Upon look back on the year gone by, a curated list of remarkable feature-length pieces stands out. These narratives explore intricate subjects from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with sharp satires on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he still sell millions of copies. This raises a pressing question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. Following fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might still put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as completely rewriting the story of our human race. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing intense controversy has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing extent of exploitation it had committed.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on International Law
Numerous followers expected that the prime minister would restore the the nation's commitment to human rights. Yet, the performance over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording raises difficult questions: Is this person genuinely a new person, and what are the director's true intentions?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging hours, families turn to him to restore normalcy.
Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an reliable treatment remedy – up until possibly now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology shape the very highest echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his keen mind and flawless background, it's little wonder that wealthy clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become uneasy.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly wealthy country has risen as a significant force on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
An Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain former US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread shock. But the exact nature of the events is still partially shrouded.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away huge amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the possibility that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The critical question is: To where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his life might turn around. That hope was tragically wrong.
The International AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he may possess the key to who wins the global technological rivalry.
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