As we look back on the previous year, a selection of outstanding feature-length pieces stands out. These accounts delve into complex themes from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to deeply personal journeys.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with biting critiques on autocratic rule. While many of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It raises a pressing query: Has the author turned into an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only route out of incarceration was to join the regime forces. Following 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still get him killed.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally re-writing the story of our species. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing intense controversy has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the the nation's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses thorny questions: Is she really a new person, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
A Man Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest times, families turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Iconic Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an consistent medical solution – until potentially now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the uppermost echelons of the state.
The English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp intellect and impeccable credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get uneasy.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly wealthy country has become a significant player on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the exact story of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered enormous sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the reality that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The critical question is: To where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then hoped his situation could change for the better. I was tragically mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might hold the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful narratives
