As we consider the past year, a curated list of outstanding feature-length stories shines. These accounts probe intricate themes from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human stories.
The Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he still move vast numbers of copies. It prompts a pressing question: Has the author turned into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only route out of prison was to join the government forces. After fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could now cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as radically re-writing the story of our human race. However, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent intense argument has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing scale of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Curious Record on International Law
Many followers anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant fraudster as she records unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises complex queries: Is she truly a new person, and what are the director's own methods?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – everything. In their darkest hours, people turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Iconic Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an effective treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen intellect and sterling credentials, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they began to become wary.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key actor on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up View at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to handle a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense outrage. But the exact story of the events remains partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered huge sums of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the reality that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to go?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his situation might change for the better. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
The International AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he could possess the secret to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
