While we reflect on the past year, a selection of remarkable feature-length stories stands out. Such narratives delve into intricate subjects including political machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
The Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on power. Although many of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he still move vast numbers of copies. It raises a key query: Has the author evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still cost him his life.
The Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was heralded as completely changing the history of our species. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the disturbing extent of abuse it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Many supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A film featuring a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks difficult questions: Is she really a new person, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest hours, individuals depend on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it salvage its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment end – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the uppermost echelons of the state.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen mind and sterling credentials, it's little wonder that affluent individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they began to become uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key force on the world stage, working to solve some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the full truth of the events remains somewhat unclear.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed vast sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the possibility that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then hoped his life could change for the better. I was devastatingly mistaken.
A Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may hold the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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