While we look back on the past year, a selection of exceptional feature-length pieces stands out. These narratives explore intricate subjects from political intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly human stories.
A Enigmatic Author and the Conscience of a Country
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with sharp critiques on power. While many of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. It raises a pressing question: Has the author become an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only way out of prison was to enlist in the government military. After 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still cost him his life.
A Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically changing the history of our species. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the disturbing breadth of abuse it had carried out.
A Leader's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Many supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording poses complex questions: Is this person truly a new person, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging moments, people rely on him to bring back order.
Can an Famous Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it repair its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an effective treatment solution – until potentially now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideas influence the highest echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that affluent clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get suspicious.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An incredibly wealthy country has transformed into a major force on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise story of what happened is still somewhat unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed huge amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the reality that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his situation might turn around. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might possess the answers to who wins the global AI race.
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