While we look back on the previous year, a curated list of exceptional feature-length stories stands out. Such narratives probe complex themes including geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human journeys.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the nation, he still sell vast numbers of books. This prompts a pressing question: Has he turned into an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. After fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters may now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as radically changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The resulting heated scholarly debate has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had committed.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on International Law
A great many voters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the performance over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A film following a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording poses thorny queries: Is this person truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging hours, families depend on him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the uppermost echelons of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant intellect and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Mediation Center
An incredibly rich Gulf state has transformed into a major force on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this unprecedented project?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the full truth of what happened is still partially contested.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and given away huge sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the prospect that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life could improve. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
The Global AI Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he could possess the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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