As we consider the year gone by, a selection of outstanding feature-length stories stands out. Such accounts probe intricate subjects from political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly human stories.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. While several of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This poses a key query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only way to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now get him killed.
The Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely changing the history of our species. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing intense controversy has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Curious Record on International Law
Numerous voters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the the nation's commitment to human rights. However, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks thorny queries: Is this person really reformed, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
The Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging hours, people rely on him to bring back order.
Will an Iconic Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent medical solution – until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen mind and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get wary.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has become a significant force on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense shock. But the full nature of the procedures remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away enormous amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the prospect that their islands may soon cease to exist. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to go?
One Sorrowful Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his situation might change for the better. I was devastatingly wrong.
A Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could possess the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful narratives
