While we look back on the past year, a assortment of remarkable feature-length stories emerges. Such accounts probe multifaceted themes from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply personal stories.
The Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the nation, he still sell millions of copies. It prompts a pressing query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only path to escape incarceration was to join the regime military. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers might still put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as fundamentally rewriting the history of our human race. Yet, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the appalling breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on International Law
A great many voters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to human rights. However, the record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is she genuinely a new person, and is the director's own methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest moments, people rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Famous Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent medical solution – until possibly now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the highest levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get suspicious.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major player on the world stage, working to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise story of the procedures is still somewhat contested.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and distributed vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the reality that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they going to go?
One Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life might turn around. I was tragically misplaced.
A Global AI Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could hold the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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