While we reflect on the past year, a curated list of exceptional feature-length pieces emerges. These pieces delve into multifaceted themes including political machinations and historical discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on power. Although many of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It raises a pressing question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could now get him killed.
A Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as radically rewriting the story of our species. However, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent intense argument has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Hid 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 abuse it had committed.
The Statesman's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's commitment to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film featuring a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is this person really a new person, and is the director's own intentions?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest hours, people depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Renowned Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, strained finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable treatment solution – until potentially now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get uneasy.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has become a significant force on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the precise nature of the procedures remains somewhat contested.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the reality that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his situation could improve. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may possess the key to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
