment end – up until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the very highest echelons of government.
The British Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant intellect and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get wary.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An incredibly wealthy country has become a significant player on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious role?
An Inside View at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to handle a particular former US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense shock. But the full story of what happened remains partially shrouded.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away enormous sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the prospect that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then hoped his life might turn around. That hope was sadly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he could hold the secret to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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