Upon reflect on the past year, a curated list of remarkable feature-length stories emerges. These accounts delve into multifaceted topics from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
A Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with biting critiques on authoritarianism. While several of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the nation, he still sell millions of books. It poses a pressing query: Has he turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. After 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could still cost him his life.
The Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely re-writing the narrative of our species. However, a faction was convinced. The resulting heated scholarly debate has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the disturbing breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
Many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a remorseful con artist as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is this person really reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their most challenging moments, people turn to him to bring back peace.
Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment end – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the uppermost levels of government.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen mind and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become wary.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly wealthy country has become a major player on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious role?
An Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the full story of what happened remains partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered huge sums of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the possibility that their home may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to go?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his life might change for the better. That hope was sadly misplaced.
The Global AI Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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