As we consider the previous year, a curated list of exceptional feature-length stories emerges. Such pieces explore multifaceted subjects from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human sagas.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
An author became known in the nineties with biting satires on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to move millions of copies. It raises a pressing query: Has he turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole path out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might now put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as completely changing the story of our species. However, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent bitter argument has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the shocking extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Statesman's Curious Record on International Law
Many supporters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to human rights. But, the performance over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A film following a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording asks thorny questions: Is she really a new person, and what are the director's true motives?
The Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – it all. In their stickiest moments, individuals rely on him to bring back order.
Can an Iconic Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it repair its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable treatment remedy – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings influence the highest echelons of the state.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp mind and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become suspicious.
The Small Nation That Became the World's Mediation Hub
An astonishingly rich country has transformed into a key force on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
A Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the exact nature of the events is still partially contested.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed enormous sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the reality that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still hoped his life could improve. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The International AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he could hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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