As we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of outstanding feature-length stories shines. Such pieces explore intricate themes from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
A Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on autocratic rule. While numerous of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to move millions of books. It poses a pressing question: Has the author become an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole path out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers may now cost him his life.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as radically rewriting the narrative of our human race. However, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting intense controversy has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the shocking breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Curious Record on Human Rights
Numerous supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A film following a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording raises thorny queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest times, families depend on him to bring back peace.
Can an Famous Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an reliable treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the very highest levels of the state.
The British Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his keen intellect and sterling background, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become suspicious.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a major force on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious project?
An Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the full nature of the procedures remains somewhat contested.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the prospect that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his situation might change for the better. That hope was sadly wrong.
A International AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could possess the secret to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
