As we look back on the past year, a selection of outstanding feature-length pieces emerges. These accounts delve into intricate subjects including political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
A Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. While several of his writer peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he still move millions of copies. This prompts a pressing question: Has he evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only path out of incarceration was to join the government forces. After fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers might still cost him his life.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically changing the narrative of our human race. But, some scholars was in agreement. The resulting intense scholarly debate has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking extent of exploitation it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law
Numerous supporters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she records unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras asks complex queries: Is this person really reformed, and is the director's own motives?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging times, individuals turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Iconic Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, difficult funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an consistent treatment remedy – until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his teachings shape the uppermost levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp intellect and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get wary.
A Small Nation That Became the World's Mediation Center
An incredibly rich country has risen as a major player on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular former American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the precise nature of what happened is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and showered vast sums of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the prospect that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: Where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his situation could change for the better. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might hold the answers to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
