As we consider the year gone by, a assortment of exceptional feature-length pieces emerges. These accounts explore intricate themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal stories.
A Enigmatic Author and the Conscience of a Country
An author became known in the nineties with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. While several of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the country, he still sell millions of copies. This poses a pertinent query: Has the author evolved into an defender for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only route out of incarceration was to join the government forces. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers might now cost him his life.
A Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the narrative of our species. But, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the disturbing extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Curious Record on Human Rights
Many voters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the the nation's dedication to international law. However, the performance over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording poses thorny queries: Is this person genuinely changed, and what are the director's true intentions?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their most challenging hours, individuals turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable medical solution – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the highest echelons of the state.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get suspicious.
The Small State That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has transformed into a key player on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented project?
A Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a certain former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense shock. But the precise nature of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed vast sums of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the possibility that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The critical question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his situation might improve. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he might possess the answers to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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