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Upon consider the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding feature-length stories emerges. These pieces explore complex subjects from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to deeply personal journeys.

A Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Nation

An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It prompts a key query: Has the author turned into an defender for the establishment?

Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War

The story of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole path to escape prison was to join the regime forces. Following 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters might now cost him his life.

The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings

The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally changing the story of our species. However, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing heated controversy has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.

The UK Cult That Hid in Plain Sight

Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the appalling extent of mistreatment it had carried out.

The Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law

A great many voters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the the nation's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.

Breaking a Country's Myth

A film tracking a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is she truly reformed, and is the director's own intentions?

The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Stains

From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their darkest hours, people rely on him to restore peace.

Can an Famous Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?

Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's leading museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?

Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy

Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an effective treatment remedy – up until possibly now.

The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics

A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the highest levels of government.

An British Professional With a Dishonest Side

With his brilliant mind and sterling credentials, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become suspicious.

The Tiny Nation That Became the World's Mediation Capital

An astonishingly rich Gulf state has become a key player on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?

A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry

Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.

During the Trial of a Tragic Story

What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?

An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning

When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.

A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women

When information about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was immense shock. But the precise nature of what happened is still partially contested.

The "Master" of the Online Age

He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away huge sums of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?

Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean

With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the prospect that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?

One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness

When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his life might change for the better. I was sadly mistaken.

The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection

In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may possess the answers to which nation wins the global AI race.

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