As we consider the past year, a selection of remarkable feature-length pieces shines. Such pieces explore intricate subjects ranging from political machinations and historical discoveries to deeply personal stories.
The Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with biting commentaries on power. While many of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he still sell millions of copies. This raises a pertinent query: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as radically re-writing the story of our human race. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent bitter argument has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing scale of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
Numerous voters expected that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A film featuring a remorseful master criminal as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is she truly a new person, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging times, people rely on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Renowned Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an consistent treatment remedy – until potentially now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideology shape the very highest echelons of the state.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen mind and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a key player on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are behind this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a certain former US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
An End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread shock. But the precise story of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away enormous sums of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the prospect that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his situation might turn around. I was tragically wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might possess the secret to who wins the global technological rivalry.
The finest stories
