While we consider the previous year, a selection of exceptional feature-length stories stands out. Such pieces explore multifaceted subjects including political machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly human journeys.
A Enigmatic Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with sharp satires on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of copies. This poses a pressing question: Has he turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers may now put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally rewriting the story of our human race. However, some scholars was in agreement. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the shocking extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Curious Record on International Law
A great many voters hoped that the prime minister would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the performance over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A documentary following a remorseful fraudster as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording poses thorny queries: Is she really a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging moments, families turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it restore its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment solution – until possibly now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas influence the uppermost echelons of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and sterling credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become wary.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly wealthy country has transformed into a major player on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. What are behind this ambitious project?
A Inside View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the exact truth of what happened remains partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away huge amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the possibility that their islands may soon be submerged. The critical question is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still hoped his situation might turn around. I was tragically misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may hold the secret to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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