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Upon consider the previous year, a assortment of exceptional feature-length stories stands out. These narratives explore multifaceted themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly human sagas.

The Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Nation

Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with biting satires on power. While several of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. This raises a pertinent question: Has he become an defender for the establishment?

Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict

The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only path out of prison was to join the regime forces. After fourteen long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might still put him in mortal danger.

A Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins

The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely rewriting the story of our human race. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent intense argument has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.

A British Religious Group That Operated in the Open

Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the shocking scale of abuse it had perpetrated.

The Prime Minister's Curious Stance on Human Rights

Many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.

Challenging a Country's Myth

A film tracking a remorseful con artist as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks thorny queries: Is this person truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?

A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Scenes

From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest times, people rely on him to restore peace.

Can an Iconic Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?

Beset by restitution claims, strained funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?

More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Condition

Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective medical solution – until possibly now.

A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government

A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the very highest levels of government.

The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side

With his brilliant intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become uneasy.

The Tiny Nation That Became the World's Mediation Hub

An extremely rich country has become a major actor on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?

An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry

Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.

During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case

What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?

The End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Mourning

When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.

A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women

When details about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the precise nature of the events is still partially contested.

A "Master" of the Attention Economy

He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and distributed huge amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?

Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean

With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the reality that their home may in the near future be submerged. The critical question is: Where are they going to relocate?

One Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness

When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his life could turn around. I was devastatingly wrong.

The International AI Race and a Crucial Defection

In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the key to who prevails in the global AI race.

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