Upon look back on the year gone by, a selection of outstanding feature-length pieces emerges. Such pieces delve into complex subjects including geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
The Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing satires on power. Whereas several of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. This poses a key query: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only way to escape prison was to join the government military. After 14 years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could now put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as completely re-writing the history of our species. However, a faction was convinced. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing extent of exploitation it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Many voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. However, the performance over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A documentary tracking a remorseful fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the director's true methods?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their darkest hours, families depend on him to restore order.
Will an Famous Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an reliable medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings influence the very highest levels of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant mind and sterling background, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become uneasy.
The Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly rich country has become a key force on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain former US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: 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 ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was widespread outrage. But the full story of the procedures remains partially contested.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered enormous sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the possibility that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: To where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life might change for the better. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may possess the key to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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