As we consider the past year, a curated list of remarkable feature-length stories emerges. These pieces explore complex themes including geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on autocratic rule. While several of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still sell vast numbers of books. This raises a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole route out of prison was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Our Earliest Origins
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as completely rewriting the narrative of our human race. But, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the shocking scale of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Numerous voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's commitment to human rights. However, the track record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A film following a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is she genuinely a new person, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest moments, individuals rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Iconic Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an effective treatment remedy – up until potentially now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the uppermost levels of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his keen intellect and sterling reputation, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become wary.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Mediation Center
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key actor on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the full nature of what happened is still partially shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the possibility that their islands may soon cease to exist. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his life might turn around. I was tragically mistaken.
A International AI Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he could hold the answers to which nation wins the global AI race.
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