Upon look back on the year gone by, a selection of outstanding feature-length stories stands out. These narratives explore intricate topics including political intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly human stories.
The Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Country
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp satires on autocratic rule. Although many of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he still move vast numbers of books. This poses a pressing query: Has he become an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now cost him his life.
The Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically rewriting the narrative of our species. But, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing bitter controversy has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the disturbing breadth of abuse it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Numerous followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A film following a remorseful con artist as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises difficult questions: Is this person genuinely reformed, and what are the director's true methods?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest moments, families turn to him to bring back order.
Will an Renowned Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective treatment remedy – until possibly now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the uppermost levels of the state.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant mind and sterling reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get wary.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An incredibly rich country has risen as a major player on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. What are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular former US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the full story of the procedures remains partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered enormous sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the reality that their home may soon cease to exist. The critical question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life could turn around. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could possess the secret to which nation wins the global AI race.
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