Upon look back on the past year, a curated list of exceptional feature-length pieces stands out. These narratives explore multifaceted themes from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with scathing satires on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It poses a pressing question: Has he become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only path out of prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers might now get him killed.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was heralded as completely changing the history of our human race. But, a faction was convinced. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the appalling scale of exploitation it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on International Law
A great many supporters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A documentary following a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras asks thorny queries: Is this person truly a new person, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
A Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest moments, individuals turn to him to restore order.
Will an Iconic Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an effective medical end – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the highest echelons of the state.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get uneasy.
The Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An incredibly rich Gulf state has transformed into a key player on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious project?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a particular former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Global Development Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense shock. But the full nature of what happened is still partially unclear.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed enormous amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his life could change for the better. I was devastatingly mistaken.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could possess the key to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
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