While we look back on the previous year, a assortment of remarkable feature-length stories emerges. Such pieces explore intricate subjects from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal journeys.
A Mysterious Author and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with biting critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. This poses a pressing question: Has he become an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole way to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. After 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still cost him his life.
A Bitter Dispute Over Our Earliest Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically rewriting the story of our species. But, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the shocking breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Curious Record on International Law
A great many supporters expected that the prime minister would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses thorny queries: Is this person truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's own methods?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest hours, individuals rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's premier museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent medical end – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the very highest echelons of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant intellect and flawless reputation, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key actor on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular former American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense shock. But the precise nature of the procedures remains partially shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed enormous sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the possibility that their home may soon cease to exist. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his life might improve. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he may possess the answers to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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