As we reflect on the past year, a curated list of outstanding feature-length stories emerges. Such narratives delve into multifaceted topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. While several of his writer peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he still move millions of copies. This raises a pertinent question: Has he become an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only route out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. After fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers may still get him killed.
A Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as radically changing the history of our species. But, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the appalling extent of exploitation it had carried out.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Numerous followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses thorny questions: Is she really reformed, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest moments, individuals turn to him to restore peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective medical solution – up until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology shape the uppermost echelons of the state.
The British Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant mind and sterling reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become uneasy.
A Small State That Became the World's Mediation Capital
An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a key force on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. What are fueling this ambitious project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the full story of the events is still partially contested.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, two days underground – and showered vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the reality that their homeland may soon be submerged. The critical question is: Where are they going to go?
One Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his situation might change for the better. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may possess the answers to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful narratives
