Upon look back on the year gone by, a curated list of remarkable feature-length stories emerges. These pieces explore complex subjects ranging from political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
The Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. While several of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the country, he still move millions of copies. This poses a pertinent question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole path out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. After fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still get him killed.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally re-writing the history of our human race. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting intense controversy has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the appalling breadth of exploitation it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on International Law
Many followers hoped that the prime minister would renew the the nation's dedication to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks thorny queries: Is this person truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging hours, families rely on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Famous Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it repair its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an effective medical end – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the very highest levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp mind and flawless reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become suspicious.
The Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly rich country has become a key player on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?
An Close-Up View at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a particular former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the exact story of what happened remains somewhat contested.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away enormous amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the reality that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his life might improve. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could hold the secret to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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