Upon consider the year gone by, a curated list of remarkable feature-length pieces stands out. These accounts probe complex subjects ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
The Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. This raises a pressing question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route to escape prison was to enlist in the regime military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might now put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was heralded as completely rewriting the narrative of our human race. However, a faction was convinced. The ensuing heated controversy has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the disturbing scale of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Numerous supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant fraudster as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks complex questions: Is she really a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest hours, families turn to him to bring back peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an effective treatment end – up until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the highest levels of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his sharp mind and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become wary.
The Small Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a significant force on the world stage, working to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?
A Inside View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a particular former US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the exact truth of the events is still partially shrouded.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away huge amounts of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the reality that their islands may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his life might change for the better. That hope was sadly mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could hold the key to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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