While we reflect on the previous year, a curated list of outstanding feature-length pieces stands out. These narratives delve into complex themes ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
A Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing satires on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It prompts a key query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Our Earliest Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had committed.
A Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights
Numerous followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to human rights. However, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A documentary following a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses complex queries: Is this person really changed, and what are the director's true methods?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – everything. In their darkest times, individuals depend on him to restore order.
Can an Iconic Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an effective treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology shape the uppermost echelons of government.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless background, it's little wonder that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Until they began to become wary.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key actor on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this ambitious role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the exact story of what happened remains partially shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed huge amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the reality that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical question is: Where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his life could improve. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may possess the answers to who wins the worldwide AI race.
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