As we reflect on the past year, a assortment of outstanding feature-length stories shines. Such pieces probe complex themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal sagas.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to move millions of copies. It raises a key question: Has the author become an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only way to escape prison was to join the government military. Following fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the story of our human race. Yet, a faction was convinced. The resulting heated argument has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the appalling breadth of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Curious Record on Human Rights
Many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the UK's dedication to international law. Yet, the record over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording poses thorny queries: Is this person really reformed, and is the director's true motives?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – everything. In their most challenging times, families turn to him to bring back peace.
Will an Renowned Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an effective treatment remedy – until possibly now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the uppermost levels of government.
The British Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp intellect and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that affluent individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to become uneasy.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a significant player on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented project?
An Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain former American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
The Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was immense outrage. But the precise nature of the events remains partially contested.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and showered huge amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the reality that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness
As I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still hoped his life might change for the better. That hope was sadly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could possess the secret to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
